Despite barely escaping with a 2-1 semi-finals win over England, Megan Rapinoe and Rose Lavelle’s potential absences could prove vital in the USWNT’s hopes of winning another Women’s World Cup.
On Tuesday, the USWNT punched a ticket to its third-straight Women’s World Cup final with a 2-1 win over England. Two first-half goals from Christen Press and Alex Morgan proved vital as Ellen White’s goal was not enough for the three lionesses. The U.S. will face the winner between Sweden and the Netherlands in Lyon on Sunday.
Unfortunately, this win did not come without major injury concerns for the Americans. The biggest question leading into Sunday’s final is the status of two injured U.S. stars. Megan Rapinoe did not play after suffering a hamstring injury.
In a bruising game, several players needed attention throughout the second half. Sam Mewis replaced Lavelle, who limped off in the 65th minute, also with a likely hamstring injury.
Lavelle’s absence opened up England’s scoring chances, including a goal that VAR ruled offside and a penalty that U.S. goalkeeper Alyssa Naeher saved. With Lavelle’s injury, the U.S. may need Mewis to box the midfield.
After the game, Rapinoe told Jenny Taft that she does have a minor hamstring injury, but may play in Sunday’s final.
Whether if Rapinoe or Lavelle play in Sunday’s final, U.S. coach Jill Ellis should have plenty of options to fill potential holes. Press scored a goal and provided plenty of scoring chances and defensive cover throughout the match.
With the final on Sunday, Rapinoe and Lavelle will not have much time to recover from their hamstring injuries. The only good thing for the USWNT is the incredible depth and versatility of the whole roster.