Megan Rapinoe will not start in USWNT semifinal vs. England

The U.S. lineup will not have Megan Rapinoe in the starting lineup for the Women’s World Cup semifinals game against England.

In what was the World Cup’s biggest lineup surprise, U.S. forward Megan Rapinoe will not start against England in Lyon. The U.S. front trio will instead consist now of Christen Press, Alex Morgan and Tobin Heath.

There was no definite word from the USWNT explaining Rapinoe’s absence. However, during USWNT’s warm-up, Fox Sports’ Aly Wagner tweeted a video that didn’t show Rapinoe warming up with her teammates. Additionally, ESPN analyst Julie Foudy suggested that the decision was not tactical and that Rapinoe may be injured.

Rapinoe recorded back-to-back braces in her last two matches against Spain and England. Press has not scored a goal in France and only started in a 3-0 win against Chile.

For the U.S., Rapinoe’s absence could be felt more on set pieces, where her creativity and craft could break down England’s defense. Without Rapinoe, the U.S. will not have its best penalty kick specialist.

At this stage of her career, Rapinoe does not track back on defense. Press gives the Americans more pace and defense cover to stop England’s attack, particularly with Lucy Bronze’s crosses.

Jill Ellis also broke up the midfield that largely controlled France’s lethal attack in Friday’s quarterfinals victory. Lindsey Horan replaced Sam Mewis out of the U.S. midfield after her strong performances against Spain and France.

In the World Cup’s biggest games, bench players may have a chance to get famous with one sterling performance. Press could put her name among U.S. heroes with a goal or important play.