Women's World Cup

I woke up this morning at 5 am to watch the USA's first game of the 2007 women's world cup. We tied North Korea 2-2. I'm ok with a tie, a fitting end to the way the game was played. The USA should have won this game. North Korea scored their only goals while Wombach was on the sideline getting stitches. And the first goal was very lucky, Solo will not let another one of those in. But I can make a case for North Korea too. They dominated possession, and were very aggressive in the midfield. Although the USA players are bigger, the Koreans seemed to be faster and especially in the final 15 minutes, a more conditioned team. The USA defenders were able to get a leg in front of a few good shots, and Solo made a great save in stoppage time to preserve the tie.

This is not, as Nike puts it, "The greatest team you've never heard of." This is a team with talent, but hardly any experience. If this is the best the US can play, they will be lucky to make third place again. However, I believe we can play better. I want to see more build-up out of our defense, and some one touch passing through the midfield. We need better service from the wings, and on corners, to take advantage of our height.

Next game is on the 14th against the runner up from 2003 - Sweden. The USA and Sweden are predicted to be the teams that advance from our group, so this game is crucial. A win would almost certainly ensure a spot in the next round. A loss could definitely send us home early.