Last week, the U.S. women’s national team continued their 2023 World Cup preparation with 4-0 and 5-0 wins over New Zealand. One of the benefits of these friendlies was experiencing what it’s like to play in the World Cup co-host’s backyard, and to travel between Wellington and Auckland for the games.
If all were to go according to plan this summer and the U.S. makes the final, they would play five of a possible seven tournament games in these two cities.
While New Zealand didn’t provide the sternest test, these matches did provide further insight into Vlatko Andonovski’s tactical thinking. There were new ideas and intriguing selection decisions, all of which we’ll get into here.
Vlatko uses the double pivot
One of Andonovski’s main aims since taking charge is improving the national team’s short passing game and combination play. He has maintained the 4-3-3 system but has run into problems in some games due to the midfield arrangement. Against Germany last November, there was a large disconnect between the center backs and the attacking midfielders. The passing distances were too great, making it easier for Germany to press and win the ball.
