The U.S. women get an early look at their next two group stage opponents as the Netherlands and Portugal meet on Sunday in New Zealand.
Tournament favorites USA won 3-0 over Vietnam in their opener, and the other half of Group E now takes the field as the two European participants amongst the quadrumvirate match up.
The Dutch came so close to glory four years ago, taking down Japan, Italy, and Sweden en route to the Women’s World Cup final, where they would fall decisively to the United States. In truth, the path was devoid of true top opponents, as Germany, England, France, Brazil, Spain, and Canada were all sent packing by other nations.
Still, they remain near the upper echelon of women’s football royalty, and have won five straight against Portugal, who are much newer to the scene. Ranked 21st in the world, Portugal are competing in the Women’s World Cup for the first time, a surprise to some given the historical strength of their men’s squad.
MORE: Live Blog: Netherlands vs Portugal
Netherlands vs Portugal match facts
- Date: Sunday, July 23
- Kickoff Time: 3:30 a.m. ET / 8:30 a.m. BST / 5:30 p.m. AEST
- Location: Dunedin Stadium (Dunedin, New Zealand)
- Official: Kateryna Monzul (UKR)
- Last meeting: Netherlands 3-2 Portugal (Jul. 13, 2022) | UEFA Women’s Euro…
