Now that the dust has settled in Group E of the FIFA Women’s World Cup 2023, the reigning champions, USA, have qualified for the knockout stages of the tournament. But they have been far from the convincing side we have been previously accustomed too.
After being seeded into a favourable group consisting of Netherlands, Portugal, and Vietnam, with the latter two both making their World Cup debuts, the United States of America stuttered their way over the line, coming second to the Netherlands.
The USA picked up just one win in three games. That being their 3-0 win over Vietnam in their tournament opener. What was to follow were only two further points. A 1-1 draw against the Netherlands, whilst the match with Portugal ended goalless. Just four goals were scored. To put that into comparison with some of the tournament’s other sides, England have netted eight, the Dutch have done one better in nine, whilst Japan put 11 past their group stage opponents. Vlatko Andonovski’s side initially headed into the anticipated 2023 competition as strong favourites, as they set out for a fifth, and back-to-back World Cup victory.
After blowing numerous chances against Portugal in the goalless draw, the question has to be asked. Can the USA score enough goals to go far in this year? 17 chances were created in their final group stage match, but only six were on target. Meanwhile, the champions were lucky to not be booted out the competition as they survived a late Portuguese onslaught to hold on for a draw, thus, progressing them where they needed to go. In the draw with Netherlands, despite Lindsey Horan grabbing an equaliser just past the hour mark, USA spurned 18 chances as only four were on target.
Defending and keeping games tight isn’t a problem for them, it’s being efficient at the other end of the pitch which will cause concern for Andonovski and panic from supporters back home. Because as we all know, this is still a very good side, and I personally, don’t have any doubt that the USA will go far this year. With getting the ball in the back of the net I’m just yet to be convinced if they have what it takes to defend the World Cup.
Comments