Trinity Rodman made a triumphant return to the U.S. Women’s National Team (USWNT) on Saturday, scoring just five minutes into her comeback to help lift the team to a 2-0 victory over Brazil at a packed SoFi Stadium in Los Angeles. The result marked a confident display for the USWNT as they prepare for upcoming international tournaments, and a personal milestone for Rodman after nearly eight months out due to a back injury.

Back in action for the first time since the gold medal match at the 2024 Paris Olympics also against Brazil Rodman wasted no time in reminding fans of her talent and tenacity. In the fifth minute, Angel City FC’s Alyssa Thompson carved through Brazil’s midfield before threading a precision pass through to Rodman. With signature poise, the forward slipped the ball past the Brazilian goalkeeper to put the U.S. ahead.

It was a moment of relief and redemption for Rodman, whose injury had sidelined her for nearly a year and left many wondering how quickly she would regain her edge. On Saturday, there was little doubt: Rodman looked sharp, composed, and fully reintegrated into a USWNT side that is beginning a new era under head coach Emma Hayes.

Brazil showed their intent to spoil the occasion, mounting sustained pressure for stretches of the first half. Debutant goalkeeper Phallon Tullis-Joyce earning her first cap in front of a home crowd stood tall under pressure, making several key interventions to preserve the lead heading into halftime.

The U.S. sealed the result in the 66th minute after substitute Lily Yohannes charged into the box and drew a foul. Captain Lindsey Heaps, calm as ever, converted the resulting penalty with clinical precision, doubling the lead and putting the match beyond reach.

While the performance as a whole was strong, the spotlight remained firmly on Rodman. Her movement, energy, and confidence drew praise from both teammates and coaches alike.

“She has her own style, and she is very, very unique in the type of player she is,” said Heaps post-match. “So, so happy to have her back.”

The victory was the first of two friendly matches against Brazil, with the second fixture scheduled for April 8 at PayPal Park in San Jose, California. The matches form part of the team’s preparation for a new cycle that includes the 2027 World Cup and the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics.

Rodman's return adds a crucial weapon to the USWNT’s attacking arsenal, and her early goal is a sign of a promising chapter ahead for both player and team.