The U.S. Women’s National Team play their final game before World Cup qualifying on Tuesday night, a rematch against Chile.
After beating Chile on Friday night, the USWNT have just one more game, a rematch against Chile, before World Cup qualifiers begin in October. While head coach Jill Ellis definitely has an idea of who will start come the October tournament, there’s still room for players to catch her eye. Here are three to keep an eye on in Tuesday’s match.
Center-back: Tierna Davidson
Tierna Davidson has had quite the 2018. The 19 year-old made her debut for the senior team on Jan. 21 against Denmark. Since then, she has picked up 11 caps and on Friday, scored her first career goal. The Stanford junior was originally called up when Becky Sauerbrunn was sidelined with a foot injury. Since then, the two have featured as center-back partners and excelled together.
While Davidson still has a lot to learn when it comes to playing at the highest level, she has proved herself worthy of a roster spot come qualifiers. Ellis seems to favor her in the middle over more experienced center-backs such as Emily Sonnett. An impressive showing in the final game against Chile could really help raise her stock within the player pool.
Winger: Tobin Heath
Last Monday, it was announced Megan Rapinoe wouldn’t be in camp due to a rib injury, leaving a big void, particularly on set pieces. While Heath was always likely to take on those responsibilities, it was harder to say how she would handle them. Boy did she impress.
The U.S. were given a plethora of corner kicks, especially in the first half on Friday. Of the 10 that were taken, two resulted in goals, in part because of the services from Heath. If Heath’s delivery is equally good on Tuesday, she may even take set pieces away from Rapinoe upon the latter’s return.
Midfielder: Rose Lavelle
For the first time in a while, Rose Lavelle looked like herself on Friday night. Now appearing to be close to 100 percent again, Lavelle was taking on defenders and distributing well to those making runs in front of her. As the more attacking-minded midfielder of the triangle on Friday, Lavelle gave a little flair to the game and really was fun to watch. This final game will be very important to see where Lavelle ends up in Ellis’ lineup come October.