The summer of soccer is in full swing with major tournaments and crucial matches dominating the schedule. While the Gold Cup and Club World Cup approach their concluding stages, another significant competition is set to commence: the Women`s Euros in Switzerland, featuring 16 of Europe`s top national teams. This busy week also includes a high-profile friendly match for the U.S. women`s national team against Canada.
Upcoming Matches
- Women`s Euro: Iceland vs. Finland
- Women`s Euro: Switzerland vs. Norway
- Gold Cup Semifinal: USMNT vs. Guatemala
- Women`s friendly: USWNT vs. Canada
- Gold Cup Semifinal: Mexico vs. Honduras
- Women`s Euro: Belgium vs. Italy
- Women`s Euro: Spain vs. Portugal
- MLS: New York City FC vs. Toronto FC
Defining Moments for USMNT and USWNT
The U.S. men`s national team is poised to take center stage this week as they face Guatemala in the Concacaf Gold Cup semifinals. Although history and expectations favor Mauricio Pochettino`s squad, the current edition of the Gold Cup has been marked by surprises, offering the USMNT a chance to deliver a powerful statement in St. Louis.
The USMNT advanced to the semifinals after a hard-fought penalty shootout victory over Costa Rica. This challenging win on Sunday is arguably the first significant, gritty triumph of Pochettino`s tenure. He has entrusted the pursuit of the USMNT`s first Gold Cup title in four years to a relatively inexperienced group. Several young players are starting to prove their worth, with Malik Tillman standing out. In the match against Costa Rica, goalkeeper Matt Freese, defender Max Arfsten, and midfielder Diego Luna also showcased their potential.
As the team heads into the semifinals, the crucial question is whether they can build on the positives from Sunday`s performance to generate genuine upward momentum and inspire optimism after a year of inconsistent results. The focus remains on individual players who are vying for a regular spot in the senior squad later this year, all with an eye on the upcoming World Cup roster.
Meanwhile, in Washington, D.C., the U.S. women`s national team is undergoing a similar phase of evaluation during their friendly against Canada, albeit with different stakes. Head coach Emma Hayes has designated this friendly as the conclusion of her extensive project to explore the depth of the USWNT player pool. This gives a final opportunity for a group of young talents to impress, as Hayes will spend the next two years building team chemistry in preparation for the Women`s World Cup. Hayes will have an abundance of strong options across various positions. A particularly interesting aspect to watch is the competition to potentially succeed Alyssa Naeher as the USWNT`s primary goalkeeper. Mandy McGlynn and Claudia Dickey each started recent games against Ireland, while Angelina Anderson is also part of the goalkeeping roster for this camp.
Major Tournament Updates: Women`s Euros and Club World Cup
The summer`s schedule of major international tournaments ramps up significantly with the opening of the Women`s Euros. This event is anticipated to further highlight the growth of women`s soccer in Europe. Several teams have a realistic chance at the title. Reigning world champions Spain are contenders, aiming for their first Euros title to build on their World Cup success. A resurgent Germany, who won bronze at the last Olympics, is also in the mix. However, many experts, including Sandra Herrera, consider England the favorite, placing them at the top of pre-tournament power rankings.
As Herrera notes, “Led by head coach Sarina Wiegman, the Lionesses are defending champions and have earned the honor of being the top-ranked team to begin the tournament. Despite the international retirements of Mary Earps and Fran Kirby, and the withdrawal of Millie Bright, there`s still plenty of holdovers from the 2022 championship-winning side to make another deep run in the tournament. There are question marks around the goalkeeping position, but that`s just an opportunity for Hannah Hampton to shine.”
The tournament will serve as a showcase not only for Europe`s top teams but also for its best players, including established stars and those ready for a breakout performance. Spain, for example, still boasts Ballon d`Or winner Aitana Bonmati, though her availability at the start of the tournament is uncertain due to illness. Even without Bonmati potentially orchestrating play, Spain possesses strong goalscoring threats who should perform well early on. NWSL-based Esther Gonzalez is in form, and rising talent Claudia Pina is considered a potential future star who could make a significant impact in Switzerland.
Club World Cup Quarterfinals Set
Away from the action in Switzerland and the U.S., the Club World Cup confirmed its quarterfinalists before a short break. Real Madrid secured their spot on Tuesday with a 1-0 win against Juventus and are set to face Borussia Dortmund in a rematch of the 2024 UEFA Champions League final. Dortmund advanced by beating Monterrey 2-1. The anticipated clash between the Bellingham brothers will have to wait, however, as Dortmund`s Jobe is suspended for Saturday`s quarterfinal, leaving only Real Madrid`s Jude available.
The most notable upsets in the competition so far occurred on Monday. Fluminense`s 2-0 victory over Inter was a surprise waiting to happen, showcasing the strength of Brazilian teams in the tournament while Inter has struggled with form recently. Even more surprising was Al-Hilal`s thrilling 4-3 extra-time win against Manchester City. Despite City dominating with 30 shots, defensive errors proved costly. Al-Hilal is now the only team from outside Europe or South America remaining in the competition.
Additional Soccer News
- Tim Ream discusses the USMNT`s Gold Cup run and his role as an experienced player, alongside news about Matt Freese`s journey and a drone sighting at training.
- CBS Sports team predictions for the Women`s Euro winners, runners-up, and key players to watch.
- USWNT midfielder Lily Yohannes is reportedly close to a move from Ajax to OL Lyon, a significant step for the 18-year-old`s development.
- Arsenal`s transfer strategy, including their search for a left winger and the potential realism of a move for Rodrygo.
- An explanation of the ongoing drama at Inter Milan involving Lautaro Martinez, Hakan Calhanoglu, and the club president.
- A look back at some of the most disappointing big-name MLS signings, following Toronto FC`s situation with Federico Bernardeschi and Lorenzo Insigne.
Best Bets
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Club World Cup: Winners Pick
THE PICK: Real Madrid to win the Club World Cup (+270) – While Paris Saint-Germain might still be considered favorites, there`s a compelling argument for Real Madrid. Early signs under manager Xabi Alonso suggest a new-look team is clicking, blending established talent like Bellingham with new signings such as Trent Alexander-Arnold. Academy product Gonzalo Garcia has emerged as a surprise star, capitalizing on his opportunities with three goals and an assist in four games. With strong performers like Manchester City now eliminated, Real Madrid`s path to the title appears clearer.
