Looking to challenge themselves during the winter FIFA window, the United States Women’s National Team has scheduled a pair of matches in Europe. This afternoon’s takes them into very hostile territory when they face England in Wembley Stadium, a battle between the two top ranked women’s teams.
This won’t be the same USWNT that won Olympic Gold this summer. Triple Espresso, the attacking trio consisting of Trinity Rodman, Sophia Smith, and Mallory Swanson, are not participating in this camp. All three are getting over injuries and being given time to rest. Coach Emma Hayes continues to rely on youth in her rosters and has called up Alyssa Thompson, Emma Sears, and Ally Sentnor, among others, to take on the attacking burden.
The Lionesses should be closer to full strength, with a roster featuring the likes of Alessia Russo, Beth Mead, and Mary Earps. Having failed to qualify for the Olympics, this will only be England’s fifth match this year, so Sarina Wiegman’s side will be well-rested, if nothing else. Esme Morgan was included in the squad for the second time since her move to the Washington Spirit, giving her an opportunity to square off against teammates Casey Krueger and Hal Hershfelt, both playing for USA.
This series is also notable for being the final international window for longtime US goalkeeper Alyssa Naeher. How Hayes will balance these matches between celebrating Naeher and getting some minutes for newbies Mandy Haught and Phallon Tullis-Joyce will be one of the biggest stories to watch.
USA vs. England
Advertised Kick-off Time: 12:20 p.m. Eastern, 9:20 a.m. Pacific
Venue: Wembley Stadium, Wembley, England
Available TV: TNT (English), Telemundo (Spanish)
Available streaming: Max, Peacock
USWNT starting lineup: https://www.ussoccer.com/stories/2024/11/usa-vs-england-starting-11-usa-lineup-today-team-notes
Naeher is in goal, and Casey Krueger starts!
0-0 at half, and that’s not disappointing against a strong opponent who are playing in a partisan fortress.
England pressing high in the 2nd half so far.
I agree with VAR calling for a review there. That would’ve been harsh.
So far, the backlines for both teams have been sharper and more connected than the front lines
0-0 to finish. Disappointing not to see a goal, but the defensive units balled out.
Some observations:
On offense decent showings for Thompson, Sears, Ryan et al but lacked The Triple Expresso Magic needed against a top flight opponent
Lucy Bronze and Mary Sears showed why they are considered among the world’s best. Naomi Gorman is still #1 though.
The battles between Bronze and our own Casey Krueger were epic.
That’s Girma.