Win, lose or draw: How USWNT can advance to World Cup knockout rounds, avoid embarrassment
No one said it was going to be easy.
The U.S. women's soccer team is looking to avoid being on the wrong side of history at the 2023 World Cup. In order to do that, the Americans will have to bounce back from a 1-1 draw against the Netherlands.
"It’s just a little unfortunate that now first place in the group is up for grabs," USWNT forward Alex Morgan said.
The USWNT, who are two-time defending champions, has never before found itself in such a precarious position, its future in the tournament hanging in the balance. But the Americans still very much control their own destiny heading into their final match of the group stage against Portugal.
These are the scenarios USWNT faces – win, lose or draw.
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How can USWNT advance to World Cup knockout rounds?
A win or draw against Portugal will ensure a spot in the knockout stage for the Americans.
What happens if USA loses to Portugal?
The Americans could head home after the group stage at the World Cup for the first time ever at the World Cup or Olympics. The World Cup started in 1991 and the Olympic tournament followed five years later.
Can USA lose to Portugal and still advance to the World Cup knockout round?
Yes, but two things would have to happen: Vietnam would have to beat the Netherlands AND score at least three goals doing so. Vietnam, which has already been eliminated from any chance of advancing beyond the group stage, has been outscored 5-0 in its first two games.
USWNT goals: How many do they need to score against Portugal?
The larger the margin of victory, the easier the road will be to the World Cup final. The Americans currently hold a plus-2 advantage in goal-differential over the Netherlands and a lopsided victory would help secure that edge.
USWNT World Cup schedule: Who’s next?
You’ll have to wake up extra early – or go to bed extra late – in order to watch the Americans take on Portugal on Tuesday. The two sides clash at 3 a.m. ET. The game will be televised on Fox.
The knockout round begins Aug. 5, when the top team from Group E will take on the No. 2 seed from Group G at 10 p.m. ET. The No. 2 seed from Group E will take on the top team from Group G on Aug. 6 at 5 a.m. ET.
Group G is Sweden, Italy, South Africa and Argentina.
Here's the full knockout round schedule.
USA TODAY Sports columnist Nancy Armour contributed to this report.