FIFA Women’s World Cup 2019 Tactical Analysis: France vs United States

The second match in the quarter-final brought us the clash between what’s arguably the two strongest sides in the FIFA Womens World Cup 2019. On one side, France have topped their group and remained unbeaten after an extra time win against Brazil. The host were considered as a favourite to lift the trophy and no doubt that they would want to accomplish that with their home fans.

On the other side was the United States, who were also considered as a favourite after their success in the last edition. Similar to France, they finished top of their group with a maximum of nine points. But they were closed to be eliminated by Spain, who eventually fell off the tie through Megan Rapinoe’s penalty. Their match at the spectacular Parc des Princes once again witnessed an outstanding performance from Rapinoe. Two goals in both halves set up a semi-final clash against England for the American girls. Wendie Renard managed to narrow the deficit at the 81^st minute, but it was too little, too late for the host.

This tactical analysis will take a look at how Jill Ellis’ side came out with a victory. Meanwhile, using statistics, we will also analyse the tactical errors that cost Corinne Diacre’s side a place in the semi-final.

Lineups

France lined up in a 4-3-3 formation with the veteran keeper Sarah Bouhaddi in goal. Diacre went for her usual back four as Amel Majri and Marion Torrent providing width while Mbock Bathy Nka and Wendie Renard occupied the central spots. Amandine Henry continued to captain the side and she played alongside Elise Bussaglia and Gaetane Thiney in the midfield. Up front, the consistent starters Eugenie Le Sommer and Kadidiatou Diani would provide the goals with Valerie Gauvin.

The USA also went for their usual 4-3-3. An unchanged backline starting with Alyssa Naeher in goal, Becky Sauerbrunn and Abby Dahlkemper as centre-backs, Crystal Dunn and Kelley O’Hara occupied the full-back spots. In front of them was Julie Ertz, who would provide a cover for the defenders. Alongside Ertz were midfielders Samantha Mewis and Rose Lavelle playing slightly higher than her. Up front, Carli Lloyd was dropped to the bench, replacing her was Alex Morgan. Playing as wingers were another two key players Megan Rapinoe and Tobin Heath.

United States style of play

On the statistical perspective, the USA were not as good as the host. They only registered ten shots towards Frances goal, while Naeher had to face twice as much. Also, Ellis side only held 40% of the ball possession and their passing accuracy was 66%. But they had the one factor that helped them qualify for the next round. With eight attempts on target and two of them were converted into goals, they have stunned France while dominated the game.

When on possession, they have the tendency of attacking down both flanks. As both Majri and Torrent usually made overlaps, they created vulnerable spaces inside their own half. This allowed the USAs wingers to utilise and start a counter-attack.