Spain Efficiency Trumps US Creativity 2-0

The two best teams in the world collided at Audi field where creativity statistics were belied by the result. Spain converted their only two clear opportunities early and held the US scoreless despite a massive difference in expected goals. Spain’s ratio was 0.43 while the US’s was 2.26. The relatively new statistic professes to indicate how effectively a team builds up by describing the probable number of goals expected.

US Coach Emma Hayes observed, “We create the most chances in world football, but finishing, we do not do that in world football. – – – I wasn’t concerned about us creating today, and I’m not concerned about us finishing. Just have to lock in, get the details right, and keep working on it.”

Sophia Wilson, whose excellent finish for an apparent goal was nullified by a correct offside call agreed, “I think that we actually created a lot. It’s just now trying to get that final piece of quality inside the box.” She further demonstrated that her return from becoming a mother was progressing nicely when she was fouled in the box for a penalty that Lily Johannes failed to convert.

Johannes was offered the chance to take the penalty kick since she grew up in the area and is among the best PK takers on the team. Her primary role on the team is similar to that played by Richie Williams of DC United years ago, a defensive workhorse who breaks up opponents’ plays and starts transition. Bringing play forward falls primarily to Rose Lavelle while Captain Lindsey Heaps covers both roles as play dictates.

The US has significant depth and talent in the attacking roles but they were slightly off in too many instances. Some of that can be attributed to Spain’s exceptional organization and rapid response in transition. Both teams fell into a 4-4-2 system on defense with roles more quickly assumed by Spain. It was a failure to mark a secondary runner that allowed Spain to score its second goal.

Hayes refused to place individual blame, “Sometimes we highlight individuals without really looking at what was the collective approach to doing something.” The defense lacking Naomi Germa and Emily Sonnet, performed quite well for much of the game with assists from the US midfielders. Claudia Dickey was composed on the ball, using both feet comfortably, a rare talent in a goalkeeper. On balance, the collective was effective in holding off a strong Spanish attack.

Looking forward to Tuesday’s rematch, the short turnaround means that Hayes is likely to switch Ashley Sanchez and Mallory Swanson into starting roles for Wilson, Trinity Rodman, and/or Alyssa Thompson, reversing Saturday’s process. Rodman saw less of the ball than she normally does, probably due to Spain’s coverage. If she comes on late on Tuesday it might imbalance Spain to good effect.

Wilson continues to adjust to post-partum with great support, “Obviously, coming back from a baby is completely different than an injury, and everybody’s body’s completely different. So, yeah, it was definitely a learning curve, and I’m feeling better and better, and definitely have the support that I need around me.” She believes she has even more to contribute, “I think getting back to playing is one thing, but to do it at the highest level is another.” A late cameo Tuesday may ratify her confidence.

Hayes believes, “We got some really, really good players. We’re a really good team, regardless of the result today. I think we’re much closer to them than we were three years ago, definitely.” If the US players can refine their flow, they may be equal with Spain on Tuesday and thereafter.

Photos by Miguel Garcia