Vlatko Andonovski Becky Sauerbrunn New Zealand Vietnam show stage UPS performer Fox cup Vlatko Andonovski Becky Sauerbrunn New Zealand Vietnam

USWNT's World Cup lineup under Vlatko could backfire - ESPN

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AUCKLAND, New Zealand — The task for U.S. women's national team coach Vlatko Andonovski seemed simple: start the best possible lineup and begin the Women's World Cup with a strong statement of intent.

But once the squad to take on Vietnam in their tournament opener was announced, it became clear Andonovski was not playing it safe or simple.

The question, which will be answered once this World Cup is said and done: is Andonovski overthinking it, or just being shrewd?

The answer certainly didn't come Saturday at Eden Park Stadium against Vietnam (a Friday night start for fans in the U.S.), nor was it expected to.

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