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Just when we thought the United States women’s national team’s attack couldn’t get stronger, Emma Sears announced herself with a hat trick against New Zealand on Wednesday during the USA’s 6-0 friendly victory.
Sears, 24, had previously only scored one goal for the USWNT in 10 appearances. On Wednesday she took advantage of being named in head coach Emma Hayes’ starting XI and put on a show for the fans at CPKC Stadium in Kansas City.
Emma Sears hat trick
Emma Sears gives the USWNT an early 1-0 lead.
That back-heel pass in the build up from Lily Yohannes though pic.twitter.com/upqwOD5Sxo— B/R Football (@brfootball) October 30, 2025
Emma Sears with her second vs. New Zealand ✌️ pic.twitter.com/TtotbWgcAM
— B/R Football (@brfootball) October 30, 2025
FIRST HAT TRICK FOR EMMA SEARS pic.twitter.com/GJgAUw7EJF
— B/R Football (@brfootball) October 30, 2025
Sears is the first USWNT player in over three years to net a hat trick. The last to do so was Sophia Wilson against Uzbekistan back in April 2022.
The Racing Louisville forward was in perfect position to capitalize on two great crosses from Michelle Cooper. The duo combined for goals in the 8th and 55th minute.
Sears again found herself in the right place at the right time for her third goal. A Lindsey Heaps header deflected off the post and right to Sears for the tap-in.
Hayes had high praise for Sears’ performance against New Zealand.
“She has an instinct inside the box and a desire to score goals that we can't teach,” Hayes said. “To score a hat trick at the international level is no easy achievement. She is someone who always continues to impress.”
Sears has been excelling in her second NWSL season with Racing Louisville as she hit double-digit goals for the club. She leads the team in scoring as they will look to secure a playoff spot this Saturday.
We wouldn’t bet against Sears finding the back of the net once again.
The USWNT finished the October international break with a 2-1 loss against Portugal, rebounded with a 3-1 victory against Portugal and then finished strong with the 6-0 thrashing of New Zealand.
Up next for the USWNT will be a pair of friendlies against Italy at the end of November.
