OTTAWA, Ontario – Alex Morgan and Amy Rodridguez were starting up top for the United States for the Women's World Cup quarterfinal match against China on Friday night.
It was the first start of the tournament for Rodriguez. Forward Abby Wambach was listed as a substitute for the second time in five matches.
The Americans were missing usual midfielders Megan Rapinoe and Lauren Holiday for the match because of yellow card accumulation.
Morgan Brian, at 22 the youngest player on the team, was starting in the middle with Carli Lloyd, while Tobin Heath and Kelley O'Hara were on the flanks. It also was O'Hara's first start of the World Cup.
No changes were made on the backline with Meghan Klingenberg, Becky Sauerbruun, Julie Johnston and Ali Krieger all starting. Hope Solo was in goal.
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