Following a lower-than-expected group stage finish that was capped off with a 2-0 defeat against Mexico, expectations were low for the USWNT. But, they bounced back in style with a 3-0 win against Colombia in the QFs. It was a reminder of their immense attacking prowess. One more win and Twila Kilgore’s side will be in the CONCACAF W Gold Gup final! But, to do so, they face their sternest Gold Cup test yet, against neighbours Canada.
With an astounding 14 goals scored in 4 games, Canada is the team yet to be beaten. Furthermore, having lost to USWNT in the SheBelieves Cup last year, Canada will have an extra point to prove. And what better way to have revenge than by eliminating their opponents in a high-stakes game?
Injury and Team News
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Injuries have undoubtedly hampered Canada. Defender, Sydney Collins was initially drafted into the roster but was replaced by Bianca St-Georges, following an ankle fracture. Furthermore, they won’t be able to count on the services of attacking star Nichelle Prince, who had a calf injury in the tournament opener against El Salvador. The player to watch out for is goalkeeper Kailen Sheridan, who has yet to concede in the tournament!
For the USWNT, experienced defender Alana Cook was ruled out before the Gold Cup commenced. Per Twila Kilgore, this was due to a minor knee injury. Also, ahead of the tournament, star attacker Mia Fishel had an ACL tear which ruled her out too. This paved the way for Alex Morgan into the squad and there has been no looking back ever since.
Canada vs. USWNT: Expected Lineups
Canada expected starting XI (3-4-3)
Kailen Sheridan; Kadeisha Buchanan, Vanessa Gilles, Jade Rose; Gabby Carle, Quinn, Jessie Fleming, Ashley Lawrence; Jordyn Huitema, Cloe Lacasse, Adriana Leon
USWNT expected starting XI (4-5-1)
Alyssa Naeher; Jenna Nighswonger, Tierna Davidson, Naomi Girma, Emily Fox; Sam Coffey, Jaedyn Shaw, Lindsey Horan, Trinity Rodman, Korbin Albert; Alex Morgan
Head-to-Head stats
In this particular fixture, USWNT enjoys by far the better record. In 64 matches, their record reads 53 wins, 4 losses, and 7 draws! Even in the last 7 games, USWNT has come out on top on 6 occasions. But Canada has gotten the better of their neighbors in a knockout competition, the 1-0 win in the 2020 Tokyo Olympics.
Predictions
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Unlike the previous encounters, Canada seems the favorite this time around. But factoring in USWNT’s incredible showing against Colombia and their experience in winning the big trophies, we predict a 1-1 scoreline with USWNT progressing on penalties.
How to watch Canada vs. USWNT?
The anticipated clash kicks off later today at Snapdragon Stadium, San Diego at 10:15 PM ET/7:15 PM PT. Viewers can watch the match via Paramount+. If you need an alternative streaming service, fuboTV is the way to go. For Spanish coverage, ESPN Deportes is the best choice.
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Can the USWNT overcome Canada? Let us know your predictions below.