The China Chronicles: Over and Out

The U.S. WNT took third place on Sunday with a resounding 4-1 win over the familiar Norway team. Abby poached her way to the first two US goals before Chalupny and O’Reilly finished the job.

Victories in consolation matches are always bittersweet, but it was important to leave China playing our type of attacking, composed soccer. The U.S. team has learned so many lessons this September, and in the many months leading up to the competition. Reflecting on how the week’s events changed the team, Cat had this to say post-game, “We grew stronger. We took the tradition that we had on this team and I think we made it stronger today. It means a lot for me to send a Bri Scurry, a Kristine Lilly and a Christie Rampone and a Kate Markgraf out—if it’s their last World Cup—to send them out on this kind of note. As a young team we learned that tradition does matter and we need to carry it as much as we can.” Good to know the future leaders of the WNT understand that one loss doesn’t erase nearly two decades of dominance.

The squad is now getting ready to come home for a three-game October sendoff tour against Mexico. If you happen to be near St. Louis, Portland or Albuquerque, try your best to give our US team the welcome home they deserve.