By Debby von Winckelmann
Ready or not, it’s time.
The 2015 Women’s World Cup has started and there’s no more time for the Americans to try to create chemistry or work out the kinks. It’s time to score. It’s time to win.
Over the past few months, we have seen the USWNT go from a disappointing loss to France, to steadily improving, overcoming obstacles and injuries, and winning.
But, then last week’s scoreless tie against the 18th-ranked Korea Republic has resurfaced doubts about the ability and readiness of the Americans to bring home the World Cup trophy. With all the talk about this team’s depth and number of quality forwards, the US women simply haven’t done a good job of finishing their opportunities and putting the ball in the net.
Alex Morgan could make a huge difference for the US on the front line, but we haven’t seen much of her lately, as she has been out of action with a bone bruise in her left knee. Morgan is expected to be able to return to play for the tournament, but won’t immediately be at full strength, according to head coach Jill Ellis. So, expect to see Sydney Leroux pairing with Amy Rodriguez and Abby Wambach for most of the minutes in group play, as Morgan gets back up to speed.
The US midfield, and especially, Lauren Holiday, has been criticized for not having an effective holding midfielder. Holiday, however, has great playmaking skills, and works especially well with her FC Kansas City teammate Rodriquez. Christen Press and Megan Rapinoe could have a big impact for the US, but Rapinoe needs to stay healthy and Press, despite a few moments of brilliance, simply hasn’t had her breakthrough yet. Carli Lloyd is also likely to start at midfield, and can score from distance.
The strongest point for the US right now is a solid defense. Anchored by goalkeeper Hope Solo, who boasts the US women’s national team record in shut-outs with 84, the Americans have allowed just two goals in their last nine games. Ellis has consistently started Ali Krieger, Julie Johnston, Becky Sauerbrunn, and Meghan Klingenberg.
The Americans will take on tenth-ranked Australia on Monday at 4:30 PT for their first match in Group D – labelled the “Group of Death.”
Hopefully, today’s questionably-timed release of news regarding Solo’s domestic violence arrest last year won’t distract from the task at hand.
