There is plenty of hype surrounding Alyssa Thompson, the first overall pick of the NWSL draft who happens to still be in high school.
After just five minutes of her first Angel City FC game, Thompson showed what all the hype is about.
In a preseason friendly against Club América on Wednesday, the 18-year-old picked up the ball 40 yards from goal with several defenders in front of her.
It didn’t matter. Thompson used her speed and close control to blow a hole right through the América defense before rounding the goalkeeper and slotting home the first of what will likely be many goals with her new club.
18 Year Old Alyssa Thompson scored this solo goal 5 minutes into her first pro-game after becoming #1 draft pick
pic.twitter.com/YNEfQXBy7q
— Men in Blazers (@MenInBlazers) March 9, 2023
Though it likely won’t be quite so easy against NWSL defenders, Thompson still showed a breathtaking glimpse of what she’ll bring to Angel City in her rookie season.
“I feel like I’m ready,” Thompson said at the post-game press conference after Angel City won 3-0 at BMO Stadium.
Of the goal, she added: “It definitely helped relax me. I just felt like everything that I prepared for up to this moment has helped me score that goal. It definitely took some weight off my shoulders.”
Thompson has already earned two caps with the senior U.S. national team, entering the NWSL with huge expectations on her shoulders.
For one night at least, Thompson looked like she could not just meet those lofty expectations, but surpass them.
“Her goal she took so coolly, like she had played in a 100 games in this stadium.” Angel City coach Freya Coombe said.
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