#the uswnt without alyssa

[gamergirl929]

The fact that THIS very well may be Alyssa Naeher's Final USWNT game as #1 GK hurtssssssssssss.

[womanwithahotdogstand]

I just want to say that it has been an honor and a privilege to have had this generation be the generation of USWNT players that “raised” me. ❤️

[fakevariety]

i know this is not a hot take within the american woso community but god do i hate the english fans

[uswnt-has-my-heart]

I am absolutely livid about our loss to Sweden, mainly because a bunch of assholes are using this as an opportunity to harass the team, especially our beloved P.

i’ve seen a bunch of people saying that they lost because they were too focused on politics, and my only thought is, “where have you been??”

[wosostories]

Heath Sisters PT 10 (USWNT x Teen!Reader)

Masterlist Heath Sisters Master List

USWNT X Teen!Reader

Note: Once again anything that may sound believable is completely made up.

When dinner finally rolls around Tobin carries Y/N to the meeting room on her back. They aren't the first to arrive, but they still beat out most of the team. 

Tobin gets them both plates and Y/N kept her head down just taking more notes. She wants to get them done so she can share them with Becky. 

Becky and Abby silently join their table along with Ali and Christen taking up the last of the seats. 

Alyssa Neaher: 2nd Keeper in line up. Moves well on the line and reads the game very well. Quick reaction times. Communicates well with the back line in order to keep the game in hand. Need to see more. (Would like to see her start a game this camp).

Cristen Press: Forward, Always looking for the cross, prefers the ball at her feet. Has a cutback move that leaves defenders on their knees even if they know it's coming. Could work on making it quicker to give her more time and space on the strike. Need to see more. 

Becky Sauerbrunn: Center back, captian, leader on the pitch and has a great read on what needs to happen. Helps direct play. Is not inclined to make a goal scoring oppertunity for herself. Always looking for the pass. At least one time this was the wrong move during practice. Need to see more. 

'That makes sense for a center back.' Y/N thinks to herself. 'But…'

"Becky?" Y/N asks quietly.

"Yeah what's up?"

"Do you not like scoring?"

Becky tilts her head in thought. "It's not that I don't like it, I just don't see the need to. That's the forwards and midfields job not mine."

"Would you take the shot if it meant winning the game?"

"Of course I would."

"Then you need to practice." 

The whole table freezes, but it only takes second before Abby bursts out laughing. 

"Wh-what's so funny?"

"Wonder Kid she's never going to need to make a shot to win a game. Do you know what the odds of that are?"

"A lot higher than you think."

Abby freezes, "Wait are you saying you know the odds?"

"Not exactly cause I haven't read the latest stat report from last year yet, but you don't know it's the game winning shot until the final whistle blows. And on top of that every goal in every game made by both teams is important not just the final one."

"So you're saying that I need to score more."

Y/N shakes her head, "Not necessarily, you just need to know when it is better to take the shot then it is to make the pass. I know you know how, you do it occasinally for your club teams and you did it in college."

"So take shots but not score? I think you're losing me kid."

Y/N turns to the last page in her notebook and sketches out half the field. Then she draws 11 x's that represent the USWNT and 10 o's that represent the defenders. 

"This was the set up today during one of your scrimages. Becky had the ball and did a long pass up to Kelley on the sideline. Kelley was then aproched by a defensive player. When she tried to go around another was waiting to pick up the pass Kelley made to herself. She was too close to the sideline and there looked like their was enough space so she took the inside path. This led to a turnover, and while you guys eventully got the ball back it was time wasted.

"If Becky had cut in more and at least acted like she was going to take a shot, she likely would have drawn that second defensive player to her in central field. That way when the pass was made to Kelley she would have been able to get further up the field without turning over the ball. She also could have just been further up the field altogether when she recived the ball. 

"Everyone knows you don't take many shots yourself and that you always look for the cross or pass, so even if it is subconscience they leave you with more space and instead stay a little closer to the girl likely to get the pass. In this case Kelley."

