NORTH CAROLINA (USA) — The United States' record 13-0 drubbing of Thailand at the Women's World Cup on Tuesday (June 11) did not sit well with everybody, with opinion divided on whether the team should have so mercilessly punished a hapless opponent.

Striker Alex Morgan scored five times as the holders began their World Cup campaign with the largest margin of victory in either the men's or women's World Cup.

The result surpassed Germany's 11-0 win over Argentina in 2007 and almost doubled the US' own previous record — a 7-0 success over Taiwan in 1991.

Former American international Taylor Twellman however criticised the team on social media, believing the side's goal celebrations in Reims were excessive.

"Celebrating goals (like #9) leaves a sour taste in my mouth like many of you. Curious to see if anyone apologises for this postgame," Mr Twellman tweeted to his 327,000 followers.

He was also critical of the US women for showing their hand ahead of games against more formidable opponents.

"Not sure why the #USWNT is 'wasting' any of their set plays when the score is 3-0. Bury (Thailand) then move on but don't use anything that could be needed in future games," he wrote.

Record international goalscorer Abby Wambach, however, defended her former team mates.

"For all that have issue with many goals: for some players this is there first World Cup goal, and they should be excited," the scorer of a record 184 international goals tweeted to her 679,000 followers.

She also questioned whether there was an element of sexism in the criticism.

"Imagine it being you out there," she added.

"This is your dream of playing and then scoring in a World Cup. Celebrate. Would you tell a men's team to not score or celebrate?"

Mr Rob Stone, meanwhile, the host of the Fox Sports World Cup coverage on American television, sided with Mr Twellman.

"This got humiliating at some point. It just became an exercise in target practice," he said. "You know what I wanted to do? Pull it back, knock it around."

Former US international Alexi Lalas, another member of the panel, however, defended the Americans.

"It's not their problem they're playing against a poor team," he said.

"The US team is not here to be anybody's friend. The US team is here to win a World Cup.

"The US team each and every time the whistle blows is going to score as many goals as possible."

In total seven Americans scored during the match, in a performance that is bound to strike fear into all of those teams hoping to end the United States' reign as world champions.

"We did not do enough. They were excellent all around. We don't have any excuse and accept they are better," said Thailand coach Nuengrutai Srathongvian.

The last time the two teams met, the United States won 9-0.

"We have to improve in every aspect," said Ms Nuengrutai. REUTERS