The U.S. Women’s National Soccer Team goes into today’s Women’s World Cup quarterfinal against Brazil in an odd position.
Coming off a loss.
Until last week’s defeat at the hands of Sweden, the Americans had never dropped a group game at the tournament. Now, after their first-ever second-place finish in the opening stage, the U.S. will be looking for redemption. It won’t be easy.
Fellow Cup favorite Brazil is waiting in the quarterfinals today (11:30 a.m., ESPN). Marta and Co., went a perfect 3-0 in their group, gaining a measure of momentum for today’s clash.
The Americans have long dominated the Brazilians, with a 23-2-2 record in the all-time series. But both the U.S. front and back lines have often looked ineffective in Germany so far, and Brazil is averaging a tournament-best 2.3 goals per game. They’ve been both remarkably disciplined — suffering just three offside calls in three games — and remarkably efficient — scoring seven times on 16 shots on goal.
“Brazil are a technically gifted side, and we’ll have to stick
together,” U.S. defender Christie Rampone told FIFA.com. “We really need
to play as a team, and that’s what we’re focusing on. We need to work
for one another and help each other out. If we can do that, we’ll get
the result we’re all hoping for.”
The U.S. has been called offside six times in three games, and netted six goals in 27 shots.
Marta, arguably the world’s top female player, had two goals and two assists in group play. The Americans’ top scorer, Lauren Cheney, was good for one goal and two assists.