"So you're saying I need to act like a decoy."

Y/N bounces her head side to side, "I guess in a way that's what I'm saying. But you still have to take the shot sometimes otherwise we run in to the problem all over again just a little further down the field. But you still have to be smart about it. Don't just go sending shots towards net that have no hope of going in."

"Alright then no one say anything about this and we can try it at practise tomorrow." 

"You'll probably mess it up the first time, but you'll get it. There will be more defenders on you when you make the pass so just ready for that and don't worry to much if you lose the ball the first time or two you try it."

"Good to know. Thanks Kid."

------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

The next morning they are back on the pitch and just as Y/N said the first time they try Becky loses the ball. Everyone thinks that it's a fluke and Becky lost track of her positioning on the field. But then it happens again and this time she is succsessful in getting the ball to Tobin's feet. Tobin then cuts in a little more just as her sister sugested yesterday and sends the cross into Abby who manages to put it in the back of the net. 

It's not quite as clean as I was when Y/N demonstrated it the day before, but it worked and that's all that matters. 

Tobin looks up with a smile on her face and the three of them share a knowing look with one another before running over to Y/N who is watching from the sidline. 

Tobin picks her up and spins her around. 

"What do you know the Wonder Kid was right." Becky says with a grin. 

"I mean she never gave us a reason to doubt her did she?" Abby adds. 

"You are a genius kid, an absolute fucking genius." 

[meazalykov]

independent

trinity rodman x rodman!reader

part two - part one here

summary: you've gained, and you've lost

warnings: angst, and forgiveness

months passed by in silence between you and trinity. 

national breaks came and went on the uswnt, but the tension between you two lingered like a shadow, a constant reminder of the distance—both physical and emotional—that had grown between you. 

the once unbreakable bond felt broken, each encounter on the pitch with the uswnt tingled with an awkwardness that neither of you had the courage to confront.

you avoided eye contact with the older twin during training, focusing on the drills and the game plans, while trinity did the same with you. it was easier that way, less painful. but the avoidance left a hollow feeling in your chest, a nagging regret that you couldn’t shake no matter how hard you tried to bury it. 

each time you caught a glimpse of trinity across the field,or when you had to make a pass to her up the field– you felt the ache of what used to be—a closeness that now felt like a distant memory. 

the silences between you were noticed by the team, and the unspoken words weighed heavily on your heart. however, the team decided to not get themselves mixed up in family business. 

now, the olympic games were supposed to be the pinnacle of your career, and in many ways, they were. 

you played your heart out, having the most assists in history. each goal, except for korbin’s goal against australia, had you as the assist-ant. contributing to the team’s journey to the final with everything you had. 

even as you stood on the pitch, in the starting lineup with your sister against brazil– knowing you were just a game away from olympic gold, the thought of trinity weighed heavily on your mind. 

this was what you’d worked so hard for, yet the victory felt incomplete without sharing it with her. 

would she want to share it with me? you’d thought. 

the pressure was immense, and while your teammates cheered and encouraged you to be the playmaker, the absence of trinity’s support gnawed at you.

when the final whistle blew, signaling your victory and the uswnt’s fifth gold medal, you were swarmed by your teammates. 

cheers, tears, and hugs from mallory, naomi, and sam surrounded you, but there was still an emptiness inside. 

you glanced around, searching for trinity in the sea of jubilant faces, and when your eyes finally met, time seemed to freeze. 

the celebrations around you blurred into the background, and all you could see was the distance in trinity’s eyes, a distance that had grown over the months of silence.

trinity was standing a few feet away, holding onto alyssa with a bright smile on her face. however, her eyes showed a hint of sadness. 

she looked back at alyssa, and you looked back at sam coffey who screamed in joy. 

the next time you look at her is after the gold medal ceremony. you took your pictures, individually and with some of your teammates. 

