The USWNT will play against the Netherlands this Wednesday in the Women’s World Cup

AUCKLAND, NEW ZEALAND - JULY 22: Sophia Smith #11 of the United States looks to the referee during a FIFA World Cup Group Stage game between Vietnam and USWNT at Eden Park on July 22, 2023 in Auckland, New Zealand. (Photo by Brad Smith/USSF/Getty Images for USSF).
AUCKLAND, NEW ZEALAND - JULY 22: Sophia Smith #11 of the United States looks to the referee during a FIFA World Cup Group Stage game between Vietnam and USWNT at Eden Park on July 22, 2023 in Auckland, New Zealand. (Photo by Brad Smith/USSF/Getty Images for USSF).

The 2023 Women’s World Cup is in full swing, and one of the most anticipated matches of the group stage will take place this Wednesday at 10:00 PM (Brasília time), as the United States and the Netherlands face each other at Sky Stadium in Wellington.

This match is surrounded by expectations, considering that both teams began their campaign in the tournament with victories in their opening games. The Americans defeated Vietnam 3-0, with goals from Sophia Smith and Lindsey Horan, while the Dutch overcame Portugal with a narrow margin, thanks to a goal from defender Van der Gragt.

The presence of renowned stars on the field only adds to the excitement of the clash. Alex Morgan, despite missing a penalty against Vietnam, remains the main reference for the United States team. Additionally, coach Vlatko Andonovski relies on the experienced midfielder Megan Rapinoe, who could be a key player for the team’s success.

On the other hand, the Netherlands boasts the talented Lieke Martens, who plays for Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) and can pose problems for the American defense with her skill and vision on the field.

USA’s forward #20 Trinity Rodman fights for the ball with Vietnam’s defender #05 Thi Loan Hoang during the Australia and New Zealand 2023 Women’s World Cup Group E football match between the United States and Vietnam at Eden Park in Auckland on July 22, 2023. (Photo by Saeed KHAN / AFP) (Photo by SAEED KHAN/AFP via Getty Images)
USA’s forward #20 Trinity Rodman fights for the ball with Vietnam’s defender #05 Thi Loan Hoang during the Australia and New Zealand 2023 Women’s World Cup Group E football match between the United States and Vietnam at Eden Park in Auckland on July 22, 2023. (Photo by Saeed KHAN / AFP) (Photo by SAEED KHAN/AFP via Getty Images)

Both teams share the fact that they reached the final in the last edition of the Women’s World Cup, making this duel even more significant. The match is expected to be marked by balance, with both teams seeking victory to secure a more favorable position in the elimination stage.

The encounter between the United States and the Netherlands will be an opportunity for fans of women’s soccer to witness a high-level spectacle, with two of the world’s top teams facing off in pursuit of glory in the biggest women’s soccer tournament.

The result of this clash could have significant implications for the rest of the tournament, and both teams are aware of the importance of a victory in this group stage.

While the eyes of the world are on this epic showdown, it is important to highlight the growth and appreciation of women’s soccer, with top-level talents being showcased on the international stage. Fan engagement and support are crucial to drive the continuous development of the sport and encourage more girls and women to get involved in soccer.

May the match between the United States and the Netherlands be a celebration of the excellence of women’s soccer, providing an exciting spectacle that inspires future generations of players and fans around the world.

Probable line-ups:

United States: Naeher; Fox, Ertz, Girma, and Dunn; Demelo, Sullivan, and Horan; Thompson, Morgan, and Smith.

Netherlands: Van Domselaar; Spitse, Van der Gragt, and Janssen; Pelova, Roord, Groenen, Van de Donk, and Brugts; Beerensteyn and Martens.