U.S. team needs at least a tie today

Women's World Cup

SHANGHAI, China -- The United States only needs a tie against Nigeria (7 a.m., ESPN) to reach the quarterfinals of the Women's World Cup.

That result sounded modest a few weeks ago. But it could prove difficult for the No. 1-ranked Americans, who have wobbled slightly in their first two games.

The Americans rallied to tie a swarming North Korea at 2-2, then withstood four corners in the first four minutes to overcome Sweden 2-0.

Seeking their third World Cup title, the U.S. team needs to start more quickly today on the banks of the Yangtze. And the players know it.

"We weathered the storm both in the North Korea game and the Sweden game," said captain Kristine Lilly, playing in an unprecedented fifth World Cup. "But I think it's a reminder. We have to be ready. We've got to start going at teams. It's another wake-up call for us to be ready right from the start instead of waiting to get into the game."

A tie will be enough to advance the United States, which is unbeaten in 49 games. However, a victory in the final Group B game might ensure a slightly easier opponent in the quarterfinal. The group winner will face England and the second-place team gets defending champion Germany.

Those teams became the first to reach the quarterfinals on Monday.

Germany ousted Japan 2-0 in Hangzhou. Birgit Prinz scored her 13th career goal in World Cup finals, eclipsing the record of 12 by American Michelle Ackers. England hammered Argentina 6-1 in Chengdu with two goals by Kelly Smith, advancing England to its first quarterfinal appearance in 12 years.

North Korea, which faces Sweden in it group final today, and the United States are tied in the first six categories used to break ties, but the U.S. has 1 less yellow card. Both teams are favored to win, and the top spot should go to the team that has the bigger margin of victory.