US women face many challengers

Compiled by Globe Staff, 09/15/2000

WOMEN

WHEN: Sept. 17 (vs. China), Sept. 20 (vs. Nigeria), Sept. 24 (semifinals), Sept. 28 (medals).

US TEAM: Brandi Chastain, Lorrie Fair, Joy Fawcett, Julie Foudy, Michelle French, Mia Hamm, Kristine Lilly, Shannon McMillan, Tiffeny Milbrett, Siri Mullinix, Carla Overbeck, Cindy Parlow, Christie Pearce, Briana Scurry, Nikki Serlenga, Danielle Slaton, Kate Sobrero, Sara Whalen.

FAVORITES: 1. US; 2. Norway; 3. Brazil

WHAT TO LOOK FOR: Though the US is Olympic and World Cup champion, both tournaments were held on home soil in front of packed flag-waving houses. This time, the Americans are in Melbourne with a brutal draw. With midfielder Michelle Akers retired and keeper Briana Scurry coming off an injury, the US needs offensive oomph to repeat. If they can regain last summer's magic, the Americans will do it. If not, they could be three-and-out.

MEN

WHEN: Sept. 16 (vs. Cameroon), Sept. 19 (vs. Kuwait), Sept. 23 (quarterfinals), Sept. 26 (semifinals), Sept. 29 (medals).

US TEAM: Jeff Agoos, Chris Albright, Danny Califf, Conor Casey, Ramiro Corrales, Joey DiGiamarino, Landon Donovan, Brian Dunseth, Brad Friedel, Frankie Hejduk, Tim Howard, Chad McCarty, John O'Brien, Ben Olsen, Peter Vagenas, Sasha Victorine, Evan Whitfield, Josh Wolff.

FAVORITES: 1. Brazil; 2. Spain; 3. Italy.

WHAT TO LOOK FOR: The Brazilians finally claim the one crown they've never won as beefed-up Spain and Italy crowd Nigeria, the weakened defenders, off the award stand. The Americans have never survived the prelims, but with an all-pro roster and a forgiving draw, they have a good chance. They opened with a 2-2 tie with the Czech Republic. cf27,10.5,12