I thought Franch looked good, too. You could tell she was nervous at first but by the end she was directing players and was wearing her game face. She needs to learn how to jump out for corner kicks before one goes in on her, and rely less on reflex and more on knowing where to be. That comes with playing, though, so she could be great, or fall on her face. I'd put her in the Algarve (with Jess) after a couple more friendlies and see what happens.
I love US women's soccer national team 2019 very much... They are the most beautiful ladies on the planet and are the best soccer players of the world at all time... .
The score doesn't really reflect how well Portugal played. Since Heath's opener, they really closed down the passing lanes and played consistently tight. They made the US earn their goals. They kept control of the interior, forcing US attacks outside, yet, didn't allow many over the top balls because their back line played so tight to the US line. They couldn't make the attacking transitions and that kept them out of rhythm. As a few times, they showed that they had individual and team skills. They just weren't allowed time to settle and build into it because of the relentless US pressure. This game was better than most of the WC games, in terms of organized intensity and forcing the US to solve it. The only differential that gave the US the advantage was really...poor player marking by Portugal as all 4 goals were deflections/redirections in front of goal. If Portugal works on tightening their marking and physicality in the box...they'll be dangerous. *Interesting correlation...did the US even have an offside called against them in this one? I don't think so. It's interesting that Morgan wasn't playing. That's not a shot at her, mind you, as her constant runs lead to more offsides AND cause more line breakdowns producing more scoring opportunities. This game kind of highlights that aspect of her usefulness. There was no one to make those sweeping runs and Portugal's D was able to keep their shape and composure, for the most part.
Miscommunication probably. Sometimes defenders that try to head it can actually get in the way and cause own goals, so when you're that close to goal, you let the goalie take over. She just didn't realize the goalie wasn't there.
I don't like number 6 of Portugal... She played soccer as Tobin Heath did.. She thinks too much and takes too much times on the ball... By the way, Portugal could not be compared with the US ...
JP Dellacamera; what a poor choice by ESPN. Then again, they cannot afford Ian Darke, the KING of sport commentators. What an elegant, educated, articulate man he is. Something JP will never be!
