After a convincing 3-0 victory against Vietnam in their opening match at the 2023 FIFA Women’s World Cup, the U.S. Women’s National Team (USWNT) is gearing up to face the Netherlands on July 26 at Wellington Regional Stadium in Wellington/Te Whanganui-a-Tara (1 p.m. NZT; 9 p.m. ET). This encounter will be a rematch of the 2019 Women’s World Cup Final, and it’s the first time in the history of the FIFA Women’s World Cup that the two finalists from the previous tournament meet in the group stage.

The Netherlands comes into this match with a 1-0 victory against Portugal, secured through a set-piece goal from defender Stefanie van der Gragt. However, the USWNT currently leads Group E with a plus-three goal differential. The top two teams from each group will advance to the Round of 16, adding to the significance of this matchup.

A notable aspect of the USWNT’s lineup is the impressive performance of young midfielder Savannah DeMelo. She made her Women’s World Cup debut against Vietnam and started the match, making history as the first player in USWNT history to make her World Cup debut and start in one of her first two caps. The 2023 World Cup presents an opportunity for DeMelo and other emerging talents to make their mark on the international stage.

The USWNT’s roster is a blend of experience and youth, featuring nine players from the 2019 FIFA Women’s World Cup championship squad and 14 players who earned their first World Cup roster spot. Alongside DeMelo, players like Sophia Smith, Naomi Girma, Emily Fox, and others add youthful energy and talent to the team.

Forward Sophia Smith, in particular, has been in stunning form, scoring a brace in the opening match against Vietnam. Her impressive performance earned her the distinction of being the second-youngest player in USWNT history to score multiple goals in a World Cup match, and she currently stands as one of the tournament’s top scorers.

The matchup against the Netherlands promises to be a thrilling encounter, with the USWNT aiming to extend their unbeaten streak in the group stage and continue their dominance on the world stage. The history between these two teams adds an extra layer of excitement, making this a must-watch clash for soccer fans around the world.

The USWNT’s journey in the 2023 FIFA Women’s World Cup is just beginning, and with talented players like Savannah DeMelo and Sophia Smith leading the way, they are set to make a strong bid for the title. So, mark your calendars for July 26 and tune in to watch the USA-Netherlands showdown, a battle of two soccer powerhouses that promises to deliver thrilling action and unforgettable moments on the field.

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