Previewing The USWNT's Brasilia International Tournament

2014 has not been the U.S. Women’s National team’s best year. A coaching change out of the blue, back to back losses for the first time since 2001, taking an all time low 7th place at the Algarve Cup, and placement in the Group of Death for next year’s World Cup.

Things could have gone better.

There have been several bright spots though including the call up of several fresh faces, securing a ticket to Canada, and well remember this Megan Klingenberg golazo?

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Needless to say the USWNT is probably looking forward to 2015 and the World Cup, but seven months before their first match in Winnipeg, the team is in South America to close out the 2014 year with the Brasilia International Tournament.

The U.S. ended the Algarve on a low note, and got off to a slow start in CONCACAF championships, so look for the American to try and give a complete performance from the first kickoff against China PR.

While the U.S. holds a combined winning record of against all three of their opponents, (China, Brazil and Argentina) these teams won’t be the same low ranked squads the Americans played in World Cup Qualifying. These teams have the capabilities to test the defense with quick counter attacks. Especially Brazil, with a speedy front three.

China has presented little trouble to the Americans in 2014 with a 5-0 goal differential in two April games, but the Guózú are not afraid to test the keeper with shots from the top of the box.

Argentina has not faced the U.S. since 1998 but the Argentinian women did hand Brazil a 2-0 defeat earlier this year and hold a 6-4-2 record.

Heading into 2015, the U.S. need to be firing on all cylinders leading up to some stiff completion early next year. Ending this year with a second championship from the Brazilian tournament could be just what the team needs to help put 2014 behind them a focus on the road leading to Canada.

Tournament Schedule: