When the United States won the 2019 Women’s World Cup, they did so with a team certain of their identity, one that pressured opponents into submission early in each match. The Americans scored in the 12th minute or earlier in each of their first six games of that campaign. A defining characteristic of the USA in that era was their high press and counter-press after losing possession. It was suffocating and relentless – and it forced some of the best teams in the world to panic.
Since taking over after that World Cup, head coach Vlatko Andonovski has attempted to add nuance to the team’s style. They still press high – just not as often. Now, the US drop off at times and let their opponents play. Thursday’s 1-1 draw with the Netherlands brought to fore the realities of that double-edged sword.
