3 potential USWNT opponents they could play in the Round of 16

With the USWNT already through to the knockout round at the Women’s World Cup, it’s time to look at the three teams they could face in the round of 16.

As the United States prepares for Thursday’s much-anticipated match against Sweden to cap off the group stage, an eye towards who’s next isn’t far from the minds of players and the coaching staff.

There are several scenarios that can unfold over the next few days that would see the U.S. face either Spain, the Netherlands or Canada. Spain (arguably the weakest of these three) would happen should the U.S. defeat or draw Sweden to win the group.

Should the Americans lose, they would play either the Netherlands, the defending European champions, or rivals Canada. Both those teams would be more of a challenge given their history and success thus far at the World Cup.

Here’s a look at the three teams the U.S. could face in the round of 16.

3. Spain

This, as stated, is the easiest of the three potential opponents. The rub here is that this side of the bracket put the U.S. on course to play France should both teams advance to that stage.

Spain, in only their second World Cup, has advanced to the knockout stage for the very first time. Spain is one of those country’s that have had a meteoric rise in women’s soccer. Spain has had some strong games this year, including just a 1-0 defeat to the United States in a friendly this past January.

The key player for them has been striker Vicky Losada. Spain has all the markings of a potential Cinderella team.

2. Netherlands

The Dutch are the reigning European champions and they are hoping to go on a deep run. A dark horse, the Netherlands are like Spain. They have a long history of success in the men’s game and have only had success with female players in recent years.

The Dutch also have loads of fans following them around France. That has given them home field advantage at this tournament, much in the same way Americans fans have done for the USMNT.

The key player for them has been striker Vivianne Miedema. The best finish at a Women’s World Cup for the Dutch came in 2015 when they reached the round of 16 at their first tournament appearance.

1. Canada

The USWNT are very familiar with their neighbors from the north. The Canadians have a long history of success at women’s soccer but have always played second fiddle to the United States.

The team’s best finish at a World Cup, however, dates back to 2003 when they finished fourth. Striker Christine Sinclair, who turned 36 earlier at this World Cup, is the heart and soul of this team.

The U.S. and Canada have a history of bad blood as well. At the 2012 London Olympics, the USWNT defeated Canada 4-3 in the semifinals, snatching victory in the 122nd minute on an Alex Morgan goal to cap off a controversial game.

While these three countries have varying degrees of talent, no opponent is easy once you get to the round of the 16. The United States, after a 2-0 start with big wins against Thailand and Chile, are the defending champions. They will need to replicate that 2015 form if they want to lift the trophy on July 7.