Olympic Women's Football: USA vs Australia Match Preview

7/27/2021 9:50:59 AM

USA vs Australia Women's Football - Preview
 

USA vs Australia: A High-Stakes Final Group Match
 

As the group stage of the Tokyo 2020 Olympic Women’s Football tournament wraps up, all eyes are on the thrilling match-up between the United States and Australia. With both teams eager to secure a spot in the knockout stages, this clash is more than just a formality — it’s a battle for survival and seeding.
 

USA vs Australia Women's Football |  Tokyo Olympics 2020
 

Team USA: Bouncing Back with a Bang
 

The U.S. Women’s National Team (USWNT), reigning champions of the 2019 FIFA Women's World Cup, entered the Olympics as the hot favorites to win gold. However, they were stunned in their opening match with a 0-3 defeat to Sweden — the same team that knocked them out of the quarterfinals at Rio 2016.


Despite the early upset, the USWNT bounced back in style, thrashing New Zealand 6-1 in their second group game. With their 44-match unbeaten streak now snapped, the team is playing with renewed urgency. A draw against Australia could be enough to secure their progression, but knowing the US squad, they’ll be aiming for all three points.
 

Australia: Fighting to Advance

 

Australia’s Matildas, ranked 9th in the world and 1st in Asia, have had a mixed group stage performance so far. They started strong with a 2-1 win over New Zealand but struggled defensively in their second game, falling 2-4 to Sweden despite leading the match at one point.


Led by standout forward Sam Kerr, who continues to be a goal-scoring threat, Australia must now beat the U.S. to guarantee a second-place finish in the group. Anything less might leave their Olympic hopes in jeopardy, depending on goal difference and results elsewhere.

 

What to Watch
 

  • Can the U.S. maintain its offensive momentum?
    After a dominating performance against New Zealand, the USWNT will look to keep the goals flowing against Australia.

  • Will Sam Kerr shine again for Australia?
    The Chelsea striker is Australia’s biggest weapon and will need to be at her best to unlock the American defense.

  • Defensive discipline will be key
    Both teams have shown vulnerability at the back. The side that stays organized defensively will likely come out on top.
     

Head-to-Head Stats
 

  • Last 5 Meetings: USA leads with 4 wins, 1 draw

  • Most recent match: USA 5-3 Australia (2019)

  • Olympic encounters: The USA has historically had the edge
     

Prediction
 

Expect a fiery contest with both teams looking to prove a point. With their depth and experience, the USA might edge it, but Australia’s attacking talent means it won’t be a walk in the park.

Predicted Score: USA 3 - 2 Australia