Even though the United States’ archrival is Canada, Brazil comes close. The matchups between the two have resulted in the most thrilling of competitions, namely the 2011 Women’s World Cup Quarterfinal. Today’s high stakes match for first place in the She Believes standings delivered the level of intensity that everyone was looking forward to with an exciting 2-0 USWNT victory.

The first half was eventful. Both sides had multiple opportunities but Brazil was unable to convert. The Americans broke through Brazil’s backline, pressuring Brazilian goalkeeper Barbara. On the other side, the right side of the USWNT’s backline faltered. Debinha, Marta, and Andressa were all able to infiltrate the American box. Though Brazil was unable to convert their shots into goals, their pressure was unrelenting. A goal in the 11th minute from Manchester United’s Christen Press set the tone for a lively and competitive match.

In the second half, both sides came out flying. Christen Press led the attack for the Americans, dribbling through three Brazilian defenders in the first minute of the second half. On the midfield line, Lindsey Horan, and Rose Lavelle were highly effective, playing provider and also springing attacks of their own. Despite spurts of connectivity on the attacking end, the American defense continued to falter. Brazil was able to expose the left side of the field multiple times but a save from Alyssa Naeher in the 55th minute preserved the USWNT’s narrow lead over Brazil.

Carli Lloyd and Megan Rapinoe came on in the 71st minute replacing Christen Press and Alex Morgan, another showing of the United States’ embarrassment of riches. However, neither team created much and their substitutions were somewhat ineffective. A sliding shot from Debinha in the 82nd minute was Brazil’s best opportunity of the match but veered wide. 2019 Women’s World Cup Golden Boot winner Megan Rapinoe put the nail in Brazil’s coffin with a goal in the 88th minute off of Lindsey Horan’s service.

Coming off of a pregnancy and COVID-19, Alex Morgan made her first start of 2021 on her home pitch. Morgan spearheaded the attack for the United States alongside Rose Lavelle, Christen Press, and Lynn Williams.

Who should start against Argentina?

A United States victory against Argentina would lock up their 4th She Believes Cup title.

GOALKEEPER - Alyssa Naeher DEFENDERS - Abby Dahlkemper, Becky Sauerbrunn, Crystal Dunn, and Kelley O’Hara (if she is healthy) MIDFIELDERS - Rose Lavelle, Lindsey Horan, and Julie Ertz
FORWARDS - Christen Press, Alex Morgan, and Megan Rapinoe