The USWNT, much to the surprise and worry of their fan base, failed to top their group at the Women’s World Cup for the first time since 2011. This is not only unsettling for the fans but also poses a potentially significant issue for Fox Sports and fans back in the states.
Their latest match resulted in a goalless draw against Portugal, while the Netherlands crushed Vietnam with an impressive 7-0 victory. This turn of events put the US in second place in Group E, which means that American fans will have to stay up through the night if they wish to follow their team’s ongoing pursuit of a third consecutive World Cup triumph.
When Fox Sports coordinated with FIFA to decide the schedule for the knockout-stage matches, they were banking on the US women’s team dominating their group – a prediction reflected by the pre-tournament betting odds of -400. If things had gone as predicted, the US team would have played their matches on Saturday night at 10 p.m. ET and, if successful, the following match on Thursday at 9 p.m. ET.
These were the only remaining prime-time slots for the East Coast audience in the tournament, being held in Australia and New Zealand. Should the US team manage to fight their way to the final, here’s what their journey will look like (all timings ET):
Round of 16: Sunday, 5 a.m.
Quarterfinals: Friday, Aug. 11, 3:30 a.m.
Semifinals: Tuesday, Aug. 15, 4 a.m.
Final: Sunday, Aug. 20, 6 a.m.
The match between the U.S. and the Netherlands set a new viewership record for a Women’s World Cup group-stage match, following the US team’s initial match, which also attracted a near-record audience.
There is no doubt that prime-time knockout-round matches would have seen even larger audiences, leaving both Fox Sports and fans to ponder the missed opportunities. If predictions hold true, the US will face Sweden – a team that has beaten them in the previous two Olympic tournaments – in the next round. However, the US team did triumph over Sweden in the 2019 World Cup.
USWNT receiving criticism over lackluster performances
Pundits and fans alike have criticised the USWNT and their subpar performances so far in this WWC. USWNT legend, Carli Lloyd said if it wasn’t for the goal post coming to their rescue against Portugal, the USA would be going home. Going into the knockout stages with a come from behind draw against the Netherlands and a goal-less draw to tournament debutants Portugal is not the ideal way to start to build some momentum.
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