now, many photographers begged to get you and trinity in a picture. unaware of the broken bond between the both of you. 

she looks over at you with her gold medal, her expression unreadable. you both hesitated, as if an invisible wall still stood between you. 

but with the world watching, there was no more running away. the weight of the moment pressed down on you, and you knew that this was it—the moment where everything would either begin to heal or break completely.

slowly, you approached each other, the roar of the crowd fading into the background. you stood there, gold medals around your necks, the weight of everything unsaid hanging in the air. your heart pounded in your chest, and you swallowed hard, trying to find the right words to break the silence that had held you captive for so long.

she wrapped her arm around your waist and you did the same to her, a bright smile on your face as if everything was okay. 

once the cameras went away, you broke. 

“i’m sorry, trin,” you blurted out, the words rushing out of you before you could stop them. 

“i’ve missed you so much, and i hate that we haven’t talked. i don’t like you being mad at me.”

trinity’s eyes softened, and for a moment, you saw the same sister you’d grown up with, the one who had always been by your side. 

“i missed you too, y/n,” she admitted, her voice barely audible over the loud noises around you. 

“i was so angry, but more than that, i was hurt. i didn’t know how to deal with you being gone.”

“i know,” you whispered, taking a shaky breath.

“it’s been so hard being away from you, and i hate that it happened like this. but i love playing at barcelona, trin. it’s everything i dreamed of. jana and esmee have became some of my bestest friends on the team– i have a girlfriend too finally! salma is her name, i was hoping you’d get to meet her today but spain didn’t make it unfortunately.”

to your surprise, trinity smiled, a genuine smile that reached her eyes. 

“i’m really happy for you, y/n. i’ve been following your games, even if i didn’t say anything. i saw you win the champions league...  and what the fuckkk that goal from you in the beginning of the second half was incredible. i should’ve congratulated you earlier, i’m so sorry.”

you blinked back tears, a mix of relief and guilt washing over you. “thank you, trin. i’ve wanted to talk to you for so long, to tell you everything that’s happened, but i didn’t know how. talking through imessage or facetime wouldn’t do us any justice.”

trinity nodded, her smile fading slightly as she looked at you with a seriousness that made your heart clench. 

“i guess we both needed time to figure things out. but i don’t want to lose you, y/n. you’re the closest person in my life, and i’m proud of everything you’ve achieved. olympic gold, champions league... you’re the next big thing, you know that?”

you laughed through the tears, shaking your head. “says you! you’re the reason why we made it here– but i don’t feel like the girl who’s won these competitions. i just feel like your little sister who misses her twin.”

trinity pulled you into a tight hug, holding you close as if she’d never let go. 

“you’re always going to be my sister, no matter what you achieve or even if you’re across the pond. i’m proud of you, y/n. and i’m sorry for how things went down between us. i should’ve been happy that you’re playing at your dream club.”

“i’m sorry too,” you whispered into her shoulder, feeling the weight of the past few months finally lifting. “but we’re here now, and we have gold!”

as you stood there, wrapped in your sister’s embrace, the world seemed to right itself again. the distance between you was closed.

after a few moments, trinity pulled back slightly, looking at you with a newfound determination. “we’re going to be okay, you know that, right? this distance... it won’t break us. it can’t this time.”

you nodded, feeling a sense of reassurance that had been missing for so long. 

“yeah, we will. and maybe... maybe we needed this. to grow, to understand each other better while having our own lives. but i don’t want to go through this again, trin. i need you in my life, no matter where we are.”

“same,” trinity agreed, her voice firm.

“no more avoiding each other.”

you squeezed her hand, feeling the warmth of her grip, the familiar connection that had always been there, now stronger than ever. “deal.”

“i heard about the new boyfriend, the one with your name. i have to meet him sometime– you know, just to approve of him.” you comment. 

