M.A. Vignola Earns First Cap With USWNT

Former Tennessee standout M.A. Vignola earned her first cap for the U.S. Women's National Team as they took a 3-0 victory over South Africa on Thursday, entering the game as a halftime sub in her hometown of Cincinnati, Ohio.

She becomes the first Lady Vol to appear for the USWNT.

"It's exciting for her, and it's exciting for our program. M.A. has been through a lot and to see her come out of it and to get the chance to represent her country is really special," said Tennessee head coach Joe Kirt.

"We're so excited for her and what she's put in. Her journey hasn't always been a straight line, but she's continued to excel and manage whatever comes her way. To have this opportunity at home is so exciting for her. I'm proud of her for the player and person that she's become."

Vignola currently plays for Angel City FC in the NWSL and has started 13 games at defense this season, recording two goals on 20 shots. She previously played professionally for Thróttur Reykjavík and Valur in Iceland.

The Ohio native was a two-time All-SEC performer during her 2016-2019 stay on Rocky Top. She appeared in 59 games, amassing 11 assists and 15 goals, four of which were game-winners. A junior during Tennessee's historic run to the NCAA Quarterfinals in 2018, Vignola finished third on the team with 12 points and played a pivotal role in the UT defense that limited opponents to a program-best 15 goals on the year. As a senior, she averaged 83 minutes per match, racking up nine goals and five assists.

Vignola was active with the U.S. Soccer youth teams, attending nine youth camps and appearing with the U-17 USWNT against Germany. This was her first call-up to the senior U.S. Women's National Team.

The U.S. will face South Africa again on Sunday at 5:30 p.m. ET at Soldier Field in Chicago, Ill.

Players Mentioned

MA Vignola

University of Tennessee Athletics