The summer of soccer remains busy as the Gold Cup and Club World Cup approach their conclusions, while the Women`s Euros also kick off in Switzerland, featuring 16 top national teams. This packed week includes a significant friendly match for the U.S. women`s national team against Canada.
Defining Moments for USMNT and USWNT
The U.S. men`s national team is set to play Guatemala in the Concacaf Gold Cup semifinals. While favored, this Gold Cup has seen upsets, presenting an opportunity for the USMNT to make a strong statement under Mauricio Pochettino.
Their path to the semifinals included a hard-fought penalty shootout victory against Costa Rica, marking a significant win for Pochettino`s relatively inexperienced squad. This team features young players looking to prove themselves, including standout Malik Tillman and recent contributors like goalkeeper Matt Freese, defender Max Arfsten, and midfielder Diego Luna.
The key question is whether the team can build on recent positive performances to generate momentum and optimism following a period of inconsistent results. Individual players are also vying for positions on the roster, with an eye on future competitions like the World Cup.
Similarly, the U.S. women`s national team is using a friendly against Canada to conclude coach Emma Hayes` extensive evaluation of the player pool. This match provides a final opportunity for young players to make an impression as Hayes focuses on building team chemistry over the next two years towards the Women`s World Cup. Competition for roster spots is strong, notably for the starting goalkeeper position, with Mandy McGlynn, Claudia Dickey, and Angelina Anderson being evaluated.
Women`s Euros Kick Off, Club World Cup Quarterfinals Set
The Women`s Euros have commenced in Switzerland, highlighting the sport`s growth with a competitive field. Reigning world champions Spain are strong contenders aiming for their first European title, while Germany seeks to build on recent success. Some analysts, however, consider England the favorites.
The defending champions, led by Sarina Wiegman, are highly ranked despite some player retirements and withdrawals. While there are questions in goalkeeping, the core of the 2022 winning team remains, offering an opportunity for players like Hannah Hampton to step up.
The Euros also showcase Europe`s top players, including established stars and potential breakouts. Spain features Ballon d`Or winner Aitana Bonmati, whose fitness is being monitored, but the squad has other strong attacking options like Esther Gonzalez and promising young talent such as Claudia Pina, who is seen as a potential future star.
Attention is also on the Club World Cup, where the quarterfinals are now set. Real Madrid advanced by defeating Juventus and will face Borussia Dortmund in a rematch of the recent Champions League final. The anticipated matchup between the Bellingham brothers won`t happen yet, as Dortmund`s Jobe Bellingham is suspended.
The tournament has also featured surprises. Fluminense defeated Inter Milan, while Al-Hilal caused a major upset by beating Manchester City in extra time. Al-Hilal is now the sole non-European/South American team remaining.
