Algarve, Portugal (My Sportsbook) - The U.S. Women's National Team got off to a good start in the opening round of the 2007 Algarve Cup, recording a 2-1 victory against China to open their Group B schedule.

The Americans got goals from Kristine Lilly and Carli Lloyd, who scored the game-winner in the 40th minute.

The United States went ahead after 20 minutes when Abby Wambach carried the ball into the penalty area and was taken down, earning her side a penalty kick. Lilly then stepped to the spot and made no mistake with her chance, finding the side netting to make it 1-0.

China had an answer just minutes later, however. Liu Sa's cross found Han Duan at the far post and she got just enough of her head to the ball to redirect it into the back of the net and even the match at 1-1.

Five minutes before halftime, the Americans went back on top, with Stephanie Lopez feeding Lloyd. The midfielder took the ball and beat her defender before firing a hard shot into the top left corner of the net to put the United States back on top.

China went in search of the equalizer in the second half but keeper Hope Solo's net was never seriously threatened thanks to the back line of Christie Rampone, Cat Whitehill and Tina Ellertson, who made sure the lead held up.

The United States will next meet Finland on Friday in the second of three Group B matches.