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It took just 12 seconds for Carli Lloyd to put her mark on the US Women's National Team's first Olympic qualifier against Costa Rica. As forward Alex Morgan was slashing across the center of the field, Lloyd set her up perfectly with a header in perfect position for Morgan to tap into the net. This was the fastest US goal ever scored! Click HERE to see this great start for the USWNT.
Lloyd also contributed to the match's second goal, sinking a penalty kick in the 9th minute. We are in the midst of witnessing an historic run for Lloyd against international competition, as she now has 20 goals in her last 15 matches.
Goal USA - No. 10 Carli LLOYD @CarliLloyd | @ussoccer_wnt @Fedefutbol_CR #CWOQ2016 https://t.co/k4VTE1vdc8
— CONCACAF (@CONCACAF) February 11, 2016
It's @CarliLloyd's 9th goal in Olympic Qualifying. 83rd career goal. 4th this year. #USAvCRC, 2-0
— U.S. Soccer WNT (@ussoccer_wnt) February 11, 2016The dominating tandem of Lloyd and Morgan connected again in the second half, as Lloyd centered a pass for Morgan, who was able to head the ball past the Costa Rican goalkeeper in the 62nd minute.
Lloyd, who is taking over as captain from the retired Abby Wambach, seemed pleased with the team's performance in the first qualifier for the Rio Olympics, but acknowledged that the team has to keep their eyes on the ultimate goal. The team will face a familiar foe in Mexico on Saturday.
First 3pts ✔️. "Now we have to put this one to bed & focus on the next game against Mexico." - @CarliLloyd pic.twitter.com/9SNUYWCbsv
— U.S. Soccer WNT (@ussoccer_wnt) February 11, 2016