Rose Lavelle Scores, USWNT Disappoint Fans in Loss to Portugal as Alex Morgan Honored

The United States women's national team fell 2–1 to Portugal in an international friendly Thursday night in Chester, Pennsylvania.

The lone U.S. goal came from Rose Lavelle just 33 seconds into the match, but after the electric start, the Americans struggled to generate offense for the rest of the game.

Despite the defeat, USWNT legend Alex Morgan was celebrated before kickoff, receiving a standing ovation at midfield in honor of her remarkable career following her retirement last year.

Fans expressed disappointment in the USWNT's loss to Portugal on the same night they celebrated Morgan's illustrious career.

This marked the first of three matches in the USWNT's international window, with a rematch against Portugal set for Sunday, followed by a final matchup against New Zealand to close out the slate on Oct. 29.

Lavelle ignited the U.S. offense with a goal just over 30 seconds into the match, but the Americans were unable to score again as Portugal rallied to take control.

Diana Gomez equalized with a header just before halftime, and Fatima Pinto secured the go-ahead goal in the 72nd minute off a corner kick to seal the USWNT's disappointing defeat.

The USWNT will have a chance at redemption when they face Portugal again on Sunday in East Hartford, Connecticut.