In a thrilling match at the SheBelieves Cup in Atlanta, 19-year-old Jaedyn Shaw showcased her talent on the field, scoring a crucial goal to help the United States secure a 2-1 victory against Japan in front of a record crowd of 50,644 spectators.
Shaw’s journey from youth soccer at FC Dallas to lining up alongside her role model turned teammate, Mal Pugh, has been nothing short of remarkable. Sporting a hairstyle inspired by Pugh, Shaw made history by becoming the first player in the national team’s history to score in each of her first five starts. With seven goals in her first 11 internationals, Shaw’s impact on the field has been undeniable.
Her goal in the 36th minute, assisted by Sam Coffey, equalized the scoreline and set the stage for the United States’ victory. Shaw’s performance drew praise from her teammates, with US captain Lindsey Horan describing her as a “footballer” with a remarkable blend of physical presence, technical skill, and creativity.
For Shaw, playing alongside her role model Mal Pugh was a dream come true. Despite turning pro with the San Diego Wave FC in 2022, Shaw remains humble and credits her teammates and coaching staff for her development.
Teammate Abby Dahlkemper highlighted Shaw’s undeniable talent and predicted a bright future for the young player. Shaw’s attacking prowess comes at a crucial time for the US team as they prepare for the 2024 Olympics.
Although Shaw had yet to make her US debut during the 2023 Women’s World Cup, her recent performances have put her in contention for future major tournaments. With a competitive selection pool, Shaw’s rise exemplifies the depth and talent of the US women’s national team.
As Shaw continues to make her mark on the field, her journey serves as an inspiration to aspiring young players and a testament to the strength and competitiveness of women’s soccer in the United States.
