One of the keys in this match will be how Sky Blue defend Abby Wambach. Wambach is a top forward and will cause Sky Blue problems especially from set-pieces, and if she is given a regular supply line from wide areas. When the Freedom give Wambach a good supply of passes to attack in the box, they’re one of the most dangerous teams in the league.
Wambach’s strength, the quality of her runs, her tenacity and sheer will to win make her one of the toughest players in the league, and world, to defend;
really looking forward to the Wambach-Rampone/Dowling match up.
Sky Blue’s back four plus Branam are experienced but any defense is only  as good as the two center midfielders in front of them.  Averbuch and Rosana will need to be solid, not necessarily spectacular, and take care of the ball. If they do, the Sky Blue will be difficult to penetrate and score on. But their play this season has been erratic. While there is no disputing Rosana’s talent when going forward, her positioning when defending and her tracking back are areas she can improve.
Sky Blues can’t rely on just Branam to deal with crosses in the box. It has to be a collective effort. Put a body on Wambach and don’t let her have free headers.
The Freedom will have to find a way to control O’Reilly on the flank. O’Reilly for me is a gem. She is willing to do what’s required of her, she brings energy, and is able to focus on team goals. She makes few mistakes, enjoys competing, and is reliable.
Looking at head coaches, Jim Gabarra’s experience in this type of match is key here. He has been around and understands how to set up his teams for such matches.

So which team will win? With Sky Blue having a game in hand they can choose to play conservatively away from home and take their chances on the counter. Washington will want to get all three points, and if they commit in numbers to going forward they could be vulnerable.
It would not be too surprising if Washington won, and likewise if Sky Blue took all three points. Home advantage could be the difference but it’s a really close call.

Camille Abily – Good player who put a stamp on her team’s style and identity. Perhaps the best box-to-box midfielder in the WPS.
Aya Miyama – Continues her rapid improvement. Terrific at running at players and combining with Marta. Quickly improving defensively.
Sonia Bompastor – Multi-dimensional player who, because of her experience can play anywhere in midfield and could even play in the back if needed. Competes every night.
Kacey White – Perhaps a bit underrated but reads the game well, good movement, technically strong. Expect her to blossom in 2010.
Lori Chalupny – Incredibly quick and strong. Smart player who can create, score and defend. Gets her teammates involved. A winner.
BONUS: Yael Averbuch – one of the keys to Sky Blues post season success, she doesn’t get enough props but she can play.