“the same way i’ll have to meet salma someday.” 

hope you enjoyed <3

my master list is here if you want to read more fics!

[crochetnerdsworld]

Besties (Alyssa Naeher x Kellex Child Reader)

Y/N has adored her Aunt Alyssa since she was a newborn and always follows her around at camp. Chaotic toddler adorableness ensues.

From the moment Y/N Y/M/N O'Hara-Morgan met her Aunt Alyssa, the goalkeeper was her favorite aunt. Alyssa was immediately smitten with the tiny baby in her arms, swaddled in a pink blanket with soccer balls all over it. 

Y/N soon became a fixture at matches and USWNT camps. While Y/N showed love to all her aunties, adoring being held and played with, she would always go to Alyssa when given the choice. Even after many bribing attempts by other players, Alyssa remained her favorite aunt. 

Y/N, who just turned two, arrives for camp in Alex's arms, dressed in a white shirt with little overalls, and hair pulled back into pigtails. Kelley is behind them, lugging the bags. Y/N squeals as they enter the conference room where everyone is gathering. The toddler begins squirming, so Alex sets her down and chuckles as Y/N takes off, toddling her way toward Alyssa who is talking with Becky and Emily Sonnett, blanket clutched in hand.

"Hey Uncle, your bestie is here," Emily teases, pointing out the toddler. 

"Hey there, little one. Did you have a good flight?" Alyssa asks as she scoops up the toddler, smiling at Alex and Kelley as they join the small group.

"Someone decided that plane rides mean it's time to screech, so..." Alex sighs. "She was a total troublemaker. I blame Kelley for that side of her, though,"

"Rude! I thought you loved me, Alex!," Kelley replies, "Honestly, I'm just glad they didn't kick us off, though".

Soon, it is time for dinner. Y/N eats her mac and cheese happily, strapped into a high chair seat at a table with her moms, her Aunt Becky, and of course, her Aunt Alyssa. The night ends with Y/N waving bye-bye to everyone as her moms carry her up to their hotel room for bedtime.

******

"Y/N Y/M/N O'Hara Morgan! You get back here!" Alex calls after her toddler.

In the locker room post-warm-ups, she was attempting to put a Naeher shirt on Y/N for the upcoming friendly game against England, but the little girl heard a familiar voice in the hall and took off in just a diaper and pair of shorts. She giggles as she crashes into Alyssa's legs.

"Hi there, you little rascal. You can't be my mascot without a shirt on, can you? We'll match!," Alyssa asks, tickling the child's tummy. "Come on. Let's go see your mom and get your shirt on." 

Alex rolls her eyes playfully as she takes the toddler. Between her and Alyssa, they manage to get Y/N dressed in her shirt and velcro rainbow light up sneakers strapped onto her feet. They pass her off to the youngins, who delight in playing with her until it's time to walk onto the field. Kelley quickly puts a pair of blue sparkly noise-canceling headphones on Y/N, kissing her head and handing her to Alyssa.

"You excited, Y/N/N?" Alyssa asks, bouncing the small child as they walk onto the field.

Y/N grins throughout both national anthems, staring around with wide-eyed amazement. Alyssa sets her down when it's time for the mascots to get off the field, and she toddles towards Kelley, who won't be playing today. The game starts, and the next time Alyssa glances over in Y/N's direction, she is fast asleep in Kelley's arms, dressed in her little Naeher jersey. 

