The United States have locked up progression to the knockout stages of World Cup 2015, but their job is nowhere near done. Their draw with Sweden in their last match means they might need a win over Nigeria to secure the top spot in Group D.
Nigeria vs. USA, World Cup 2015: Time, TV schedule and news
The United States women have to win to avoid some of the world’s best in early knockout stages.
If the U.S. finish top, their route to a World Cup semifinal is pretty easy. They wouldn’t have to face a group winner in a quarterfinal, and might even get one of the weaker runners-up. But if they don’t finish top, they’ll have to face a tough road that will feature games against Canada, Japan and Brazil.
Nigeria have been very good so far in this World Cup, and they’d probably be heading to the knockout stages if they were in any other group, but this truly has been the group of death. They’re only on one point despite playing very good soccer so far, and they’ll exit the tournament if they don’t win this game.
Key player: Lauren Holiday
Of the United States' two central midfielders, Holiday is supposed to be the better passer, but she hasn't been able to create much. Carli Lloyd's always been more of a direct threat and goal-scorer than technical playmaker, so it's up to Holiday to unlock defenses with her passing. So far, she's just produced simple passes and turnovers.
Key matchup: Asisat Oshoala vs. Meghan Klingenberg
Nigeria have a chance to grab a goal or two on the break in this game, and if they do, it's probably going to be down their left flank. Klingenberg has looked a tad shaky at times in the Americans' first two games, while Oshoala has been the Super Falcons' best player. They need to get her out in space, running at Klingenberg.
Match date/time: Tuesday, 8 p.m. ET, 5 p.m. local
Venue: BC Place, Vancouver, Canada
TV: FOX (U.S. - English), NBC Universo (U.S. - Spanish), CTV, RDS (Canada), BBC red button (U.K.)
Online: FOX Soccer 2 Go (U.S. - English), NBC deportes en vivo extra (U.S. - Spanish), BBC player (U.K.)
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