By Amelia Hirtle
The narratives behind the potential for the United States to face off against Canada in the Concacaf W final had been brewing for quite some time. While they may not have been written, it was certainly thought about.
The narratives were revealed shortly after the midnight hour on the East Coast, on July 14th, as Canada overtook Jamaica by a score of 3-0. Coincidentally, the U.S. also beat Jamaica by a score of 3-0 in group play. In fact, Canada and the United States had similar stats at the end of group play. Both teams beat their opponents by an even twelve goals, earning them nine points. Neither team was scored on by their group opponents.
With Canada besting the U.S. in semifinal play in the Tokyo Olympics, their squad had the most recent victory of the two teams. The USWNT struggled during the Olympics, as did many teams for many varied reasons. No fans at the events made for quiet stadiums and strict social distancing rules forced teams to be more cautious of their movements. Canada beat the U.S. on a penalty kick to move on to the finals where they beat Sweden to take gold.
Fast forward to the Concacaf W championship, a predicted final between two teams. One, looking for redemption and the other looking to build off their recent success. In the end, the result was similar. Rose Lavelle was dancing her way down the pitch and got clipped in the penalty box in the 78th minute. Alex Morgan took the shot and made it, pushing the Americans to a win.
Throughout the first half, the USWNT were on the front foot and could have been up multiple goals before the break. The front three lineup of Sophia Smith, Mallory Pugh, and Morgan missed some chances that could have given the Americans more confidence as the match went on. Canada had a few chances in both halves, but the U.S. defense stood strong.
The win gives the Americans a spot in the 2024 Paris Olympics. They avoid the inter-continental playoff, which Canada will play Jamaica in, beginning in September of 2023.
There is much to be learned from the matches over the past month. The new players on the team gained valuable experience by playing in a different environment with lots of pressure on them. Sophia Smith and Emily Fox continued to impress on the pitch. The finishing in the final third is something Vlatko Andonovski will have to continue to look at as the U.S. missed multiple chances that would have put the game away early.
Now, players in the NWSL, including internationals, will have a week break before the league returns to play on July 29th. National team duty will resume in September.