The US national team answered some of their critics with victory at the Algarve Cup in Portugal last week.

Some suggested that the side were not up to standard after an unconvincing set of qualifying matches for Germany 2011, but coach Pia Sundhage was pleased with the performances that landed them their eighth Algarve Cup.

''It's been a superb preparation for us for the World Cup,'' Sundhage told FIFA. ''We can now safely say we're ready, as we feel we've rediscovered our best level.''

Sixteen teams will compete in the Women's World Cup which will take in nine stadiums from June 26 to July 17.

The United States will be joined by hosts Germany, as well as Canada, New Zealand, Australia, Nigeria, Equatorial Guinea, France, Sweden, England, Norway, Mexico, Japan, Korea, Columbia and Brazil.