Megan Rapinoe was surprisingly left out of USA’s starting lineup for their World Cup semifinal match against England on Tuesday, but there was apparently a reasonable explanation.
According to multiple reports, Rapinoe did not get the start because of a hamstring injury. She was not seen warming up with the team before the game and had tape on her right leg during the week.
This is not tactical. Rapinoe not even warming up on sideline. She had tape on right leg yesterday. https://t.co/LBNJeHpeQ0
— Julie Foudy (@JulieFoudy) July 2, 2019
Rapinoe had scored the last four goals for the US heading into Tuesday’s match, so people were shocked that she did not get the start. It may have worked out, however, as Christen Press scored on a beautiful header to give the US a 1-0 lead early on. Press, who is known for her speed, started in place of Rapinoe.
Should the US advance, Rapinoe’s health will be something to monitor heading into the final match.
