The US Women’s National Team (USWNT) has faced criticism from former player Carli Lloyd for their reaction following a 0-0 draw with Portugal in the Women’s World Cup. However, head coach Vlatko Andonovski has defended his team, stating that it is “insane” to question their mentality.
Despite the draw, the USWNT qualified for the last 16 of the tournament. This is only the second time in Women’s World Cup history that they have failed to win their group. The team narrowly avoided elimination when Portugal’s Ana Capeta struck the post in second-half stoppage time.
After the match, footage showed players Megan Rapinoe, Alex Morgan, and Crystal Dunn dancing at full-time, while captain Lindsey Horan laughed and applauded. Sophia Smith even posed for photographs with supporters. Lloyd, who was working as a pundit for Fox Sports, expressed her disbelief at the players’ behavior, stating, “I have never witnessed something like that.”
Lloyd went on to say, “There’s a difference between being respectful of the fans and saying hello to your family. But to be dancing, to be smiling? I mean, the player of the match was that post. You’re lucky to not be going home right now.”
Andonovski acknowledged that his team’s performance was below par but defended their desire to win. He stated, “This team wanted to win this game more than anything else, and they did everything they could in preparation for this tournament and in every game.” He dismissed any criticism of the team’s mentality, calling it “insane.”
He continued, “I’ve never seen this team step on the field and not try harder and not compete. Everyone is entitled to an opinion, but I just know how this team feels.” Andonovski acknowledged that the team did not play well but emphasized that they owned their performance and were not happy with it. However, he highlighted that they qualified for the next round and would be moving forward.
The USWNT will face the winner of Group G in the last 16, which will take place in Melbourne on August 6. Sweden is currently in pole position to top Group G after winning their first two group games. The USWNT will find out their last-16 opponent following the final round of Group G fixtures on Wednesday.
In conclusion, the USWNT’s reaction to their 0-0 draw with Portugal has come under scrutiny, with Carli Lloyd criticizing the players’ dancing and smiling after the match. However, head coach Vlatko Andonovski has defended his team, stating that it is unfair to question their mentality and desire to win. The team has qualified for the last 16 of the Women’s World Cup and will face the winner of Group G in Melbourne on August 6.