Author: Nancy Armour, USA TODAY

Lindsey Horan’s fury at a borderline dirty tackle from Netherlands proved to be the difference maker in a game the USWNT could not afford to lose.

“It’s just a little unfortunate that now first place in the group is up for grabs,” Alex Morgan said after the USWNT’s draw vs. the Netherlands.

Alex Morgan, who missed a penalty kick in the USWNT’s win against Vietnam, says she’s “really hopeful for future (ones) in this tournament.”

Julie Ertz started at center back in the USWNT’s opening win over Vietnam despite not having played the position consistently since 2017.

Coach Vlatko Andonovski said Megan Rapinoe, Julie Ertz and Rose Lavelle are all available for Saturday’s World Cup opener against Vietnam.

Several teams at this year’s World Cup in Australia and New Zealand are in active disputes with their federations over funding and resources.

The U.S. women are among the teams in Auckland for their opening World Cup games. U.S. Soccer said the USWNT is “accounted for and safe.”