With only a few days remaining until the official commencement of the Paris 2024 Olympics, soccer activities have already begun. In just a few hours the U.S. Women’s National Team is set to kick-start their quest for a fifth Olympic gold medal. Under the leadership of Emma Hayes and her team, their initial challenge comes from one of the sport’s most dynamic and emerging squads—the Zambia Women’s National Team.

This year marks the Copper Queens’ second appearance at the Olympics as they prepare to face a formidable USWNT in what promises to be an exhilarating opening match. Also, this marks the first time both these teams are going to face each other. Now, let us explore the details surrounding this highly anticipated encounter.

Team news and Injury updates

USWNT: For Team USA the biggest development has been the omission of Alex Morgan from the roster. This marks the first time since 2008 that the Stars and Stripes will enter the Olympic Games without her presence. Before the tournament, Catarina Macario sustained an injury, leading coach Emma Hayes to replace her with Lynn Williams. Additionally, Jenna Nighswonger and Rose Lavelle did not participate in a friendly match against Costa Rica due to rest rather than injury; both are expected to be available for upcoming competitions.

Zambia Women: On Zambia’s side, Evarine Katongo and Susan Banda were excluded from their 18-player roster as a result of injuries. Other than that, Zambia appears poised for a strong performance at the Paris Olympics and aims to make a significant impact during its campaign.

Expected starting lineups for the Paris Olympics Clash

USWNT Expected XI: Naeher; Fox, Girma, Davidson, Nighswonger; Lavelle, Horan, Coffey; Rodman, Smith, Swanson

Zambia Women Expected XI: Musonda; Siamfuko, P Zulu, Mweemba, Tembo; H Chanda, Wilombe, M Zulu; Chitundu, Kundananji, Banda

Predictions for USWNT vs Zambia Women

Before making any predictions regarding the upcoming match, it is essential to examine the recent performances of both teams over their last five matches.

USWNT: W, W, W, W, W
Zambia Women: W, W, D, L, W

The US Women’s National Team poses a significant challenge, and under the esteemed leadership of Emma Hayes, they are regarded as strong contenders for gold at the Paris Olympics. While Zambia has shown promise with their dynamic duo of Barbra Banda and Rachael Kundananji, we anticipate that they will struggle to overcome the formidable strength of USWNT. Our prediction favors a victory for team US with a projected scoreline of USWNT 3 – 2 Zambia.

Paris Olympics 2024: Where and how to watch USWNT vs. Zambia

The exciting matchup between the USWNT and Zambia Women will occur at Stade de Nice in Nice on Thursday, July 25, at 3 PM EST. Fans can stream this highly anticipated game live via Peacock or watch it on television through USA Network.