[didalexiabreakupwitholgaisback]

Would you say there are women goalkeepers who can really "compete" with Cata Coll right now as best goalkeeper in the world? I've been reading about it, and most lists I've found had some variation of rankings with Mary Earps, Cata, Alyssa Naeher, and Cristiane Endler. And I'm not a die-hard Cata fan, but to me she's been *consistently* better than any other for the last years (nothing to do with what you said about Gemma and Ellie, though, I just chose a bad timing for my ask).

haha, well, i definitely would NOT put mary earps in that category, but the PR she is still running on is certainly world class. 😅

so you left out ann-katrin berger of germany/gotham fc. i thought she had a fantastic run at the olympics and has fit in so seamlessly with gotham too that made a deep playoffs run.

alyssa naeher is a legend, but she retired with the uswnt and i don't know how many more years she has it in to stay with the chicago stars. certainly at her prime, she was world class, and also had a great olympics last year. but without international competition keeping her sharp, i don't know if i would keep her in the conversation.

i'm going to also add japan international and man city goalkeeper ayaka yamashita to the list of people who could compete with cata. i was impressed by what i saw from her, especially on the international stage.

for honourable mentions, i do think tiane endler is getting past her prime, so i wouldn't keep her on the list. but i would add hannah hampton to the list and i am curious about phallon tullis-joyce who is at man united.

[the-physicality]

how to pick an nwsl team:

angel city fc (Los Angeles): if you like Christen Press. Very famous ownership group (politically concerning). The team is struggling but has bright young talent. Beckintweed is in her first season as head coach after bringing the team to the playoffs last year as interim.

notable players: christen press, Alyssa Thompson, Gisele Thompson, Messiah bright, Claire Emslie, Sarah Gorden

noteable injuries: Press- extended acl recovery, Jun Endo preseason acl

bay fc (San Jose/Bay Area): if you are an optimist/want to be an early adopter. a lot of exciting internationals, but struggle to win games. First year expansion team so also trying to define themselves. notable players: Rachel Kundananji, Princess, Asistat Oshoala, Deyna Castellanos, Tess Boade, Caprice Dydasco

notable injuries: Alex Loera - acl, Melissa Lowder gk #1 preseason acl

Chicago red stars: if you want to see a redemption story. coming back from a bad season, USA phenom mal Swanson is back to lead attacking talent. Also has USA gk #1 Alyssa naeher. Lorne Donaldson (who coached Jamaica wnt in the 2023 wwc as well as Sophia smith and mal Swanson at a youth level) is in his first year as head coach

notable players: Alyssa Naeher, Mal Swanson, Sam Staab

Houston dash fc: if you like rooting for an underdog and won't get discouraged. a team that has struggled historically but is still fun to watch. A lot of international talent, did very well in the draft. The team has a new head coach Fran Alonso who just came over from the Scottish women’s league. You can watch the team work to implement their new style in real time. Jane Campbell #3 gk for the uswnt as of late won goalkeeper of the year last year. Lost a lot of players to free agency and is rebuilding with rookies, trades, and transfers. somehow both the straightest team and the gayest team at the same time.

notable injuries/abscences: Kiki Van Zanten ankle/ lower leg sei, 3 players on maternity leave

notable players: Jane Campbell, Diana Ordonez, Sophie Schmidt, Paige Nielsen, Tarciane (incoming), Michelle Alozie

Kansas City current: if you like watching bangers. one of the top teams to beat this season. With Malawi sensation Themwa Chawinga this team is difficult to stop and has a lot of attacking prowess. Has some defensive liabilities. Coached by former uswnt head coach vlatko andonoski. Has signed a good number of u18 players

notable players: debinha, lo’eau labonta, themwa chawinga, Vanessa dibernardo, bia zaneratto

New Jersey/New York Gotham fc: if you like the uswnt. recently picked up 4 uswnt players in free agency. Also just got Ann Katrin Berger gk from Chelsea on a transfer. She is very good. Head coach Juan Carlos Amaros won coach of the year last year and the team won the championship. They have struggled with injuries this year and scoring more than one goal in a game.

notable injuries: Midge Purce acl , Abby Smith sei from 2023

notable players: Lynn Williams, Ann Katrin Berger, Crystal Dunn, Rose Lavelle, Tierna Davidson, Esther Gonzalez, Jenna Nighswonger, Emily Sonnett, Midge Purce, Yazmeen Ryan

