The United States women’s national soccer team is gearing up for their first match of the 2024 Paris Olympics, taking on Zambia at the Allianz Riviera in Nice, France on July 25. This Group B clash marks the beginning of the Americans’ quest for a fifth gold medal in women’s soccer.
Match Preview
Under new head coach Emma Hayes, the USA enters the tournament with high expectations but also some uncertainty. The team is looking to bounce back after a disappointing round of 16 exit at the 2023 World Cup. Hayes, who took over after a successful stint with Chelsea, has implemented changes to rejuvenate the squad.
The Americans have shown promise in recent friendlies, winning three consecutive matches before a goalless draw against Costa Rica. Notably, the team has yet to concede a goal under Hayes’ leadership, providing a solid defensive foundation as they begin their Olympic campaign.
Zambia, known as the Copper Queens, qualified for their second consecutive Olympics through the CAF Women’s Olympic qualifying tournament. They’ll be aiming to improve upon their 2021 Olympic performance, where they managed just one point in the group stage.
Projected Lineups
Predicted USWNT Lineup (4-3-3): Girma, Nighswonger, Smith, Lavelle, Coffey, Fox, Horan, Rodman, Swanson, Davidson
Predicted Zambia Lineup (4-4-2): Siamfuko, Tembo, Mweemba, P. Zulu, Chitundu, Wilombe, H. Chanda, M. Zulu, Banda, Kundananji
Injury News
The USA squad is relatively healthy, though coach Hayes made the tough decision to leave out veteran forward Alex Morgan. For Zambia, Evarine Katongo and Susan Banda have been omitted from the 18-player squad due to injury concerns.
Where to Watch
In the United States, viewers can catch the match on USA Network, with streaming options available through Peacock, NBC Sports App, and Telemundo Deportes En Vivo. Kickoff is scheduled for 7:00 PM ET.
Live Stream and TV Schedule for Other Countries
- UK: Discovery+, Eurosport 1 UK, Eurosport Player UK.
- Canada: CBC Sports App, cbcsports.ca
- Australia: Stan Sport, 9Now
- France: Eurosport Player France, MAX
- Germany: ZDF Sport, Eurosport Player Deutschland
- Spain: Eurosport Player Spain
- Italy: Eurosport Player Italy
- Brazil: Canais Globo, SporTV
Who Will Win?
While the USA enters as heavy favorites, Olympic soccer has a history of producing surprises. The Americans’ recent form and defensive solidity give them an edge, but Zambia’s speed on the counter could pose challenges.
USA Women vs Zambia Women Prediction: USA 3-0 Zambia
The USA’s attacking firepower, led by Trinity Rodman and Sophia Smith, should prove too much for Zambia’s defense. However, expect the Copper Queens to show flashes of their potential, especially through forwards Barbra Banda and Rachael Kundananji.
Key Stats and Form
USA: WWWWD
Zambia: DWLWWD
The USA has won 4 of their last 5 matches, while Zambia has 3 wins, 1 draw, and 1 loss in their previous 5 outings.
Head-to-Head
This will be the first-ever meeting between the USA and Zambia in women’s soccer, adding an element of unpredictability to the encounter.
Group B Standings
The match marks the opening of Group B play. Other group members include Germany and Australia, both formidable opponents that the USA will face in subsequent matches.
Latest News
Emma Hayes has put her stamp on the USA squad, emphasizing youth and tactical flexibility. The omission of Alex Morgan signals a new era for the team.
For Zambia, the focus is on building upon their 2021 Olympic experience. Coach Bruce Mwape has emphasized the importance of a strong start against the USA to boost the team’s confidence for the remainder of the tournament.
As the Olympic soccer tournament kicks off, all eyes will be on Nice to see how the USA begins its gold medal quest and whether Zambia can spring a surprise on the world stage.
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