US coach Andonovski says holders ‘lucky’ to still be in World Cup

USA coach Vlatko Andonovski arrives for a press conference at the Rectangular Stadium in Melbourne on August 5, 2023, on the eve of the Women’s World Cup football match between the USA and Sweden. (Photo by William WEST / AFP)

United States coach Vlatko Andonovski admitted the underfire title-holders were lucky to still be in the Women’s World Cup, ahead of a last-16 clash with Sweden on Sunday.

The showdown in Melbourne will pit the two top-ranked sides left in the tournament after world number two Germany’s shock early exit.

It will be a huge test of the resolve of the most successful team in women’s football history after copping criticism for their lacklustre performances so far.

The world number ones only stumbled out of their group in second place with just one win — against Vietnam — and nervy draws with the Netherlands and Portugal.

In contrast, third-ranked Sweden won all three games with clean sheets in the last two.

“The fact we are in, we are lucky, but we are moving on,” said Andonovski after they scraped through to the knockout rounds with a 0-0 draw against debutants Portugal.

“Now we will do everything possible so that same situation doesn’t happen again. We are doing everything we can to provide success and meet the expectations for everyone.”

While admitting they had been below par as they go in search of an unprecedented third title in a row, Andonovski said it was unfair to doubt his players’ commitment.

“For someone to question the standards, the mentality, the mindset of this team, after everything they do, I don’t think it is the right time for that,” he said.

‘And I don’t think it is the right thing as well. I’m happy with where they are at, happy with how they hold themselves accountable and keep raising