USWNT vs. Japan: Olympics Quarterfinal Preview

As the USWNT continues its quest for Gold, it now faces a familiar foe who always plays them tough: Japan. The Japanese have only defeated the USWNT once in International competition, but that was the World Cup Final in 2011. In spite of just one win, they’ve also managed eight draws, which is all they’ll need to push the USWNT into extra time and penalties. The USWNT are favorites to win this game but Japan will always be dangerous and capable of pulling off an upset. Let’s preview the Olympic Quarterfinal between the USWNT and Japan.

USWNT vs. Japan, Saturday: August 3 at 9:00 AM ET/6:00 AM PST, Telemundo, Peacock

Based on the USWNT’s performances throughout the competition, nothing needs to change from an attacking perspective. Sophia Smith, Mallory Swanson, and Trinity Rodman have all had a major impact, wreaking havoc against opposing defenses. The biggest worry is any type of mistake defensively or simply a drop in intensity against Japan. Look no further than the last time these two teams met. The SheBelieves Cup semifinal in April was a 2-1 win against Japan. However, Japan blitzed the USWNT and scored within the first minute of the game. The USWNT showed tremendous resilience and came back. Jaedyn Shaw scored in the 21st minute to equalize, and Lindsey Horan scored a pressure penalty in the 77th minute to secure the win. 

Japan truly has a never-say-die attitude. Earlier in the Olympics group stage, they stole a win over Brazil, who dominated them for much of the match. Japan scored twice in stoppage time to stun Brazil, and they’re capable of doing the same to the USWNT if they aren’t careful. Yet that’s the advantage that the USWNT has over other teams by playing a team like Japan in the SheBelieves Cup. They’re a far more familiar opponent, and that helps in preparation and understanding what Japan wants to do tactically. By coming from behind in that cup semifinal, the USWNT should have even more confidence coming into this game that they can defeat Japan. 

Alyssa Naeher and Naomi Girma have been incredible but the injury status of Tierna Davidson is the key for this backline moving forward. It hurts to say this but Emily Sonnett is looking like the weak link at centerback. Sonnett was the one who got caught sliding over on the first Alanna Kennedy attempt and was then fortunate that Kennedy missed minutes later after not even contesting her in the box. Granted, the Matildas put in quality service to their strikers, but both opportunities were in and around her area. If Davidson still can’t play and her status is still up in the air, expect Japan to go right at her rather than Girma.

The USWNT appears to be on a revenge tour and has mowed down everyone in their path so far. While Japan is sure to test them, as they did in the SheBelieves Cup, expect the USWNT to emerge victorious and head to the semifinals, where they’re least guaranteed to compete for the Bronze Medal. Of course, the goal is always Gold, but beating Japan is the first step to doing so.  

Featured image via @USWNT on Instagram

_

GIRLS SOCCER NETWORK: YOUR SOURCE FOR GIRLS SOCCER NEWS