Authored by Michael Saunders
USA vs Colombia: Thoughts on First Game Match, Jan 18, 2021 There was no doubt that the USWNT would have an easy time of their match against the 26th ranked FIFA Women’s National Team in Colombia. Indeed, the final score of 4-0 does not reflect the dominance by the “Stars & Stripes” over “Las Cafeteras”. The basic stat sheet says it all: USA/Colombia
Shots: 22/0 Shots on target: 11/0 Saves: 0/7 Corner Kicks: 5/2 Fouls: 11/11 Offside: 4/2 Possession: 64%/36% In a nutshell, the US scored quickly in both halves placing Colombia on the back foot. They had difficulty dealing with the US high press throughout. The midfield of S. Mewis, Horan & Ertz, followed by the subs K.Mewis & Lavellein the second half, simply controlled the match. All goals were scored by the “Mewii” sisters!! Sam with a natural “hat trick” in the 4th, 33rd & 46th (PK) minutes followed by Kristie’s late one timer in the second half. The defense was hardly tested with Naeher only touching the ball sporadically. The three stars of the match were: #1 Sam Mewis demonstrating that playing for Manchester City has sustained her deserved US Player of the Year 2020; # 2 Carli Lloyd who came off knee surgery to play her first match providing two excellent assists only stifled by the Colombian GK Sepulveda from scoring a few times; and #3 Lindsey Horan whose skills and soccer acumen was a pleasure to watch. Besides the fact that this was the first match of 2021, the game was significant in that this began the internal competition for players seeking to make the limited Olympic roster later this year. Consequently, there were questions regarding the possible makeup of the team from Rapinoe’s & Lloyd’s return playing & compounded.
by their age, to how some of the “newbies” would fare should they be given the opportunity on the pitch; as well as some of the familiar “on the bubble players” that have made the roster in previous years. Quick notes: (1) Both Lloyd & Rapinoe played well but the “rust” was evident which is not surprising. Vlatko commented that he was very satisfied with their performances, emphasizing Lloyd’s energy for the full 90 minutes and the ease by which she found space to always pose a threat against the opponent. She had six (6) opportunities to score; that is most important. The goals will come. (2) What became apparent was the fact that our forwards failed to score although there were many opportunities. Hopefully when Morgan returns as the primary striker, she will provide that threat. (3) Macario made her debut. She showed signs of her potential and certainly was confident on the ball. Despite the understandable hype, Colombia was not a true test. We’ll see how she fares against a Top 10 opponent. (4) I am a fan of Lynn Williams above and beyond her speed. She may not be as clinical in her finish as one would like, but she has demonstrated her ability to create havoc and find scoring opportunities thereby forcing teams to adjust to her. Nevertheless, her performance yesterday was one to forget. (5) Kristie Mewis made her case once again that she deserves a spot on the team. Fortunately, the US has a large pool. Position versatility will be the key for players to be consider with the limited Olympic roster. (6) Many pundits have rightfully criticized the poor crosses made by the team. Too many lofty floaters or a pass backs to a trailer when a fast-paced ground, dipping or curving crosses would be more effective.
Contributed by Michael Saunders