That World Cup hangover hasn’t disappeared just yet for the United States women’s national team. The USWNT and Colombia played to a 0-0 draw Thursday in the first of two friendlies between the two sides, with the second taking place on Sunday in San Diego. The match bore a strong resemblance to what the world saw from the U.S. at the most recent FIFA Women’s World Cup: the good, the bad and the ugly of that.
The vibe was certainly different when compared to the pair of friendlies the U.S. played against South Africa last month. In those matches it was all sweetness and light and smiles as the USWNT collectively celebrated the stellar careers of Julie Ertz and Megan Rapinoe. As such, the U.S. looked relaxed — though not entirely sharp — on the way to a pair of victories by a combined score of 5-0.
– Stream on ESPN+: LaLiga, Bundesliga, more (U.S.)
On Thursday, without the celebratory mood, the U.S. veered closer to their disappointing showing in Australia and New Zealand when the defending champion was eliminated in the round of 16. Certainly Colombia had something to do with that. Their performance at the World Cup, where Las Cafeteras reached…
