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USWNT World Cup 2023: 5 key players who can help the US win it all

By Oliver Hunt

Apr 11, 2023; St. Louis, Missouri, USA; U.S. Womens National Team forward Sophia Smith (11) leaps past Republic of Ireland Womens National Team defender Louise Quinn (4) during the first half at CITYPARK. Mandatory Credit: Jeff Curry-USA TODAY Sports
Apr 11, 2023; St. Louis, Missouri, USA; U.S. Womens National Team forward Sophia Smith (11) leaps past Republic of Ireland Womens National Team defender Louise Quinn (4) during the first half at CITYPARK. Mandatory Credit: Jeff Curry-USA TODAY Sports /
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Apr 22, 2023; Washington, District of Columbia, USA; Washington Spirit midfielder Andi Sullivan (12) dribbles the ball against Houston Dash at Audi Field. Mandatory Credit: Geoff Burke-USA TODAY Sports
Apr 22, 2023; Washington, District of Columbia, USA; Washington Spirit midfielder Andi Sullivan (12) dribbles the ball against Houston Dash at Audi Field. Mandatory Credit: Geoff Burke-USA TODAY Sports /

Key players for the USWNT at the Women’s World Cup: 3. Andi Sullivan

Although maybe not discussed as much as other stars on this team, Andi Sullivan will absolutely be key to the United State’s success. With a midfield that has been asked lots of questions in the leadup to this tournament, Sullivan has been able to answer most of those. She’s been a consistent starter for this team, playing the holding midfielder in the coveted number six role. More importantly, her performance has been very consistent, as she steadily and calmly grounds the midfield.

Defensively she’s indispensable, skillfully winning back the ball in the attacking third, and executing essential tackles. Sullivan stops opponents’ forward momentum while acting as the key distributor to her attacking mid counterparts in Horan, Lavelle, Sanchez, and Mewis.

With the return of Julie Ertz and the addition of Savannah DeMelo, Sullivan will likely get a bit more rotation than we’re used to seeing from this team. But when Sullivan is on the field, she’s dependable and rock solid, which is something this team will surely benefit from when it comes to big games.