Possible USWNT Lineups for the 2015 Algarve Cup

Right Back

Oct 26, 2014; Philadelphia, PA, USA; United States defender Ali Krieger (11) battles Costa Rica forward Daphnne Herrera (17) during the CONCACAF Women’s Championship at PPL Park. Team USA won 6-0. Mandatory Credit: Derik Hamilton-USA TODAY Sports

Krieger (Dunn)

Krieger can and should play 90 minutes a game, and is one of maybe two or three players on this roster who is essentially peerless at their position. I could see the thirty-year-old go a full 90 against Norway, play the first half against Switzerland, maybe pick up the last half against Iceland, and finish out the placement match on the 11th, with Dunn taking the reigns in her absence. I would love to see the younger back develop at playing on both sides of the defense, and she could pick up some good minutes if the starting RB ever needs a break.

Center Backs

Jun 14, 2014; Tampa, FL, USA; United States defender Becky Sauerbrunn (4) and France forward Marie Laure Delie (18) head the ball during the first half of a women’s soccer friendly at Raymond James Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kim Klement-USA TODAY Sports

Rampone, Sauerbrunn (Engen, Johnston if she can’t get minutes anywhere else)

Only a fool would suggest that Rampone should be left off any tournament roster for the US, and I’m no fool. The most encouraging spot for the United States over the past year or so has been the unflappable Becky Sauerbrunn (2-time NWSL Defender of the Year). It’s easy to imagine a starting World Cup roster that heavily features these two holding down the back line.

Engen looked pretty solid in the center during her recent starts at CONCACAF qualifiers and in the European friendlies earlier this month. She’s proven to be a worthy backup central defender, and has paired well as a starter alongside both Rampone and Sauerbrunn.

Next: Left Backs & Central/Defensive Midfielders