Portugal vs USA
Women’s World Cup
Group E
Tuesday
1st August 2023
Eden Park
Preview, analysis and predictions for the Group E Women’s World Cup fixture between Portugal and USA.
Portugal form analysis
Telma Encarnação emerged as the standout goal scorer for Portugal, playing a pivotal role in their successes during both friendly matches and the FIFA Women’s World Cup. Her goal-scoring prowess was a significant factor in Portugal’s achievements on the international stage.
One notable highlight of Portugal’s performance was their impressive defensive display against England, where they managed to keep a clean sheet against a formidable opponent. This defensive solidity showcased their ability to stand strong against strong teams.
In friendly matches, Portugal experienced a mixed bag of results. They secured a draw against Wales, clinched a victory against Ukraine, and played out a goalless draw against England. These matches highlighted Portugal’s competitiveness and ability to hold their ground against varied opponents.
During the FIFA Women’s World Cup, Portugal faced a closely contested match against the Netherlands, demonstrating their capability to compete with top teams at the international level. While it ended in defeat, the match showcased Portugal’s resilience and determination.
Portugal’s attacking prowess was evident in their comfortable 2-0 victory against Vietnam in the World Cup. Their ability to find the back of the net efficiently displayed their attacking strength.
USA form analysis
In a string of friendlies held in April and July, the United States left no doubt about their ambitions on the world stage. On April 8, they kicked things off in Austin, Texas, with a convincing 2-0 victory against the Republic of Ireland. The U.S. women displayed their attacking flair, putting the Irish defense to the sword with well-coordinated play and clinical finishing.
Continuing their friendly exploits, the team traveled to St. Louis, Missouri, where they faced the Republic of Ireland once again on April 11. Despite a spirited fight from the Irish side, the United States emerged triumphant, edging them out with a slender 1-0 victory.
The United States’ dominance extended into July as they hosted Wales in San Jose, California. In front of an enthusiastic home crowd, the U.S. women showcased their class, earning a commanding 2-0 win.
As the World Cup loomed, the United States carried their impressive form to New Zealand, setting their sights on the coveted title. In their opening World Cup Group Stage match against Vietnam on July 21, they left nothing to chance. The Stars and Stripes put on a show, firing three goals past the Vietnamese defense, while expertly shutting down their opponents.
A highly-anticipated clash awaited them on July 26 when they locked horns with the Netherlands in Wellington, New Zealand. In a closely-fought battle, the match ended in a 1-1 draw.
Portugal vs USA: Predictions
The USWNT despite their disappointing draw against the Netherlands in their previous game are still the favorites for this tournament. Portugal meanwhile, showed their resilience in the tough fought loss against the Dutch.
The Stars and Stripes are mostly likely to win this contest. However, leading into this game, Portugal have the capability to make them earn their win. I also don’t see many goals from this fixture.
