The Women’s International Champions Cup is almost underway. The best teams from around the globe are ready to battle in these final two matches in order to see who will be crowned champions.
What are the factors that will play a part of the competition and who will be competing this year? Let’s take a look at the teams.
North Carolina Courage
As the second WICC takes place, one team that will represent the NWSL is the North Carolina Courage.
One factor that cannot be overlooked is that this could serve as a ‘home field’ advantage for them. The tournament will unfold at WakeMed Soccer Park in Cary, NC.
Embed from Getty ImagesNorth Carolina Courage have shown a brilliant performance so far in the NWSL, holding onto the second seat with a record of (8-4-3).
Paul Ryan has commanded his troops beautifully as they prepare for this cup. This could well be the sole reason why he is one of the names to replace USWNT manager Jill Ellis and also a candidate on the FIFA 2019 ‘Best Coach’ list.
A name that has to be mentioned when talking about Courage is Kristen Hamilton. She has been named NWSL Player of the Month for July, with five goals and two assists.
All eyes will be looking for her to connect with Jessica McDonald up top. Not forgetting other star players such as Sam Mewis, Crystal Dunn and Abby Dahlkemper.
Manchester City
A team that has been causing a stir from the Barclays FA WSL is Manchester City.
There has been a change in their lineup that has their upcoming season looking promising. Ellen White recently joined the squad, adding another England international to the roster and continuing the camaraderie.
The Bronze Boot winner is now in the running for the 2019 ‘Best Women’s Player’ Award for her dangerous counter-plays in the final third.
Embed from Getty ImagesAs FA Cup winners Man City travel across the pond, they will be looking to get their hands on another title, especially from current WICC holders, NC Courage.
Atlético de Madrid
As we move across the globe, we have two more leagues that will be represented in the WICC.
Atletico Madrid will be making their journey to try their hand in this tournament.
The La Liga team has a new high-profile transfer that has left the world talking. The announcement of Lioness Toni Duggan has got fans across the globe buzzing. It will be interesting to see what she can bring to her new club.
Embed from Getty ImagesThe 2018 La Liga champions will be looking to capture the WICC title in order to gain momentum for their upcoming season.
Olympique Lyonnais
Lastly, we have Olympique Lyonnais in the run – coined as one of the best teams in Europe and arguably the best in the world.
Lyon are stacked with powerhouse players who are ready to take down their opponents. Not only is Reynald Pedros up for a FIFA award but a handful of his players are as well.
The back-to-back Champions League winners will be even sharper in attack since the arrival of prolific forward Nikita Parris.
Embed from Getty ImagesAll eyes will be watching out for the Lucy Bronze and Nikita Parris right-flank link-up. These two are among the long list of players who will be causing the opposition problems in this cup as well as their respective leagues.
Which of these teams do you think will earn themselves some more silverware? Who will come out on top against other champions from across the world?
The Women’s International Champions Cup kicks off on August 15.
