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USWNT Ready to Face New Faces and Make History

By Arthur Fernandes

AUCKLAND, NEW ZEALAND - JULY 21: Alex Morgan #13 of the United States takes a shot during USWNT Training at Bay City Park on July 21, 2023 in Auckland, New Zealand. (Photo by Brad Smith/USSF/Getty Images for USSF).
AUCKLAND, NEW ZEALAND - JULY 21: Alex Morgan #13 of the United States takes a shot during USWNT Training at Bay City Park on July 21, 2023 in Auckland, New Zealand. (Photo by Brad Smith/USSF/Getty Images for USSF). /
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With the 2023 FIFA Women’s World Cup just around the corner, the United States Women’s National Team (USWNT) is embarking on an exciting journey filled with challenges and opportunities. The draw has determined that the Americans will face Vietnam, a tournament newcomer, in their opening match at the historic Eden Park in Auckland/Tāmaki Makaurau, New Zealand.

The choice of Vietnam as the opening opponent is a unique opportunity for the USWNT. It is the first time these two teams will meet in the history of women’s soccer, providing an encounter of distinct footballing cultures. Vietnam, as a World Cup newcomer, will undoubtedly take the field with determination and a thirst to prove their capabilities against the current world champions.

The United States, on the other hand, has a history of impressive performances in the group stage of Women’s World Cups. The undefeated run in their last eight opening matches is a testament to their strength and commitment at the beginning of the tournament. However, the importance of a strong start in this highly competitive edition cannot be underestimated. Furthermore, the presence of experienced players like forward Megan Rapinoe is an asset to the team. With the potential to reach 200 international appearances and her impressive record of goals and assists, Rapinoe is a key figure to inspire and lead the team towards success.

The recently announced final roster, consisting of nine players from the 2019 championship team and 14 World Cup debutants, creates an interesting blend of experience and youth. The ability to mix talent and experience will be crucial in facing the challenges that Portugal, the Netherlands, and Vietnam will present in the group stage. However, it is essential to remember that, despite the USWNT’s victorious tradition, the FIFA Women’s World Cup 2023 will be a high-level competition with talented and motivated opponents. Confidence is required, but it must not blind the team to the importance of intense preparation for each match and facing every opponent with the respect they deserve.

Facing the Netherlands, the 2019 runner-up, and newcomers Vietnam and Portugal makes Group E even more challenging. The ability to overcome these teams will be a true test for the USWNT, but also an opportunity to showcase their quality and strength as a team. The FIFA Women’s World Cup 2023 presents a new format that requires seven matches to win the title. This increase in games adds an additional element of endurance and consistency to the tournament, making the journey towards the trophy even more demanding.

Therefore, as we cheer for the success of the USWNT in this World Cup, it is crucial to balance expectations with a realistic approach. Each match will be a battle, and the journey towards glory will be tough. However, the team has a rich tradition and a talented roster, and it is up to them to make the most of this opportunity.

Ultimately, the FIFA Women’s World Cup 2023 will be an exciting festival of women’s football, where the best teams in the world will compete for the title. The USWNT has all the tools to make a memorable campaign, but only time will tell if they will be crowned world champions once again. We are eager to follow every moment of this thrilling journey and witness the stories that will be written in this epic tournament. Bring on the FIFA Women’s World Cup 2023!

AUCKLAND, NEW ZEALAND – JULY 21: Sofia Huerta #3 of the United States crosses the ball during USWNT Training at Bay City Park on July 21, 2023 in Auckland, New Zealand. (Photo by Brad Smith/USSF/Getty Images for USSF).
AUCKLAND, NEW ZEALAND – JULY 21: Sofia Huerta #3 of the United States crosses the ball during USWNT Training at Bay City Park on July 21, 2023 in Auckland, New Zealand. (Photo by Brad Smith/USSF/Getty Images for USSF). /
  • U.S. WOMEN’S NATIONAL TEAM ROSTER BY POSITION (CLUB; CAPS/GOALS) – 2023 FIFA WOMEN’S WORLD CUP

GOALKEEPERS (3): Aubrey Kingsbury (Washington Spirit; 1), Casey Murphy (North Carolina Courage; 14), Alyssa Naeher (Chicago Red Stars; 91)

DEFENDERS (7): Alana Cook (OL Reign; 25/1), Emily Fox (North Carolina Courage; 29/1), Crystal Dunn (Portland Thorns FC; 132/24), Naomi Girma (San Diego Wave FC; 16/0), Sofia Huerta (OL Reign; 30/0), Kelley O’Hara (NJ/NY Gotham FC; 157/3), Emily Sonnett (OL Reign; 75/1)

MIDFIELDERS (7): Savannah DeMelo (Racing Louisville FC; 0/0), Julie Ertz (Angel City FC; 118/20), Lindsey Horan (Olympique Lyon, FRA; 129/27), Rose Lavelle (OL Reign; 88/24), Kristie Mewis (NJ/NY Gotham FC; 51/7), Ashley Sanchez (Washington Spirit; 25/3), Andi Sullivan (Washington Spirit; 45/3)

FORWARDS (6): Alex Morgan (San Diego Wave FC; 207/121), Megan Rapinoe (OL Reign; 199/63), Trinity Rodman (Washington Spirit; 18/4), Sophia Smith (Portland Thorns FC; 30/12), Alyssa Thompson (Angel City FC; 4/0), Lynn Williams (NJ/NY Gotham FC; 53/15)

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