USWNT Head Coach Confirms Availability of Key Players for World Cup Opener Against Vietnam
The United States Women’s National Team (USWNT) head coach, Vlatko Andonovski, has provided an update on the fitness of key players ahead of their World Cup opening group game against Vietnam. Andonovski confirmed that Rose Lavelle, Megan Rapinoe, and Julie Ertz are all available for selection, easing concerns about their fitness leading up to the tournament.
In a press conference, Andonovski reassured fans that not all players in the 23-player squad were ready to play the full 90 minutes, but there were no injury concerns among the team. This news comes as a relief to USWNT supporters, who were anxious about the availability of some star players.
The USWNT is aiming for a historic “three-peat” in this World Cup, and their journey begins against World Cup debutants Vietnam at Eden Park. Andonovski expressed his satisfaction with the team’s overall health, stating, “Everyone on the team was healthy and available for play.” He also mentioned that some players would be on limited minutes initially but assured that everyone was in good health from a medical perspective.
One of the standout performers from the 2019 World Cup, Rose Lavelle, has been nursing a knee injury and has not played since April’s international break. However, Andonovski provided positive news about Lavelle’s progress, saying, “Rose is really good, she’s trained with us for three weeks and trained with us off and on before that.” He also mentioned that they would gradually increase her playing time as the tournament progresses.
Julie Ertz, who made her return to the USWNT during April’s friendlies against the Republic of Ireland, had been dealing with a sprained medial collateral ligament before giving birth in August. She joined Angel City in April and has appeared in several games since then. Ertz’s return adds depth and experience to the team’s midfield.
Megan Rapinoe, the 2019 golden boot winner, has been struggling with a hamstring injury since being forced off during OL Reign’s NWSL fixture against Kansas City Current in June. Despite her impressive track record, Rapinoe may not be expected to start against Vietnam due to the emergence of young talents like Trinity Rodman and Sophia Smith.
The availability of these key players is crucial for the USWNT’s success in the tournament. Lavelle, Rapinoe, and Ertz bring a wealth of experience and skill to the team, and their presence will undoubtedly boost the team’s chances of securing a victory in their opening game.
As the USWNT prepares for their World Cup campaign, fans can follow their journey on The Athletic’s dedicated Women’s World Cup coverage. The platform provides comprehensive coverage, analysis, and insights into the tournament, ensuring that fans stay up to date with all the latest news and developments.
With the reassurance of a healthy squad and the return of key players, the USWNT is ready to embark on their quest for a historic third consecutive World Cup title. The team’s depth and talent, combined with the guidance of Coach Andonovski, make them strong contenders in the tournament.
As the USWNT takes on Vietnam in their opening group game, fans around the world will be eagerly watching to see if they can kickstart their campaign with a convincing victory. The stage is set, and all eyes are on the USWNT as they aim to make history once again.