The defense should remain the same, though Crystal Dunn (if part of roster) would be more effective over Ali Krieger in moving the ball up the right side.
Morgan Brian plays the Javier Mascherano role, sans the eventual yellow card that he'd receive.
Rapinoe and O'Hara add pace and one-on-one attacking strength on their respective sides.
Press plays a role like Messi where she's a natural forward, but is needed to beat a midfielder or defender or two at the beginning of the final third of the field to create chances for her forwards or to take a shot on target.
Morgan and Leroux press the Japanese defense up high to prevent easy distribution, and need to be willing passers around the box as USA construct give-and-go attack.
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John Bonini
almost 9 years
The defense should remain the same, though Crystal Dunn (if part of roster) would be more effective over Ali Krieger in moving the ball up the right side. Morgan Brian plays the Javier Mascherano role, sans the eventual yellow card that he'd receive. Rapinoe and O'Hara add pace and one-on-one attacking strength on their respective sides. Press plays a role like Messi where she's a natural forward, but is needed to beat a midfielder or defender or two at the beginning of the final third of the field to create chances for her forwards or to take a shot on target. Morgan and Leroux press the Japanese defense up high to prevent easy distribution, and need to be willing passers around the box as USA construct give-and-go attack.