'USWNT coach Vlatko Andonovski under immense pressure following...'
The U.S. Women's National Team and coach Vlatko Andonovski are facing criticism for their underwhelming performance at the World Cup.
The U.S. Women's National Team, led by manager Vlatko Andonovski, has been disappointing in their performance at the World Cup, and Andonovski is taking the blame for it. Andonovski, who has been in charge for four years, is facing scrutiny for all of his decisions, or lack thereof, as the team enters a new era.
During a press conference on Monday, Andonovski acknowledged the pressure he has been under since taking on the role in 2019. He knew what to expect and what the expectations were.
The USWNT is aiming for a three-peat in the 2023 World Cup after winning consecutive titles in 2015 and 2019. However, their performance in the group stage this year has exposed weaknesses in the team's depth and, more importantly, the manager's ability to prepare the players.
Their 0-0 draw with Portugal on Tuesday morning barely secured them a spot in the Round of 16, after a lackluster performance on the field. Andonovski admitted that the team did not play well, but they qualified for the next round and are moving forward.
Andonovski made changes to the starting 11 for the next game, replacing Trinity Rodman with Lynn Williams and swapping Rose Lavelle for Savannah DeMelo. This decision came after failing to make effective adjustments during the 1-1 draw with the Netherlands, where he only used one substitute out of five available.
Finishing second in Group E with five points, the USWNT had their worst-ever performance in a World Cup group stage. They have been criticized for looking disjointed and lacking a game plan on the field. However, Andonovski seems to be unaffected by the criticism, as he does not have any social media and does not read anything.
After the Portugal match, veteran Kelley O'Hara took charge in the team huddle, displaying the passion and urgency that fans have been longing for. O'Hara's leadership was praised on social media, with one user stating that she should take over coaching the team.
O'Hara emphasized to the team that the group stage is over and they need to focus on the upcoming game. She acknowledged that they may not have performed as they wanted to, but advancing in the World Cup is the most important thing.
Former USWNT star Carli Lloyd, now a commentator for Fox Sports, criticized the team for their lackluster and uninspiring performance. She felt that the players were taking their success for granted and not putting in the effort to be the best individuals they can be.
Andonovski defended his team against Lloyd's comments, stating that he has never seen them step on the field without giving their all. He believes in the team's mentality and their willingness to win.
Until the USWNT can put together a cohesive and team-oriented match, Andonovski will continue to face criticism, whether he is aware of it or not.
Comments on 'USWNT coach Vlatko Andonovski under immense pressure following...'