USWNT vs. South Korea: What We Learned and What to Expect
Two years ago, the United States took on South Korea in Jill Ellis’ last game in charge of the USWNT. That match surprisingly ended in a 1-1 draw, spoiling Ellis’ farewell. Fast forward to the present, and the result is the same–a draw, but 0-0. Again, no one would’ve picked the USWNT to get shut out against Korea, but they stood tall and defended bravely. While the match itself was fun, here’s what we learned from their first game against Korea, along with what to expect for the second matchup.
What We Learned
One of the first things we learned is that this isn’t just the end for Carli Lloyd. We’re approaching the end of another golden generation. Julie Foudy mentioned on the broadcast that this could be one of the last times we’ll see Tobin Heath, Alex Morgan, and Megan Rapinoe on the pitch starting a game for the USWNT at the same time. We need to cherish matches like these. We should appreciate their greatness because we have no idea how much longer these older stars will stick around for, particularly Megan Rapinoe.
As for the match itself, Lindsey Horan earned her 100th cap for the USWNT. It was another big milestone speaking to her consistency as a player. Horan had the best chance of the game. Her shot from outside the box hit the post. As expected, most of the match was spent in South Korea’s half. It was simply a matter of if the US could score.
A look back at tonight's action ? pic.twitter.com/Cg1vwYDiab
— U.S. Soccer WNT (@USWNT) October 22, 2021
Alex Morgan made great runs in behind. But, with five in the back, Korea was determined to keep the clean sheet. So-Ji Yun of Chelsea looked great out there for Korea; she’s one of the best in the world. Korea’s keeper, Yoon Young-geul, was also outstanding. She made big save after big save, keeping the Americans out of the net, including a diving save to her left to deny Carli Lloyd. Rose Lavelle had a header cleared off the line, and Kristie Mewis missed high on her chance as well.
We learned that the USWNT is the same juggernaut they’ve been against weaker teams. Sometimes they have trouble scoring. But overall, this is exactly what we expected from them. South Korea never looked like they were going to score at any point, which speaks to the United States’ backline dominance.
Another important thing we learned is just how great Sophia Smith can become. When Alex Morgan retires, we will need a new goalscorer, and Smith is the perfect candidate to step in and fill that role.
What to Expect
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Heading into the next match on Tuesday, October 26, do not expect it to be 0-0. Vlatko Andonovski and his staff will make the proper adjustments to take on five in the back for Korea. It’s highly unlikely South Korea will keep up with the USWNT in the next game. Plus, with it being Carli Lloyd’s last game for the USWNT, you better believe she’s going to score or do everything possible to try.
Since it will be her farewell and the USWNT just played to a draw, they should get back on track and put at least a couple past South Korea. I like either a 2-0 or 3-0 scoreline since Korea showed their defensive discipline. But, the second match should not be nearly as close as the first one was.
The USWNT look as good as ever, and they’re determined to move on from the Olympics. Carli Lloyd’s last match will truly be a spectacle unlike any other.
Featured image via Getty Images
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