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Megan Rapinoe: The real reason USA star was dropped against England Women - Hope Solo
MEGAN RAPINOE was left out of the USA team to play England in the Women’s World Cup semi-final because she does not have the stamina to play the entire 90 minutes.
England vs USA: Megan Rapinoe’s absence explained by Solo
That is according to USA Women’s World Cup-winning former goalkeeper Hope Solo.
Rapinoe was a surprise omission from Jill Ellis’ starting XI for the semi-final in Lyon.
England vs USA LIVE: Latest score and updates
She scored twice in the quarter-final win over France on Friday.
But Solo said it was the right decision to pick Christian Press ahead of the 33-year-old.
“Megan Rapinoe historically doesn’t have the endurance to compete with somebody like Lucy Bronze for 90 minutes,” Solo said on BBC One.
“I think this is a great decision from the American coaching staff.
“To be honest I think Christian Press should have had more minutes leading into this tournament than she already has.”
BBC presenter Gabby Logan noted how, during the pre-match warmup, Rapinoe was not taking an active part.
“She doesn’t look particularly happy, does she?” Logan said.
“She’s not warming up either, so whether he will play any part tonight we shall see.”
Rapinoe, who is understood to have been suffering from a hamstring problem ahead of the game against England, has been caught up in controversy of late.
The Reign FC star is embroiled in an ongoing feud with US President Donald Trump.
The winger claimed she would not go to the White House if USA won the World Cup because of Trump.
“I’m not going to the f***ing White House,” she said.
“No, I’m not going to the White House.
"We’re not going to be invited. I doubt it.”