The U.S. women’s national team will continue its challenging 1998 schedule by competing in the fifth Algarve Cup tournament in Portugal from March 15-21. Eight of the world’s top teams will be split into two four-team groups, with the two group winners vying for the championship. The U.S. has been drawn into Group A with Finland, Norway and China, and will open play in Olhao against the Finns on March 15. The Americans then face China on March 17 in Loule and conclude first-round play against Norway on March 19 in Lagos. Group B will include Sweden, Denmark, Portugal and The Netherlands. The U.S. has never won the Algarve tourney, finishing fourth in 1993 and 1995 and second in 1994. The team did not compete in the 1995 and 1996 tournaments due to preparation for the Olympics.