When do USA women play next? World Cup schedule and…

When do USA women play next? World Cup schedule and route to the final

The United States survived an almighty scare to advance from the Women’s World Cup group stage - keeping alive hopes of a third successive title.

Portugal hit the post late to ensure the United States avoided an early exit at the group stages.

The defending champions opened their campaign with a 3-0 victory against Vietnam but were held to a 1-1 draw by the Netherlands, in what was a rematch of their 2019 World Cup final.

And the goalless draw against Portugal has prompted widespread criticism back home, including from legendary American player Carli Lloyd.

The USA progress as runners-up from Group E, behind the Netherlands, who thrashed Vietnam 7-0. Here’s everything you need to know about the next match for the USA:

Who are the United States playing at the World Cup?

Group E matches up with Group G for the last 16, meaning the United States are destined to face the winners.

With Sweden top and possessing an impressive +6 goal difference after two games - 10 more than Italy in second - the USA are almost certain to play Sweden, instead of the Azzurre, South Africa or Argentina.

Sweden have already qualified for the last 16, but for USA to not face them next, they would need to lose to Argentina and Italy would need to beat South Africa, with both results combining for a 11-goal swing in the goal difference column.

That last 16 tie, likely between USA and Swede will take place in Melbourne at the Rectangular Stadium on 6 August, kick-off is scheduled for 5am ET (10am BST).

The winner will play the winner of Japan vs Norway in Auckland on 11 August.