At the Paris Olympics, which officially begin July 26 and conclude Aug. 11, the United States Women's National Soccer Team aims to bring home its fifth Olympic gold medal. With global women's soccer at the height of its parity, this could be one of the USWNT's most difficult tournaments.
Here are frequently asked questions before the tournament begins Wednesday, two days before the opening ceremonies. When do the Americans open in the Olympics? The USWNT, which is in a group with Australia and Germany, opens its gold-medal campaign against Zambia on Thursday at 3 p.m.
ET., a day before the opening ceremonies. The Americans must get off to a strong start against the African country, which recently reached its all-time highest world ranking at No.
64 and has one of the hottest strikers in the world, Barbra Banda. The Orlando Pride star has 12 goals in the National Women's Soccer League this season, good for a league-high 1.18 goals per 90 minutes.
It's Banda-monium in LA! pic.twitter.com/NfLJO5bUcO Who are the Americans' top scorers? New head coach Emma Hayes' roster has strong attacking talent in Trinity Rodman, Sophia Smith and Jaedyn Shaw, who should give opponents headaches.
The USWNT’s best scorer, however, is Chicago Red Stars forward Mallory Swanson. Her speed, combined with her ability on the ball, gives the United States a versatile weapon. In the NWSL, she has seven goals with three assists.
Mal Swanson putting on a skills show with this goal pic.twitter.com/7x2.