US team doesn't sing national anthem during third 2023 World Cup match
The US Women's soccer team once again hit the headlines at the World Cup as they remained silent during the playing of The Star-Spangled Banner ahead of their match against Portugal.
The defending champions were accused of disrespect ahead of their 2023 World Cup opener against Vietnam when six of 11 US players stayed silent and did not put their hands over their hearts during the anthem.
Ahead of their second match against the Netherlands, US Women produced another uninspiring performance during the anthem and today, ahead of playing Portugal, it proved the latest divisive episode.
While three players - including striker Alex Morgan - appeared to mumble along to the anthem, many in the squad stood motionless and did not put hands on their heart as the anthem played out. Four players - Morgan, Julie Ertz, Alyssa Naeher and Lindsey Horan - put hands on their chest.
In contrast, Portugal's players all sang proudly as their anthem was played.
'It's sad when only a few players show respect during the national anthem. And many question why Americans are rooting for a U.S. loss,' one fan wrote on Twitter.
'The worlds stage is not the place to try and push your agenda, it where you display pride and togetherness. Go USA!'
Another added: 'What this team just did when the Anthem played was disheartening and disgraceful, especially in contrast to Team Portugal.'
A third said: 'It is embarrassing watching the @USWNT during the National anthem. Thank you @LindseyHoran @julieertz for demonstrating your patriotism.'
Critics have continued to keep an eye on the US women's behavior during the anthem after former team captain Megan Rapinoe knelt in protest of racist police brutality beginning in 2016.
Rapinoe, now playing in her final World Cup,
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