The 2018 SheBelieves Cup hinges on the final game of the tournament, with the United States taking on England tonight in Florida. Both teams have 4 points, with the Three Lionesses holding the edge on the USWNT via goal difference at the moment. That means that the U.S. must win to emerge as the champions of their now-annual spring competition. With England showing a tendency to play over the top frequently under new head coach Phil Neville, the USWNT will get a real test tonight.
Location: Orlando City Stadium (Orlando, FL)
Kickoff time: 7:00pm Eastern
Projected USWNT starting 11: (433) - Alyssa Naeher; Taylor Smith, Abby Dahlkemper, Tierna Davidson, Kelley O’Hara; Andi Sullivan, Morgan Brian, Lindsey Horan; Mallory Pugh, Alex Morgan, Megan Rapinoe
Bench: Ashlyn Harris, Jane Campbell, Sofia Huerta, Emily Sonnett, Casey Short, Allie Long, Julie Ertz, Carli Lloyd, Savannah McCaskill, Lynn Williams, Christen Press, Crystal Dunn
It may not be the wisest thing in the world to opt for sparing rotation during a friendly tournament played in three different cities over the span of a week, especially as injuries are piling up, but this is the set pattern under Jill Ellis. She appears to be using this tournament as a dry run for World Cup qualifying, and it seems safe to expect her to play what she sees as her best team with the SheBelieves Cup on the line.
With Julie Ertz doubtful to play, and Casey short limping off after subbing into Sunday’s draw with France, it seems likely that Smith and Brian will return at right back and defensive midfield, respectively. We could possibly see starts for Sonnett (over Davidson) and Lloyd (over Sullivan or Horan), but both seem more likely to appear as subs.
Available TV: ESPNews
Available streaming: WatchESPN, ESPN3
For listings in other countries, check out LiveSoccerTV.com.
What do we our friends have to say about it?: Stars and Stripes FC has some questions about the U.S. defense, and expects a pretty direct game.
What are you drinking?: Leaning towards a margarita, but it could become a mezcal-rita by the time the evening comes around.
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