Jill Roord made a significant impact in today's 1-1 draw by scoring the opening goal and successfully securing a crucial point for her team. However, what truly distinguished her performance was her role as a box-to-box midfielder for the Netherlands.

During the first half, the Netherlands strategically utilized their wing backs, Pelova and Brugts, to widen the defensive shape of the US team. This tactical approach allowed players like Martens, Van de Donk, and Roord to capitalize on the increased space and launch attacks into the opposition's box. As a result of this cohesive teamwork, Roord managed to find the back of the net and score the crucial goal.

During the match, Roord consistently positioned herself in strategic areas to disrupt the USA players. She made 5/5 successful dribbles in the game and made 5 passes into the final third.

During periods of ball possession for the Netherlands, Roord adjusted her positioning by dropping deeper, supporting CDM Jackie Groenen in the first phase. Roord had a 90% passing accuracy in the game, making her the most accurate passer to play 45 minutes or more (stat via FotMob)

In the previous match against Portugal, Roord had a more advanced position, often alongside Van de Donk, aiming to create numerical superiority in advanced areas, with Jackie Groenen playing as the lone pivot. However, in today's game, Roord fulfilled a different role that proved beneficial for her team.

Notably, Jill Roord scored her 22nd goal for the national team as per Opta's records, and it's worth mentioning that the Netherlands have an impressive record in matches where Roord has found the net, winning 14 and drawing 1.

Despite ending in a draw, this game served as a clear demonstration that underestimating the Netherlands would be unwise, as they posed a considerable challenge to the reigning World Champions throughout the first half. It will be intriguing to observe whether Roord maintains her role as a box-to-box midfielder in upcoming matches for the Netherlands. Her capacity to be a potent offensive threat while also contributing in the first phase by dropping deeper is a valuable asset to the team.