MLS Multiplex
Fansided

USWNT heads to Paris Olympics after poor finishing against Costa Rica

Last test before the Olympics reveals finishing challenges; Emma Hayes remains optimistic

By Izabelle Franca

Jul 16, 2024; Washington, D.C., USA; United States forward Sophia Smith (11) shoots the ball as Costa Rica midfielder Gloriana Villalobos (10) defends in the second half of a send-off friendly at Audi Field. Mandatory Credit: Geoff Burke-USA TODAY
Jul 16, 2024; Washington, D.C., USA; United States forward Sophia Smith (11) shoots the ball as Costa Rica midfielder Gloriana Villalobos (10) defends in the second half of a send-off friendly at Audi Field. Mandatory Credit: Geoff Burke-USA TODAY / Geoff Burke-USA TODAY Sports
facebooktwitterreddit

The United States Women's National Team took their last breath before the Paris Olympics with a goalless draw against Costa Rica. The match, held at Audi Field in Washington DC, was a real litmus test. And look, it was sweaty! In blistering heat, the American women showed that they have guts, but they also revealed a problem: a lack of aim. In front of 18,972 fans, Emma Hayes' team hammered away, pressed, but couldn't find the net.

Follow MLS Multiplex on X (Twitter).

The USWNT put Costa Rica under constant pressure, despite the intense heat. They had 26 shots, 12 of them on target, but goalkeeper Noelia Bermúdez, in a heroic performance, saved all the American attempts. The frustration of the USWNT players was palpable, especially after their recent favorable record against the Costa Ricans, with 17 wins and only one draw in 18 meetings.

Emma Hayes, in her usual calm manner, made two important changes to the line-up. Versatile veteran Crystal Dunn took over at left-back, while midfielder Korbin Albert replaced Rose Lavelle, sidelined as a precaution due to a stiff leg. The substitutions didn't stop the team from creating numerous chances, but finishing remained the team's Achilles heel.

And what about Costa Rica? The numbers don't lie. They came with a defensive mentality and played to hold on for a draw. And they did! This result broke a run of 17 consecutive defeats for the American team. It was a draw that tasted like a victory for Las Ticas, who are ranked 44th in the world and failed to qualify for the Olympics.

Even without an Olympic berth, the performance in Washington DC served as a boost for the Costa Ricans. It was their second clean sheet in 2024, following a 2-0 defeat to Mexico in the Concacaf W Gold Cup group stage in February.

Now the focus turns to Paris. The national team leaves for France with the mission of winning a fifth Olympic gold medal. Their first match will be against Zambia on July 25 in Nice. They then face Germany and Australia in Marseille.

Emma Hayes remained optimistic after the draw: “We're creating a lot of high-quality chances. The last part is the hardest. I'm patient, I've coached teams that have to break down blocks, and that's the hardest thing to do in training,” commented Hayes. She highlighted the team's intent and believes that the goals will come at the right time.

Swanson also shared her perspective, stressing the importance of continuing to work on finishing. “We're getting into the right positions. It's a question of continuing to work on finishing. I think that will happen,” said Swanson, who acknowledged the need to be more clinical when opportunities arise.

Preparing for the Olympics is always a mixture of nerves and expectation. And it couldn't be any different for the American team. With a new coach and some new faces in the squad, the challenge is great. But confidence is high. “It's a great, exciting opportunity and I just want to take advantage of it,” concluded Swanson, summing up the spirit of the team.

feed