THREE KEYS TO TOMORROW’S WOMEN’S WORLD CUP SEMI

Becky Sauerbrunn centerstage at the center of their defense.
After not having played a single second so far in the tournament, the 26-year-old will be asked to step in today for Rachel Buehler, suspended following her red card in the quarterfinal. But at least she’ll be playing next to (CB Christine Rampone) and in front of (GK Hope Solo) teammates from the WPS’ magicJack.

Who’ll dictate style?
They’ve each put a tourney-high 32 shots on frame, but the U.S. is more athletic and direct, using the longball. France has been more technical and dominated midfield possession, Megan Rapinoe telling FIFA.com “France are an excellent team. They put on a great show against England…kept the ball well and played an attractive style. I think it’s going to be a pretty good game.’’

Forward Marie-Laure Delie.
When a striker is in-form, you ride them as far as you can, and with 23 goals in just 24 appearances, she’s on a torrid streak. France is technical and talented, with attacking midfielder Louisa Necib and striker Gaëtane Thiney (a brace in the 4-0 rout of Canada), but with a three hat tricks in a span of five matches earlier this year, all eyes will be on Delie.