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Today marks the final SheBelieves Cup match for the U.S. Women’s National Team. The U.S. concludes the tournament against France in a match that kicks off at 4:00 p.m. PT on FS1. The Americans enter the match with 3 points, while France comes in with 4.
If the U.S. finishes with a win, the team will take home its second-straight SheBelieves Cup title. A win or a draw will earn France the championship.
The two sides will play at DC United’s home, RFK Stadium, and the pitch appears to be in horrible shape. Not only were MLS players falling down left and right on the field over the weekend, the match will take place immediately after England and Germany face off. With rain in the forecast for the evening, the ground will be even softer.
In true #SheBelieves tradition the final games are being played on part beach. ⛱ pic.twitter.com/a5NFMZTW6f
— Jen O'Neill (@SheKicksdotnet) March 7, 2017
Putting field conditions aside, this could be a thrilling match for fans. After defeating England 2-1 off two set-piece goals, France played to a scoreless draw against Germany. The game featured the brilliant technical skills France has become known for of late, while also highlighting an issue that has plagued the team for years: an inability to finish. France had plenty of chances, but failed to convert any of them.
What makes France so dangerous, however, is the team’s ability to punish opponents all over the field. The 5’ 11” centerback Wendie Renard is a danger on set pieces, while Camille Abily can strike the ball from distance. Speedy attackers, including Eugénie Le Sommer and Marie-Laure Delie, could put significant pressure on the U.S. three-person backline.
The good news is that the U.S. looked notably better in the midfield on Saturday. While the team lost 1-0 to England in the final minutes of play, the debut of Rose Lavelle and the play of Samantha Mewis and Lindsey Horan in the midfield was a revelation.
While the team still struggled to score, the England match offered plenty of encouraging signs. If the U.S. can build on this progress, the match against France should be a great one.
How to Watch
Location: RFK Stadium, Washington, D.C.
Time: 4 PM PT
TV: FS1
Streaming: FoxSoccer2Go, FoxSportsGo
This is your SheBelieves Cup gamethread. Watch and discuss with us.