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The U.S. Women's National Team takes on Switzerland today in its second Algarve Cup match. The game kicks off at 9 a.m. ET and will be shown on FOX Sports 1.
Two days ago, the USWNT opened the Algarve Cup with a 2-1 victory over Norway, propelled by two second-half goals from Carli Lloyd. Seattle Reign FC players Hope Solo, Megan Rapinoe, and Sydney Leroux all saw time, with Solo starting her first match since her suspension. Switzerland is coming off a 2-0 victory against Iceland, thanks to two goals in the second half from Lara Dickenmann.
The USWNT finish Group B play on March 9 against Iceland (1:30 p.m. ET, not televised).
What to Watch
- The U.S. continue to play narrow, with Carli Lloyd and Christen Press playing tucked-in wide midfielder roles. Against Norway, this allowed right back Ali Krieger to get into the attack. It also leaves the team susceptible to counters on the flanks, which is how Norway scored their only goal. Traditional wingers like Megan Rapinoe and Tobin Heath could relieve some of the added pressure placed on the defense.
- Who will start at left back? USWNT coach Jill Ellis elected to start Lori Chalupny, who traditionally plays midfield and struggled in the first half. She was replaced by Meghan Klingenberg right after half, and the back line look much stronger.
- The USWNT easily beat Switzerland in August 2014, with a final score of 4-1. Don't let that fool you. Switzerland, heading to their first-ever World Cup, is a young, aggressive team. Their offense is led by Striker Ramona Bachmann, who knows how to find the back of the net, and Olympique Lyon midfielder Lara Dickenmann.
- England and Norway opted to play a very low defensive line against the USWNT, hoping to bunker and get chances on a counter-attack. This strategy worked for both teams in the first half, as the U.S. currently lack the creativity to move the ball around and find defensive holes.
How to Watch
Match Date/Time: Friday, March 6, 9 AM Pacific
Venue: Municipal Stadium, Vila Real de San Antonio, Portugal
TV: FOX Sports 1
Online: Streaming through Fox Sports Go