While the U.S. women`s national team is currently missing some key players from their Olympic gold medal victory, retired soccer icon Megan Rapinoe believes this transitional period is ideal for building upon last summer`s success.
For this month`s friendly matches against Brazil, USWNT coach Emma Hayes will be working with only 10 players from the Olympic team. Notably, only Trinity Rodman, from the dynamic attacking trio known as `triple espresso` – which also includes Mallory Swanson and Sophia Wilson – will be present. This trio scored 10 goals at the Paris Games. Rapinoe suggests that the Olympics provided a strong base for Hayes, allowing her to now focus on developing the next generation of talent as they prepare for the 2027 Women`s World Cup.
In a CBS Sports Golazo Network interview, Rapinoe, alongside her fiancé Sue Bird, mentioned, `Winning the gold medal last summer was incredible.` She added, `Emma took charge quickly and managed the team effectively. We know the `triple espresso` are fantastic, but with some players out, we`re seeing amazing depth. Lily Yohannes and Ally Sentnor debuted and performed exceptionally well. I`m thrilled we are consistently scoring goals, regardless of who`s on the field.`
Rapinoe, a decorated player with two World Cups and an Olympic gold medal, stressed that expanding the player pool is crucial for winning championships.
`We are in a transitional phase, a few years before the next World Cup. However, throughout my career, I`ve learned that squad depth is the real key to winning tournaments,` she explained. `Tournaments are long and demanding. Not every player can play every minute of every match. Having impactful players coming off the bench is a massive advantage.`
Hayes` focus on experimentation will further enhance a team already filled with talented starters.
Rapinoe continued, `We have incredible starting players – the `triple espresso` will return, Naomi Girma and Rose Lavelle too. For me, it`s about the team`s overall balance. Emma is clearly making her mark, setting standards, and ensuring players understand her vision. It`s exciting to witness this young talent emerge.`
The USWNT will play Brazil at SoFi Stadium in Los Angeles this Saturday, followed by a second game in San Jose`s PayPal Park on Tuesday.
