USA boss who resigned after nightmare World Cup gave England Women prediction
Former USA Women's coach Vlatko Andonovski backed England to win the World Cup after coming up against them last year.
When his players met The Lionesses in a friendly at Wembley Stadium in October 2022, which they lost 2-1, the 46-year-old was confident in the Lionesses ’ ability to not only make it to the World Cup final for the first time in their history, but also to win it.
"I absolutely believe [that England have a chance of winning the World Cup],” he said at the time. "They have an incredible squad. They showed once again that they are very good. If you give them a little space they have players that can make a difference.
"They have an incredible coach, she has done a good job. I wouldn't mind facing them in the final again. This game is important preparation for the World Cup. There is a reason we played it so far out.
"We wanted to have enough time to fix the things that get exposed. It was a great learning opportunity. We came here to experience adversity, we got that. We came here to experience a hostile environment, we got that. It checked all the boxes, not we need to get back to the drawing board."
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Andonovski’s comments 10 months ago indicated his belief that the USWNT would make it to the World Cup final and compete for their third straight title against England. But the players were far from their best and were unable to create the magic from their last two title-winning campaigns.
Not only did they fail to reach the final, but the USWNT suffered their worst World Cup result in history as they bowed out at the round of 16 stage. After some below-par performances in the group stages which culminated in a 5-4 defeat to Sweden on penalties, Andonovski chose to resign from his role as coach.
"While we are all disappointed by the outcome at this year's World Cup, I am immensely proud of the progress this team has made,” Andonovski said. “The support they've shown for each other, and the inspiration they've provided for players around the world.”
Former US coach Vlatko Andonovski resigned after the USWNT's early exit from the 2023 Women's World Cup (Getty Images)The team’s sporting director Matt Crocker added: “Vlatko worked tirelessly for this team and has been a strong and positive leader for our women's program. We're grateful for everything he has contributed to US Soccer and know he has a bright future in the sport."
While England have not been at their best throughout the tournament, they have managed to deliver when it matters . After cagey 1-0 victories over Haiti and Denmark, the Lionesses defeated China 6-1 in their final group game. But in the round of 16, they survived 120 minutes against Nigeria before holding their nerve in a penalty shootout to progress.
Another tight victory in the quarterfinals against Colombia followed, but a semi-final win over Australia in front of their home fans brought the best out of Sarina Wiegman's women. Goals from Ella Toone, Lauren Hemp and Alessia Russo wrapped up a 3-1 win and England will now battle Spain for the right to be crowned champions of the world on Sunday.
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