The United States opened its schedule in the 2024 World Lacrosse Women’s U20 Championship with a 33-0 victory over Germany in Hong Kong, China.
The U.S. has won five of the previous seven World Lacrosse women’s junior championships, most recently the U19 championship in 2019, and asserted control early in just its second-ever matchup against Germany. The U.S. beat Germany, 19-5, in the opening game of an eventual run to the gold medal in the 2007 U19 championship in Hannover, Germany.
On Friday, the U.S. won 30 of 34 draws in the game, led by Maddie Epke’s 19, and maintained a dominant advantage in possession time. The U.S. defense had 11 caused turnovers, led by Reagan O’Brien with four, and held Germany without a shot with its relentless pressure. Goalies Shea Dolce and Francesca Argentieri split halves to combine for the shutout.
Offensively, Emma LoPinto scored nine points on four goals and five assists to earn Player of the Match honors. She was one of 16 goal scorers for the U.S., led by Madison Taylor with seven. Haven Dora (3g, 5a) and Madison Alaimo (1g, 6a) also helped generate offense and Caitlin Barrett and Ally Reilly each scored four goals.
The U.S. continues pool play on Saturday against Puerto Rico. The game starts at 8 p.m. local time in Hong Kong and 8 a.m. (Eastern).
