What does 31 goals in three games get you in CONCACAF qualifying for the Summer Olympics? Nothing. It doesn’t matter how many times the U.S. women’s team has scored in the opening round of the regional qualifying tournament in Vancouver, not in a record 14-0 drubbing of the Dominican Republic, a 13-0 demolition of Guatemala or a 4-0 result against Mexico.
The only way for the U.S. team to get to London is to win Friday’s regional semifinal against Costa Rica. Lose and it’s over, making the preceding goal fests less important than a meaningless regional final featuring two teams that have already claimed berths in the 12-team Olympic tournament.
The qualifying process has come at a cost. U.S. defender and Dumfries, Va., native Ali Krieger suffered a serious knee injury against the Dominicans. Tuesday’s win over Mexico was crucial because it ensured avoiding Canada in the semifinal. But the most important work remains, even if it’s another lopsided result. The Costa Ricans have lost seven previous meetings against the United States by a combined score of 34-0.
– Craig Stouffer
