America Ladies’s Nationwide Group (USWNT) kicked up their two-match pleasant sequence in opposition to Mexico at Crimson Bull Area in Harrison, New Jersey, because the 2024 Olympics loom shut.
When Emma Hayes took over, many puzzled whether or not the workforce’s efficiency would enhance beneath her watch.
This youthful squad nonetheless has an extended technique to go earlier than they will return to their world-beating prowess. Nonetheless, their 1-0 win ought to function some consolation.
The match started with a short defensive section earlier than the Stars and Stripes stepped into an attacking position, creating a number of alternatives.
Nonetheless, Mexico’s quick and bodily play, characterised by a excessive press, thwarted many makes an attempt to play out of the again. Neither workforce was capable of finding the ultimate high quality to complete within the first half, resulting in a scoreless draw at halftime.
The second half mirrored the primary in its tempo and depth. The USWNT continued to generate the lion’s share of probabilities; with a Trinity Rodman deflection going simply huge and Sophia Smith unable to transform in a one-on-one scenario with the goalkeeper.
Mexico, too, pressed ahead however failed to interrupt the impasse.
The breakthrough got here within the 63rd minute with a cool conversion from Smith. Rose Lavelle initiated the play with an extended ball to a sprinting Rodman, who then handed to Mallory Swanson; earlier than Smith obtained the ball within the high nook of the field.
The 20-goal striker took just a few touches earlier than firing her shot into the far nook, scoring the one objective of the match.
USWNT’s struggles and tactical changes
Regardless of the victory, the match highlighted the USWNT’s wrestle to interrupt down La Tri’s excessive press. Stronger opponents may power extra turnovers and capitalize on counter-attacks.
Emma Hayes, a tactician recognized for her strategic depth, is probably going mapping out options to such tactical challenges. Thus, she is doubtlessly counting on huge lengthy balls to bypass a number of strains of protection.
The workforce’s failure to capitalize on probabilities stays a major concern. The ratio of 1 objective from six pictures on the right track out of 17 complete makes an attempt is much from excellent, particularly in event play the place margins are sometimes narrower. Hayes addressed this, saying,
“We actually began the sport rather well so it was a superb depth, nice probabilities. I feel we rushed that play a bit of and [the] intention is sweet. I can’t fault, criticize the gamers for that, nevertheless it’s instructing them the best moments.”
What’s subsequent for Emma Hayes and her gamers?
The USWNT’s subsequent match is on Tuesday, July 16, in opposition to Costa Rica at Washington, D.C.’s Audi Area. This pleasant is essential for refining their ways earlier than heading to the Olympic Video games.
The workforce’s identification has traditionally been tied to an attacking philosophy. Regardless of their current struggles, the 1-0 win over Mexico provided indicators of progress. Hayes is dedicated to making sure her workforce’s assault is multifaceted and tactically versatile, as she famous, “My job is to place us in the absolute best positions and being versatile throughout the recreation.”
Because the workforce continues to fine-tune their methods and construct cohesion, the anticipation for the Olympics grows. The USWNT goals to depart behind their World Cup disappointments and show themselves on the Olympic stage, starting July 25 in opposition to Zambia.
Picture credit score: IMAGO / ZUMA Press Wire
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