I still remember the buzz surrounding the 2017 Tournament of Nations like it was yesterday. As someone who's followed women's soccer for over a decade, this tournament felt particularly special because it marked a crucial turning point for several national teams. What many casual viewers might not realize is the incredible preparation that went into this competition. I recall reading coach comments that perfectly captured the intense buildup: "We are trying to get maybe about, if we can, 18 practices together including two-a-day practices. We are hoping to get 18 practices including friendlies before we actually get into the first game proper on August 5th." That statement alone tells you how seriously teams were taking this tournament - they weren't just showing up to play, they were building something meaningful.

The opening match between the United States and Brazil on July 27th set the tone for what would become one of the most exciting tournaments in recent memory. I distinctly remember sitting in that stadium in Seattle, feeling the energy build as Megan Rapinoe stepped up for that free kick in the 30th minute. The way the ball curved past the Brazilian goalkeeper was pure artistry - one of those moments that reminds you why you fell in love with the sport. The US eventually won 4-3 in what became an instant classic, but what impressed me most was how both teams maintained such high intensity throughout, especially considering they'd only had about 18 practice sessions to prepare according to that preseason planning we discussed earlier.

Australia's performance throughout the tournament was nothing short of spectacular, and personally, I think they were the real story of 2017. Their 1-0 victory over the US on July 30th wasn't just an upset - it was a statement. Watching Sam Kerr's brilliant header find the net in the 41st minute, I remember thinking how far the Matildas had come. Their coordination suggested they'd been training together for months, though we know from team statements they'd only managed around 18 practice sessions including friendlies. The data from that match still stands out in my mind - Australia maintained 58% possession against the world's top-ranked team, completing 412 passes with 83% accuracy. Those numbers don't lie, and they signaled Australia's arrival as a genuine world power.

Japan's technical mastery was on full display throughout the tournament, though I have to admit their style wasn't always the most exciting to watch. Their 2-0 victory over Brazil showcased the disciplined, possession-based football they're known for, but what struck me was their efficiency - they converted both of their shots on target into goals. The final standings saw Australia claim the trophy with 7 points, followed by the US with 6, Japan with 4, and Brazil with 0. Looking back, I'm convinced the tournament's format - with each team playing three matches over nine days - created this incredible pressure cooker environment that brought out both the best and worst in teams.

Reflecting on the 2017 Tournament of Nations seven years later, I'm struck by how it served as a catalyst for the growth we've seen in women's soccer since. That intense preparation period teams underwent - those 18 practices including two-a-days and friendlies - created a foundation that would carry several of these teams to greater successes in subsequent World Cups and Olympics. The tournament wasn't just about the results we saw on the field; it was about building team chemistry and testing strategies under pressure. For me personally, it reinforced why I love international soccer - there's something magical about watching national pride and individual talent combine to create moments that stay with you forever. The 2017 edition delivered those moments in abundance, and set the stage for the incredible evolution of women's soccer we're witnessing today.