Vlatko Andonovski, the manager of the United States women’s soccer team, attributed the numerous missed opportunities in their inaugural match of the Women’s World Cup 2023 to nerves. Despite defeating Vietnam 3-0 in their first game at Eden Park, Auckland, the world’s top-ranking team didn’t deliver their usual sharp performance.
In the Group E game, forward Sophia Smith netted two goals and assisted captain Lindsey Horan with another.
“Nerves likely played a part,” Andonovski admitted.
Fourteen of the 23-strong squad are making their World Cup debuts in this tournament, showcasing the United States’ commitment to nurturing fresh talent. Smith, along with Naomi Girma, Emily Fox, Andi Sullivan, Savannah DeMelo, and 21-year-old forward Trinity Rodman, all marked their first World Cup appearances against Vietnam.
Alex Morgan’s penalty kick was unsuccessful in the match against Vietnam.
“I’m not overly concerned,” Andonovski reassured when questioned about the players’ nerves. He emphasized his satisfaction with the team’s style of play, especially praising Smith’s two “beautiful” goals.
He pointed out that only four of the starting eleven on Saturday – Alyssa Naeher, Crystal Dunn, Julie Ertz, and Alex Morgan – were in the final match against the Netherlands in 2019. The US team will face the Netherlands again in Wellington on Thursday.
Emphasizing the need for improvements, Andonovski admitted they need to enhance their finishing before their second group match. Despite 28 chances created, Horan only scored the third goal in the 77th minute and Morgan missed a penalty kick.
Acknowledging the team’s novelty in playing together, he said, “We had plenty of opportunities and connections, but we need to be more precise with our final shots.”
Commenting on the six penalties awarded in as many matches so far in the tournament, Andonovski said, “With all the cameras, the video assistant referee and all the angles, I’m sure they’re making the right calls.”
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Women’s World Cup 2023
What was the result of the USA vs Vietnam match at the Women’s World Cup 2023?
The USA defeated Vietnam 3-0 in their inaugural match of the Women’s World Cup 2023.
Who scored the goals for the USA in the match against Vietnam?
Sophia Smith scored two goals and assisted captain Lindsey Horan for another goal in the match against Vietnam.
Who is the coach of the USA women’s soccer team in the Women’s World Cup 2023?
Vlatko Andonovski is the coach of the USA women’s soccer team in the Women’s World Cup 2023.
How many new players are making their debut in the USA team in this World Cup?
Fourteen of the 23 players in the USA squad are making their World Cup debut in this tournament.
Which player missed a penalty in the USA vs Vietnam match?
Alex Morgan of the USA team missed a penalty in the match against Vietnam.
What was coach Vlatko Andonovski’s response to the team’s performance?
Andonovski attributed the numerous missed opportunities to nerves, but he wasn’t overly concerned. He emphasized his satisfaction with the team’s style of play and highlighted the need for improvements in their finishing.
How many penalties have been awarded so far in the tournament?
Six penalties have been awarded in as many matches so far in the Women’s World Cup 2023 tournament.
What are coach Vlatko Andonovski’s thoughts on the penalties awarded?
Andonovski believes that with all the camera technology, video assistant referees, and multiple angles available, the correct calls are being made regarding penalties.
More about Women’s World Cup 2023
- USA Women’s National Team official website
- FIFA Women’s World Cup 2023 Official Page
- Sophia Smith’s Player Profile
- Vlatko Andonovski’s Coaching Profile
- Alex Morgan’s Player Profile
- Latest News from the Women’s World Cup
6 comments
It’s always hard to shake off the nerves in the first game, specially for the new players. Hope they’re more settled for the next one. We got this!
Sophia Smith is just amazing! 2 goals on her world cup debut, that’s some talent right there. Can’t wait to see her in the next matches.
6 penalties in 6 games already? And only 2 scored? These world cup games are full of surprises. And props to Vietnam’s keeper for that save!
Not our best game, but a win’s a win. let’s keep the momentum going for the next match. USA all the way!
Wow, 14 new players in the squad, that’s a bold move by Andonovski. i hope they can step up to the challenge. Go USA!!
Concerned about our finishing, we should have scored more with 28 chances created. Come on ladies, lets work on that final shot.