Explosive Showdown: Vlatko Andonovski Fires Back at Carli Lloyd's 'Insane' Criticism After Nail-Biting Tie Game

Vlatko Andonovski, Carli Lloyd Shutterstock(2)

United States women's national soccer coach, Vlatko Andonovski, addressed former player Carli Lloyd's criticism following the team's recent tied game. Speaking at a post-game press conference on Tuesday, August 1, Andonovski, aged 46, expressed that the team had a strong desire to win the game. He emphasized that they had diligently prepared for the tournament and every match, dismissing any doubts about their mental strength, determination, and competitiveness as unfounded.

He continued, "I've never witnessed this team stepping onto the field without giving their all and competing. While everyone is entitled to their opinion and can say whatever they want, I have a clear understanding of how this team truly feels. Our performance was far from impressive, and we take full responsibility for it. We acknowledge that it was not up to the mark. Despite that, we managed to qualify for the next round and we are looking ahead."

Andonovski's remarks followed closely after Lloyd, aged 41, criticized the team for their underwhelming performance against Portugal during the post-game show. (Lloyd, who retired from the sport in 2021, now works as an analyst on Fox Sports.)

"You should never underestimate or overlook anything. When you wear that jersey, your aim should be to give it your all, not only for those who wore it before you but also for those who will come after you," she expressed. "However, I am currently not witnessing that level of dedication and enthusiasm. Instead, what I see is a lackluster and uninspiring attitude, where the importance of winning, training, and striving to become the best individual player is being disregarded."

Subsequently, Lloyd conveyed her disappointment with her previous team for celebrating despite not achieving a victory in the game.

Vlatko Andonovski and Megan Rapinoe Masatoshi Okauchi/Shutterstock

"I fully support their achievements in advancing from the group stage," she expressed. "However, I do have reservations about the excessive cheering and dancing, as I personally wouldn't find it satisfying. I know a number of their players, including former '99ers champions, who would not be content with a tie. Overall, the team's performance in the first three games has been subpar."

Prior to the Portugal match, the USWNT also drew against the Netherlands in July. During the match, Andonovski attracted criticism from fans and commentators for his controversial decision to not substitute any players. After the game, Andonovski defended his choice, stating that he believed the team on the field was performing "well."

"We maintained proximity to the goal throughout the match, and I refrained from making any changes during that crucial moment. Introducing a substitute can sometimes disrupt the fluidity of the game, requiring a few minutes for them to settle and find their rhythm," he clarified at that moment. "Our intention was to avoid compromising any progress, as I believed all three of our forwards performed exceptionally well today. They posed a constant threat, generated numerous opportunities, and proved to be a formidable challenge for the opposing team."