How the U.S. *can* beat Spain. Plus: What ‘Ted Lasso’ got wrong
Full Time Newsletter ⚽| This is The Athletic’s weekly women’s soccer newsletter. Sign up here to receive Full Time directly in your inbox. We got the crossover we all deserve. (Dun, dun!) Coming up today: 🇺🇸 Keys to beating Spain 👨🏻 Ted Lasso falls short ⚽ NWSL expansion talk, again Round 2 USWNT keys to redemption Few moments epitomized the U.S. women’s 2-0 loss to reigning World Cup…
The U.S. women's soccer team's recent 2-0 loss to reigning World Cup champion Spain highlighted several issues that could hinder their performance in future matches. Forward Sophia Wilson's goal, while providing a brief moment of relief, was quickly followed by conceding two goals in the opening 15 minutes. This demonstrated the team's struggle to convert chances into goals, leaving them wondering about their "details."
To improve, U.S. coach Emma Hayes must prioritize finishing chances, maintaining defensive shape, and committing a holding midfielder. The ideal midfield trio would consist of Claire Hutton or Jaelin Howell, Rose Lavelle, and Lily Yohannes. Additionally, the U.S. needs to disrupt Spain's possession play and be more physical to counter their strong counterparts.
Spain, under coach Sonia Bermúdez, is expected to be tougher in the rematch, focusing on preventing transitions and clinical finishing. The crossover effect of the popular TV show "Ted Lasso" has brought attention to women's soccer, but its influence on the sport remains unclear.
Written by urgent.news from Yahoo Sports's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
