Alex Morgan, Monica, Camila, and Marta all featured for their countries in last night’s Tournament of Nations match between the USWNT and Brazil. These Orlando Pride players contributed to what was undoubtedly the match of the tournament thus far. The United States made a late comeback to beat Brazil 4-3 and keep their hopes alive of winning the first ever Tournament of Nations.
Steph Catley and Alanna Kennedy were also in action yesterday in Australia’s 4-2 win over Japan. Australia is on top of the competition’s standings with two wins in two matches against the U.S. and Japan. A Sam Kerr hat-trick and stingy defending from the likes of Catley and Kennedy allowed the Matildas to coast to a comfortable victory over the 2015 World Cup finalists.
These top-quality matches have not only given us breathtaking soccer to watch, they have shown why the NWSL is quickly becoming the world’s elite women’s soccer league. Over the past two or three years there has been an influx of international talent into the NWSL. Players like Marta and Sam Kerr are prime examples of that -- and their presence has brought additional spotlight to the NWSL. There are more international players playing in America than ever before; enhancing NWSL competition which was already comprised of top American players who have led the charge of USWNT success on the world stage.
The NWSL is currently on a break to accommodate the ongoing women’s international competitions: UEFA Women’s Euro and Tournament of Nations. NWSL matches will resume once the international break is over this week.
Orlando faces off against Christen Press and the Chicago Red Stars in the Pride’s first match following the international break. Kickoff is set for 7:30 p.m. ET on August 5th at Orlando City Stadium.
