The U.S. women’s national team moves on to the round of 16 at the 2023 Women’s World Cup, but just barely. The Americans closed out group play with a 0–0 draw against Portugal on Tuesday, heading into the knockout stage with just a single win.
Coming in as the heavy favorites and two-time defending champs, the USWNT has been aiming to be the first squad to win three straight World Cup titles (men’s or women’s). And while that’s still possible, the Americans finished second in Group E and will likely face a strong Sweden team next.
Entering Tuesday, the U.S. needed a win or draw in order to qualify for the knockout rounds. The Netherlands finished group play with strong 7–0 win over Vietnam, giving them the top spot for Group E.
