US to Clash with Portugal as Women's World Cup Future Remains Uncertain
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| US to Clash with Portugal as Women's World Cup Future Remains Uncertain (Image Source: apnews.com) |
In Auckland, New Zealand, the United States finds itself in the midst of uncertainty surrounding its team tactics as it approaches the last group match at the Women's World Cup.
U.S. coach Vlatko Andonovski made a notable decision by fielding the identical lineup against Netherlands on Thursday, the same one used in the opening match against Vietnam, which resulted in a convincing 3-0 victory.
However, the strategy didn't yield the desired outcome against the formidable Dutch opponents, leading to a frustrating 1-1 draw.
Of significance is the fact that this particular lineup had never had the opportunity to play together prior to the World Cup, adding an element of unpredictability to their performance on the field.
The draw result has left the United States in a position where they must aim for a more definitive victory in their upcoming match against Portugal on Tuesday.
This win is crucial for them to claim the top spot in Group E and ensure a favorable route in the knockout stage. Prior to the match, it wasn't guaranteed that the two-time defending World Cup champions would advance from the group stage, adding even more significance to their clash with Portugal.
Apart from the usual starting lineup, Andonovski made only one change during the match against the Dutch, introducing midfielder Rose Lavelle at the beginning of the second half.
Despite signs of fatigue from some players, no fresh legs were brought in during the game, leaving forwards Lynn Williams and Megan Rapinoe on the bench.
When questioned about this strategy, Andonovski explained, "I didn't want to disrupt the rhythm at that point because sometimes a substitute needs a moment or two to get into a rhythm.
We didn't want to risk anything because I felt all three of our forwards performed exceptionally well, posed a threat, created chances, and were difficult for the opponents to handle."
This marked the first time since 2007 that the United States had made just one or fewer substitutions in a World Cup match.
In 2019, the US team was known for their early attacks in World Cup matches, but they struggled to score against the Dutch until the second half, when they were already trailing 1-0.
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One of the key players, Lavelle, a top midfielder, had a significant impact on the game, injecting energy and supporting the offensive efforts. It seemed like the United States was reminiscent of their championship-winning form from 2019.
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During the 62nd minute, Lavelle delivered a corner kick to Lindsey Horan, who was frustrated after being knocked down by a Dutch player moments earlier, resulting in the game-tying goal.
Lavelle had been dealing with a knee injury leading up to the World Cup and had not played since April. Due to this, she was on a minutes restriction, and the coach, Andonovski, had been starting Savannah DeMelo, one of the 14 players on the team making their first-ever appearance in the World Cup.
DeMelo's first match with the national team was in the send-off game against Wales in San Jose, which took place on the day the team left for the World Cup.
Reflecting on the performance, midfielder Andi Sullivan acknowledged that the team lacked synchronization at times, but they were able to adapt and respond. She hoped that in the future, they could address such challenges earlier in the game. Sullivan also emphasized the strength of the team, which lies in their ability to come together and overcome obstacles in various ways.
Andonovski expressed optimism about the team's performance in the second half against the Dutch in Wellington, highlighting the progress made by the young players throughout the match.
He emphasized that despite the result not being ideal, it was a positive experience for the relatively fresh team that hasn't played together extensively.
Looking ahead, Andonovski believes the second-half performance sets a strong baseline for the team, with expectations of continuous improvement and increased efficiency in future games.
In their previous matches, Portugal suffered a 1-0 defeat against the Dutch in the opening game, but rebounded with a 2-0 victory over Vietnam in Hamilton, eliminating Vietnam from the next round.
Currently, the United States leads Group E, tied on points (four) with the Netherlands, but holding the advantage in goal differential.
Portugal, in third place with three points, has the opportunity to surpass the U.S. in the group standings if they secure a win at Auckland's Eden Park. Prior to that match, the Dutch will face Vietnam in an earlier game on Tuesday in Dunedin.
Telma Encarnacao and Kika Nazareth displayed their brilliance on the field, netting goals in the historic match against Vietnam. The victory marked Portugal's momentous first win in their debut appearance at the World Cup.
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| Image Source: apnews.com |
In anticipation of their upcoming matches, Nazareth emphasized their unwavering focus on their own game, considering it a vital aspect. She conveyed to reporters during their training on Saturday, "Our approach will be to respect our opponents with humility, while retaining our character and individuality.
Hard work and talent form the backbone of our team, and a touch of luck never hurts. We firmly believe in our abilities."
Extensive Women's World Cup Reporting by the Associated Press: https://apnews.com/hub/fifa-womens-world-cup and https://twitter.com/AP_Sports
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