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[quote=Anonymous][quote=Anonymous][quote=Anonymous][quote=Anonymous]It's striking how little interest there seems to be outside of discussing the USWNT in what has been an amazing tournament. This morning's game was another close one, with late drama, including another goal scored by Spain's 19-year-old super sub.

Can't wait until tomorrow morning, when I will be rooting for the Matildas to continue their storybook run. [/quote]

+1. I was expecting Sweden to wear Spain down, which is what they did for 2/3 of the game to Japan. Even though Japan had looked better than Spain in possessing the ball and launching slick-passing attacks, at least the early stage of the tournament. The difference I thought is that Spain is not just technical and slick in their passing, they are also (a) physically strong and fast in key positions, (b) able to adapt tactics and playing XI from match to match.

Against Sweden and Netherlands, I thought Spain's approach was similar to their men's team in 2010. Dominate the midfield with superior technical skills, rapid ball recovery and passing. But not go forward in big numbers so that they remain secure at the back against the counter. Possession itself becomes a defensive strategy, and the lack of shots on goal is deceptive because the control of the game is what they are after to win what they know will be a tight game. The CBs were great 1-on-1, the fullbacks were hardworking and didn't bomb forward without someone (a mid) covering them and/or the other full back staying back to create a 3-back, and the 6 (wearing jersey #3) I thought was the underappreciated best player of the game today. When the half-fit Putellas (who showed some nice skills in the 1st half and helped the midfield control the game) was replaced around the 55th by the 19yo from Barca, it was exactly the right move as she could run at tiring defenders and provide an outlet upfront. Really enjoyed the game. Sweden played a good game as well. Tactics were spot-on, and with a bit of luck they could have won just like they did in the earlier rounds.

Couldn't help thinking (once again) that the USWNT was badly undone by the boneheaded coach's refusal to use subs strategically. Both Sweden and Spain, along with every other surviving team, have been doing it so well. There is a plan and pattern to their subbing, as well as flexibility. Subbing in a knockout stage of a WC is not a passive thing that one does only when forced to (injury or stamina or someone not playing well). It is done to change the balance of a game, make a tactical switch or to use your resources maximally.

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Great semi-final. I'm impressed by the players' willingness to take long shots and that the shots are going in!

I've only read a bit on the Spain coach issues. I wish the situation was better for the players and those who were originally on the team. [/quote]

Agreed. I can't help but wonder how the players who opted out feel now that the team is in the finals and might actually win. [/quote]

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