AP Photo/Jessica HillOn Monday, the United States women's team defeated Mexico 4-0 at Rentschler Field in East Hartford.Both squads met recently July 1, at the same venue. The U.S. emerged victorious by the same score. This was the final fixture of the USWNT before the team travels to Tokyo for the Olympics.Coach Vlatko andonovski would have liked to see strong performances from his team. And that was exactly what the players did.Lindsey Horan's and Carli Lloyd's goals put the U.S. up 2-0 in the 11th minute. Lloyd completed a diving header from a cross by Crystal Dunn and Horan's deftvolley got things started.The USWNT led by two goals at halftime when the referee called for the end of the game. Reyna Reyes scored an own goal in 37 minutes, and Tobin Heath scored the fourth goal in 39 minutes.Although the U.S. may have been unlucky to not have five goals, Christen Press was whistled by Mexico for being offside. Heath then collected an impressive through ball from Heath and beat Mexico's goalkeeper Itzel Gonzalez.Although the press appeared to be on side, there was video replay that allowed officials to review the decision.The USA took the brakes in the second period, not surprising considering the sizable advantage enjoyed by the team. In the first 45 minutes, the USWNT made its point.Andonovski used the second period to adjust his tactics and formation to better prepare for the Olympics. As if the United States were trying to maintain a small lead in the final stages, Andonovski used a five-woman backline towards the end of his match.Heath was one of the players who were removed at halftime. On Monday, Heath clarified her place in the Olympic starting line-up.The 33-year old suffered an ankle injury in January, and also sustained a knee injury over the course of her recovery. It is not ideal to be off work for six months before attending a major tournament.She had not been seen with the USWNT since November last year, so she was brought on as a substitute in their victory over Mexico on July 1.Heath is firing on all cylinders.From Monday, Andonovski won't have much to complain about. The USWNT's subdued second half was completely intentional. The forward line showed how clinical it can get when in top gear.The 2016 quarterfinals defeat to Sweden is a reminder of how difficult it is for the United States to win Olympic gold in women's soccer. The U.S. proved against Mexico that it is the favourite to win Tokyo.What's next?The USWNT will face Sweden on July 21st in its first match at the Olympics' group stage. This match will be America's most difficult on the group stage. Sweden is currently fifth in FIFA rankings.
