Chicago Red Stars in attendance for Tuesday’s Lincoln Park Watch Party

U.S. Women’s National Team vs. England Preview

The World Cup is down to its final four, with the U.S. Women’s National Team set to face England on Tuesday, July 2 for a spot in the World Cup Final. 

England advanced to the semifinal following the most comprehensive win of any quarterfinalist. Phil Neville’s side dominated Norway en route to a 3-0 win. Jill White opened the scoring for the Lionesses in just the third minute before Ellen White doubled their lead just before halftime. It was déjà vu for both teams in the second half. Lucy Bronze scored a wonderful volley in the 57th identical to her goal when both teams met in 2015’s Round of 16. England could’ve had a fourth when they were awarded a penalty kick in the 83rd minute, but had to settle for just the three after Nikita Parris’ attempt was stopped. 

Chicago Red Stars Julie Ertz and Alyssa Naeher helped the U.S. reach the quarterfinals with a 2-1 defeat of France in what many considered to be the toughest test the reigning champions would have all tournament. The Americans got off to a flying start with a Megan Rapinoe goal in the fourth minute. Her free kicked was curled into the far post and the ball went untouched into the back of the net. The U.S. WNT has scored within the first 12 minutes of every game this World Cup. Rapinoe would score her second goal of the game in the 65th minute to double the lead. France got a goal back in the 81st minute but in the end, it was a mere consolation goal for the hosts. 

The last five meetings between the United States and England have been incredibly close matches. Every game has been decided by only one goal or less, with the Americans winning three of the five games. Their last matchup took place in March at the 2019 SheBelieves Cup. Rapinoe scored in that game as well, but England responded minutes later and ended up taking the lead in the 52nd minute. WIth the Americans looking for a hero, Tobin Heath answered the call with a goal in the 67th minute to earn a 2-2 draw. 

What to do in Chicago 

Fans can watch tomorrow’s semifinal matchup at the official U.S. Soccer Watchparty located at Lincoln Park. The event is free and open to the public, but it will be on a first come first serve basis. Fans can enter starting at 12 pm at 72 West Lasalle Avenue. 

Chicago Red Stars defender Sarah Gorden will emcee Tuesday’s watch party and the Chicago Red Stars front office will be in attendance. Fans can find Red Stars representatives for a chance to win free match tickets to the Chicago Red Stars matchup against the North Carolina Courage on July 21. Additional features at the watch party include live music from DJ King Marie, interactive games and giveaways at FanHQ, a beer garden, and food trucks.