USWNT vs. Zambia: A Critical Start to the Olympic Campaign

The USWNT’s quest for Gold begins against Zambia, a formidable opponent. Emma Hayes has been in charge for four games, with three wins and a draw. While the Stars and Stripes were dominant against South Korea, their last two games against CONCACAF opponents left something to be desired. Zambia has plenty of star power who can take over a game on their own, which makes for an enthralling opener for the USWNT at the Olympics against Zambia. 

USWNT vs. Zambia: July 25 at 3:00 PM ET/12:00 PM PT, USA Network, Universo, Peacock

As expected, the USWNT is heavily favored against Zambia. However, for those who have been watching the NWSL and have seen Barbra Banda and Rachael Kundananji firsthand, you’ll understand why they should strike fear into the USWNT. Banda and Kundananji’s pace is something to behold when they get behind defenses when you factor in their speed, strength, and ability to capitalize on defensive mistakes. If any of the USWNT players are casual with the ball and misplace any passes, they will be punished.

On top of that, the finishing of the USWNT has been a concern. Against Mexico and Costa Rica, the USWNT combined for 43 shots with 18 on target and scored one goal. Costa Rica defended brilliantly, but it isn’t an excuse for the USWNT not to take their chances. Sophia Smith, Trinity Rodman, and Mallory Swanson are all amid some of the best club seasons they’ve ever had. They must carry this form into the Olympics, or the USWNT won’t make it to the medal rounds. 

If this poor finishing continues, they will be tested more than they would like against Zambia. The USWNT will likely dominate most of the possession like they did against Mexico and Costa Rica. They are susceptible to giving up a goal if they leave the door open slightly for someone like Banda or Kundananji and get caught out on the counter-attack. As long as Naomi Girma and Alyssa Naeher maintain the standard they’ve played at for the last six months, the USWNT should be okay.

Lynn Williams and Jaedyn Shaw are excellent attacking options to bring in off the bench if necessary. But Rodman, Smith, and Swanson need to get the job done and finish. They’re doing everything else they possibly can as a team. As long as they put the ball in the back of the net like they’re supposed to, they’ll handle Zambia in the first game but tread carefully with Banda and Kundananji. 

Featured image via @uswnt on Instagram 

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