Title: Imagining Lineup Changes for the U.S. Women’s National Team in the Round of 16
Introduction
The U.S. women’s national team has been resolute in their playing style and lineup choices, but fans and experts can’t help but wonder if some changes are needed for the upcoming round of 16 match against Sweden. While Coach Vlatko Andonovski remains steadfast in his approach, let’s explore some imagined lineup possibilities that could potentially bring a fresh dynamic to the team.
Meg Linehan’s XI (4-2-3-1)
– Casey Murphy; Emily Fox, Naomi Girma, Julie Ertz, Kelley O’Hara; Andi Sullivan, Lindsey Horan; Lynn Williams, Crystal Dunn, Trinity Rodman; Sophia Smith
Meg Linehan proposes a significant shake-up to the team’s formation. She suggests moving away from the 4-3-3 formation and introducing a 4-2-3-1 setup. Linehan believes this change could address the team’s struggles and allow players like Sophia Smith to shine. However, she acknowledges the risk of starting a goalkeeper with no previous World Cup experience.
Steph Yang’s XI (4-2-3-1)
– Murphy; Dunn, Girma, Ertz, Fox; Horan, Sullivan; Kristie Mewis, Alex Morgan, Williams; Smith
Steph Yang also advocates for a 4-2-3-1 formation but suggests Casey Murphy as the starting goalkeeper. Yang believes this change could provide more support to Andi Sullivan and create additional passing options between the lines. She emphasizes the importance of maintaining a cohesive backline while moving Sophia Smith into a central striker role.
Jeff Rueter’s XI (4-3-3)
– Murphy; Dunn, Girma, Ertz, O’Hara; Sullivan; Horan, Savannah DeMelo; Williams, Smith, Rodman
Jeff Rueter proposes a 4-3-3 formation that leverages the strengths of key players. He expresses concerns about Alyssa Naeher’s form and suggests giving Casey Murphy a chance in goal. Rueter also highlights the importance of utilizing Kelley O’Hara’s leadership and versatility to create a three-defender shape when Crystal Dunn progresses forward. This lineup aims to maximize the attacking potential of Williams, Smith, and Rodman.
Kim McCauley’s XI (4-4-2 diamond)
– Murphy; Dunn, Girma, Ertz, Fox; Sullivan, Horan, DeMelo, Mewis; Smith, Williams
Kim McCauley takes a different approach by suggesting a 4-4-2 diamond formation. She believes that this lineup would prioritize defensive solidity and make it difficult for the opponent to play. McCauley acknowledges that the team may not excel in intricate passing combinations or high-intensity pressing, so she advocates for a more direct style of play.
Kudzi Musarurwa’s XI (4-2-3-1)
– Naeher; Dunn, Girma, Cook, Fox; Ertz, Horan; Sanchez; Williams, Smith, Rodman
Kudzi Musarurwa proposes a 4-2-3-1 formation with Alyssa Naeher in goal. Musarurwa suggests keeping some consistency in the backline while moving Lindsey Horan deeper to partner with Julie Ertz in midfield. This change aims to provide better protection for the defense. Musarurwa also emphasizes the importance of utilizing Sophia Smith’s speed against Sweden’s defense.
Conclusion
While Coach Vlatko Andonovski remains committed to his preferred lineup and tactical style, fans and experts can’t help but imagine alternative possibilities for the U.S. women’s national team. These imagined lineups propose changes in formations, player positions, and even the goalkeeper. Whether it’s a shift to a 4-2-3-1 or a 4-4-2 diamond, the goal is to find a winning formula that maximizes the team’s strengths and exploits the weaknesses of the opposition. Ultimately, only time will tell if any of these imagined lineups become a reality on the field.