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 The U.S. came through unbeaten from the 'Group of Death', which
included three teams in the top-10, and have striker Abby Wambach in
top form, while Solo is anchoring an air-tight defense.
The team have also rediscovered their swagger as they are cheered
along by the World Cup's most vocal supporters and all the signs are
indicating the Americans are progressing nicely as they face
Colombia in Edmonton in the knockout phase.
Solo's refusal to confront new allegations over a domestic abuse
case, however, are causing unwanted headlines off the field.
U.S. Soccer has kept Solo away from the media while far lower
profile team mates have been pushed into the spotlight even though
the goalkeeper has provided some brilliant work, particularly in
their opener against Australia.
As the Americans progress deeper into the tournament the scrutiny is
sure to increase along with questions as to why she has been allowed
to play at all despite allegations in a report by ESPN that she was
the aggressor in a domestic abuse incident involving her half sister
and nephew.
When charges were dismissed earlier this year, U.S. Soccer thought
the controversy was put to rest but it now is threatening to become
an even bigger distraction, with a politician questioning the
decision to allow it to fester.
U.S. Senator Richard Blumenthal last week called on U.S. Soccer
president Sunil Gulati to "conduct an investigation into Solo's case
and reconsider her participation in the World Cup".
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"Domestic violence is unacceptable, particularly for an athlete
representing the United States of America on the global stage,"
Blumenthal said in an open letter.
So far, Solo and her team mates have not shown any hint of being
distracted from the task at hand.
The U.S. have not conceded a goal in 243 minutes and Wambach, the
all-time leading scorer in women's soccer, looking dangerous as
ever.
"We're starting to find our way," said U.S. midfielder Carli Lloyd.
"We just played three tough teams, so now, going into the knockout
phase, we should feel more confident.
"We should be better on the ball, hopefully create more chances,
hopefully score more goals, and just kind of build each and every
game."
(Editing by Greg Stutchbury)
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