By Kendra Sheehan Syracuse, N.Y. (NCC News) — On Monday, the U.S. women’s soccer team advanced to the quarterfinals in the 2019 FIFA World Cup and will now face France on Friday. France has been considered the team most likely to derail the U.S. women’s hopes in defending the 2015 title. Ranked #4 in the world, France has the home field advantage and has beaten the U.S. in two of their last three meetings, while the U.S. will look to secure yet another spot in the semi-finals.
Players U.S. Will Have to Contain:
- Valerie Gauvin is a new player that should concern other teams’ defenses. In her first appearance in the World Cup she’s already put two goals away. She started her career as a goalkeeper giving her additional perspective and making her a double threat.
- Wendie Renard will be another threat to the U.S. The veteran is making her third appearance in a world cup already scoring three goals in this tournament. She plays as a defender but has the ability to come off the back line and lead her team in offensive charges.
Until the U.S.-Spain matchup, the U.S. showed few weaknesses. Holding the U.S. to only penalty kick goals, Spain showed that disrupting the U.S. rhythm and playing a big physical game can slow them offensively. Meanwhile, the U.S. will be out to avenge the previous losses to France as well as redemption for their surprisingly early exit from the Rio Olympics. This is a match not to be missed.
