The United State Women’s National Team (USWNT) has been on an incredible winning streak recently, recording wins against Iceland twice with scorelines of 3-1 each time and Argentina three times during their October camp camp in Argentina. Their impressive 12 straight matches wins painted an impression of dominance; yet Sam Mewis raised some concerns regarding midfield play during one match against Iceland that might give insight to future results.
Mewis has made observations regarding how the midfield seemed disjointed at times during a game against Iceland, especially evident during her podcast called ‘The Women’s Game.’ Mewis expressed discontentment with their center half display; positioning issues often left their defense vulnerable against Iceland attacks; in particular she pointed to Corbin Albert and Sam Coffey being passed past with ease, leaving their backline exposed against attacking runs by Icelanders. Mewis suggested the midfield should have provided greater support, hinting that their failure to initiate play was indicative of these shortcomings in support from midfield; something they are normally known for.
In a pivotal match, the USWNT found themselves trailing for the first time under Hayes’s tenure, with Iceland leading in the first half. The integration of new players was one factor, but the midfield’s underperformance played a significant role in this vulnerability. Despite the successful outcomes, Mewis believes that rectifying these midfield issues is imperative for sustained success.
Mewis Offers Strategic Insights for USWNT’s Midfield
Drawing from her extensive experience as a midfielder, Mewis provided valuable advice on how the USWNT’s midfield could enhance their game. She stressed the importance of defensive duties such as protecting the back line, intercepting passes, tackling, and stopping transitions. Mewis advocates for a higher defensive line to regain possession more effectively.
Mewis recommends the midfield play a more proactive role in initiating plays from deeper positions on offense. She highlighted center-backs and outside backs as being too reliant upon them for playmaking duties; such individuals might benefit more from forward passing being handled by midfielders like Sam Coffey who excels at forward passes; thus Mewis suggests midfielders like Sam should play more of a part.
Mewis’ insights stress the necessity of an enhanced role for midfield in orchestrating attacks rather than leaving it solely up to backline players. Emma Hayes can assist her team by improving midfield dynamics as a means to continuing its dominance on an international stage.