Megan Rapinoe, a retired soccer icon, believes the U.S. Women`s National Team is in a great position even as some Olympic gold medal-winning stars step back. She sees the current period as a perfect chance to build on last summer`s Olympic victory.
Although coach Emma Hayes is working with a team that includes only 10 players from the Olympic roster for the upcoming games against Brazil, Rapinoe points out the strong foundation built at the Olympics. This allows Hayes to focus on developing new talent as they prepare for the 2027 Women`s World Cup.
In a CBS Sports interview, Rapinoe mentioned the `triple espresso` – Trinity Rodman, Mallory Swanson, and Sophia Wilson – who were key scorers at the Olympics. Even with some of these players absent now, Rapinoe is impressed by the team`s growing depth. She highlighted the successful debuts of young players like Lily Yohannes and Ally Sentnor, emphasizing that the team continues to score goals regardless of who is on the field.
Rapinoe, a veteran of two World Cup wins and an Olympic gold, stressed that having a deep pool of players is essential for winning championships. She explained that tournaments are demanding, and not every player can play every minute. Having strong players ready to come off the bench is a significant advantage.
She acknowledged that the team is in a transition phase, looking towards the World Cup in a few years. However, Rapinoe feels that team depth is the real key to long-term success. She also noted the return of experienced players like the `triple espresso`, Naomi Girma, and Rose Lavelle, which adds to the team`s overall strength.
Rapinoe appreciates how coach Emma Hayes is shaping the team, setting high standards, and ensuring players understand her vision. She is excited to see the emergence of young talent within the squad.
The USWNT will play Brazil this Saturday at SoFi Stadium in Los Angeles and again on Tuesday at PayPal Park in San Jose.
Benedict Kingsley