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The Guardian - US
The Guardian - US
Sport
Jeff Rueter

After struggles v Spain, the USWNT’s midfield puzzle won’t be easily solved

Lindsey Heaps points while gesturing, with a USA teammate behind her on the pitch
Lindsey Heaps started both of the United States’ recent friendlies against Spain. Photograph: Scott Taetsch/USSF/Getty Images

The discourse around the US women’s national team may have been a harsh one if not for a fourth-half surge against Spain.

In the latest of their back-to-back bookings, where Emma Hayes’ team plays the same opponent twice, Spain looked far more confident and effective than the four-time champions. Both teams were missing a handful of crucial players; Naomi Girma and Sam Coffey headlining the US’s absentees, while Aitana Bonmatí, Mariona Caldentey and Clàudia Pina were among Spain’s.

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