The USWNT have seemed like the team that can win the 2019 Women’s World Cup. They have made history in their first match embarrassing Thailand 13 to 0. Their second opponent Chile gave them a run for their money as the USWNT scored all their goals in the first half. In the second half, the Chilean goalie was near excellent, yet the US still won 3 to 0. Now the USWNT faces Sweden who seems like a team similar to Chile that can give the US a difficult time. No disrespect to any teams in the tournament, but both teams haven’t faced anyone of their caliber. However, to counter-argue that Chile came close as they lost to Sweden and the US by three goals or less. Don’t be surprised if Chile is one of the third-place teams that advances.
USWNT Faces Sweden
Sweden can be the first team to score a goal against the USWNT in this tournament. Don’t be surprised if the USWMNT loses to Sweden and takes second place in their group. This game can be a game that keeps the USWNT on their toes. Hence, why this game so far will be their toughest test. The US shouldn’t think any less of it. They should be ready and play as if it is a knockout match. Also, no matter the outcome of the match both teams are advancing to the knockout stage. This game is to decide who they play in the next round. The winner of this game will play Spain in the next round. Then the loser of this game will play the second place team of Group E, which will either be Canada or the Netherlands.
USWNT Depth
The good news for the USWNT is they are one of a few teams who have depth on their roster at all positions. For the most part, almost every player on the roster contributed in their first two victories. Not only do they have depth, but they also have skill and chemistry. Every player plays well with each other, which helps in critical game situations. This means that the USWNT is in shape as well.
Keys to Victory
If the USWNT wants to defeat Sweden and win their group here is what they must do. First, they need to control the tempo of the game. They can do this by having the most possession of the soccer ball. Secondly, they need to take a high percentage of strikes at the goal. Thirdly, they need to make wise passes that lead to the high percentage strikes on goal. Lastly, they need to be physical against Sweden fighting for the 50/50 balls and then on the counters use their speed.
USWNT X-Factors
Christen Press is the player who has been the X-Factor for the USWNT in the group stage and for me, she still is for the match against Sweden. Her decision making along with her speed is what helps the US score goals or make plays that lead to goals scored. In addition, expect Tobin Heath to use her height to make an impact on the game. Lastly, two players that are defenders that will make an impact are Crystal Dunn and Becky Sauerbrunn. They both are physical to get the ball from Sweden, then have the speed, and skill to move the ball across midfield and make plays for their teammates.
Knockout Stage Bracket Not Complete Yet
The 2019 FIFA Women’s World Cup has had some dramatic finishes to games and if they haven’t reached the knockout stage yet. They are only in the group stage. Furthermore, only some of the bracket is filled out. Why is this you ask? It’s because of the crazy endings to games and not all matches are finished. All teams are waiting to see the results of the final matches of the group round to see if they will advance or not.
