DHAKA: The United States is taking on the Netherlands in the 2019 Women's World Cup finals on Sunday.

The Americans are defending their title as world champions, having won their third World Cup in 2015, and facing high expectations after taking plenty of criticism -- from even their own president -- for their confidence.

"We know that everybody knows that they can compete with us and we can compete with them," midfielder Rose Lavelle told ABC News on Friday.

The Netherlands secured their spot in the final in a Wednesday match against Sweden. That match went on into extra time, with the first -- and only -- goal not scored until the 99th minute, by midfielder Jackie Groenen.

On the American side, Lavelle, along with co-captain Megan Rapinoe, are returning to play Sunday after suffering minor injuries. Rapinoe sat out the semifinal game against England on Tuesday with "just a little minor strain," while Lavelle had a hamstring injury.

Both, however, said they are ready to play in the final match.

Source: ABC News

BDST: 1626 HRS, JUL 7, 2019
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