A Week at the SheBelieves Cup

9 goals scored. 0 goals conceded. 1 MVP. The USWNT ran away with their fourth-ever SheBelieves Cup this past week. The USA’s clean sheet put them at the top of the table, finishing ahead of Brazil, Canada, and Argentina, respectively. Despite the weaker competition in comparison to previous SheBelieves Cups, the USWNT was still able to face two Olympic-level sides in Canada and Brazil, and allow players quality opportunities to prove why they should be one of the 18 to go to the Tokyo Olympics. Here are our takes.

First, the negatives. For the first time in a while, the USWNT back line seemed breakable. Argentina didn’t get many looks, but both Canada and Brazil notched more shots on goal than their last outings against the US. And while this could be blamed on “bench” players getting minutes, it is clear the US is losing the defense it relied on to win the 2019 World Cup, and will need to win the upcoming Olympics.

Further, there were many opportunities for the American offense to score that were wasted on selfish play and poor shots. Offensive strength is key on a roster with only 18 players, so Vlatko Andonovski will need to have some serious conversations with players who continue to squander opportunities that must be converted against the world’s top teams.

Now, some positives. To begin, this tournament was an opportunity for many “bubble” players to shine, and prove they deserve regular call-ups from the USWNT. For example, Kristie Mewis continued her dream ascent back to the world’s #1 team with a goal and an assist, and Midge Purce kept the right side of the field locked down in Kelley O’Hara’s absence. Many starting players had outstanding tournaments as well. Megan Rapinoe removed all doubt that she is still a world-class player, Christen Press reached 9th on the the all-time American goal list, and Debinha continues to show that she is arguably the world’s most dynamic player.

Speaking of the Brazilian team, they looked particularly dangerous, as younger players such as Geyse, Júlia Bianchi, Andressinha and Ivana Fuso, guided by legendary coach Pia Sundhage, proved they are ready to take this team to the next level. 

Overall, hats off to the US Soccer Federation for putting on a memorable tournament and ensuring all four of these federations played games in early 2021, all while keeping safety and health a top priority. It was our privilege to watch these teams for the past week, and we look forward to seeing the USA, Canada and Brazil at the rescheduled 2020 Olympics in Tokyo. Until then, we look forward to the NWSL Challenge Cup, which kicks off on April 9th.

Photography by Andrea Vílchez.