2023 SheBelieves Cup: USWNT Match Previews
The eighth edition of the SheBelieves Cup will commence as one of the last major competitions before the World Cup. Based on the teams coming to this year’s competition, the stakes are the highest since England, Spain, and Japan went to the states three years ago. The USWNT might play a few friendlies closer to the World Cup, but this is the last time we’ll see them in an ultra-competitive setting with a trophy on the line. So, let’s break down all three matchups for the USWNT in the 2023 SheBelieves Cup.
USWNT vs. Canada, February 16, 7:00 PM ET/4:00 PM PT, HBO Max/Peacock
When Canada and the United States play, it’s always a big deal, but this matchup has even more to unpack behind the scenes. The Canadian national team went on strike less than a week ago over budget cuts and equal pay concerns. Christine Sinclair has come out and said the team is being forced back to work, specifically for the SheBelieves Cup.
There’s some turmoil here that could impact Canada’s performance. Will they put their feelings aside to play with pride for their country or let the strike get in their way?
Canada hasn’t set their official roster yet because of their stars playing in England; if players like Kadeisha Buchanan and Jessie Fleming can’t make the trip, this could be a rough cup for Canada. The last time the USWNT played a team with federation issues, they lost to Spain; the United States will have to earn it. However, this can only help the USWNT as they should be more focused and ready to go.
The USWNT bringing their full roster should be enough to defeat Canada, with the Americans spending most of the game in Canada’s half.
Prediction: USWNT wins 2-0
USWNT vs. Japan, February 19, 3:30 PM ET/12:30 PM PT, HBO Max/Peacock
With each passing year, Japan ensures that more of their players expand their horizons to play in the top leagues of Europe and America. Saki Kumagai is their captain at the back who has played at Chelsea, Lyon, and now Bayern Munich.
Hina Sugita had a fantastic year for the Portland Thorns, and Mana Iwabuchi has also displayed her skill in the FA WSL. This Japan team is flying under the radar, and they are sure to be the USWNT’s toughest test all tournament.
Unbeaten in their last five matches, this team is so disciplined and balanced tactically that the USWNT has always had trouble when playing Japan. The previous two results in the SheBelieves Cup were 2-2 and 3-1 in favor of the USA, which shows this match won’t be easy.
While the United States should win this match, I believe Japan will find a way to force a draw.
Prediction: 1-1 Draw
USWNT vs. Brazil, February 22, 7:00 PM ET/4:00 PM PT, HBO Max/Peacock
Brazil has not been the same Brazil we know and love over the last couple of years. However, Marta is still going strong and anchoring this team alongside Debhina, one of the best in the world. With some younger stars in the group, the Brazilians are on a nice run coming into the competition. Since the Copa America last summer, Brazil has won 11 of their previous 12 games; their one loss was to Canada, which they avenged a couple of days later.
Kerolin Nicoli is the kind of player who gives the USWNT backline plenty of trouble. In addition, NWSL midfielders like Adriana and Julia Bianchi will have some familiarity playing against their American counterparts.
This match will be closer than expected, and we should see many goals from both teams. Brazil’s weakness has always been its defense, making the USWNT attack an even tougher prospect to face. I like the USWNT to squeeze this one out in a thriller.
Prediction: USWNT wins 3-2
Featured image via @USWNT on Twitter
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