Several Orlando Pride players were busy on the international stage recently.
Alex Morgan and Ashlyn Harris were on hand for the United States’ 1-0 victory over Portugal on Thursday. Morgan came on at halftime and had several looks at goal -- including a sharp-angle shot off the post -- as she approaches 100 career international goals. Morgan is three goals away from her centennial. Harris was available on the bench.
The U.S. looked comfortable in the first of two friendlies during the international window. The Americans broke through in the 42nd minute when Jessica McDonald put away a rebound on her initial shot. The U.S. returns to action on Tuesday against Scotland in Glasgow.
Shortly before U.S.-Portugal, England took on Austria. Pride forward Chioma Ubogagu made her England debut and scored her first international goal in the 26th minute, which ended up being the game-winner. Ubogagu played 59 minutes as the Lionesses went on to take a 3-0 victory.
England hosts Sweden on Sunday.
The U.S. and England are two of 18 teams that have already qualified for next year’s World Cup in France. Six spots remain to be clinched to round out the 24-team field.
International games continue this week, with Alanna Kennedy, Emily van Egmond and Australia taking on Chile on Friday. Kickoff is scheduled for 11:30 p.m. ET in Penrith. Monica, Camila, Poliana and Brazil face France on Saturday in Nice.