North Carolina Courage: if you are ok waiting . traditionally a very strong team, has struggled a bit this season without Kerolin who tore her acl on the last regular season game in 2023.

notable injuries: Kerolin acl (Nov 2023)

notable players: Casey Murphy, Brianna Pinto, Tyler Lussi, Manaka, Narumi, Ashley Sanchez, Kerolin

Orlando pride: if you like the brazil women's national team. aka brazil fc. Has gone from a team that struggled to one of the top teams this year, in part due to the players brought in over the offseason, many of whom play for Brazil. Recently brought in Barbra Banda a Zambian striker, who has been very productive.

notable players: Marta, Barbra Banda, rafaelle, ally watt

Portland thorns: if you like soccer dynasties. traditionally one of the most successful teams in the nwsl with a lot of local support, the h th orbs struggled in the first few games with their worst start to the season ever. Following the firing of their head coach, the team has won 6 in a row in interim hc rob gale. Has a lot of strong attacking talent but is vulnerable on defense. The home field is turf.

notable players: Sophia smith, Olivia Moultrie, Christine Sinclair, Janine Beckie, Becky Sauerbrunn

Racing Louisville: if you want to watch a team turn around. a team that has struggled historically has put together a solid team in the offseason under new head coach bev yanez. Got some very good rookies in the draft and is off to a decent start.

notable players: Savannah Demelo, Reilyn Turner, Emma Sears, Uchenna Kanu, Ary Borges

San Diego wave fc: if you like to watch a team underproduce. very successful for a team established in 2022. Has a very strong system but has struggled with injuries as of late. The home field is shared with San Diego state football and is not always in the best condition.

notable injuries: Jaedyn Shaw, Alex Morgan (lower legs out tbd)

notable players: Alex Morgan, Jaedyn Shaw, Kailen Sheridan, Naomi Girma, Abby Dahlkemper, Maria Sanchez

Seattle reign: if you want to watch a team figure out their identity without US national team players. historically successful team that lost a lot of impact players in the offseason to retirement or free agency. Previously owned by the ol group, had to be sold because its owner Michelle Kang also owns the Washington Spirit. Dropping the OL, the brand got a massive upgrade. Is struggling this season. The home field is turf.

notable injuries: Claudia Dickey #1 gk

notable players: Jess Fishlock, Lauren Barnes, Quinn, Bethany Balcer, Alanna Cook, Ji So-Yun, Jordyn Heuitema, Veronica Latsko

Utah royals fc: if you live in utah. a new expansion team that is struggling quite a bit. First time head coach Amy Rodriguez selected ally sentnor as the first draft pick. Has a racist kit and stadium sponsor. Does not have a full roster.

notable injuries: Imani Dorsey Achilles

notable players: Mandy haught, Ifeoma Onumanu, Ally Sentnor

Washington spirit: if you want to watch rookies make magic. owned by Michelle kang, not afraid to make big moves and spend $$$ for a strong team. Has found success recently. Operating under interim hc Adrian Gonzalez until Barcelona head coach Jonathan Giraldez arrives after the end of their season. Croix Bethune is doing very well her rookie season.

notable players: Trinity Rodman, Croix Bethune, Casey Kruger, Andi Sullivan, Ashley Hatch, Hal Hershfelt

[5ivebyfive]

are we winning the gold medal on saturday or what? score predictions? thoughts the uswnt play so far?

I DO NOT KNOW. I’m leaning towards yes, but barely. Either way it’s gonna be close and I’m betting on (not actually) extra time and maybe PKs. Just judging by how they’ve all gone so far.

I predict (throwing a wish into a well) a Lynn goal.

I’m thinking nwsl after dark shenanigans.

I think over all they’ve been pretty good. Some have felt like lucky plays. I think we’re relying too much on Mal, Soph and Trin. Obviously they’re our three and we should, but defense has really been killing it.

Midfield has been…interesting. 100% Horan doesn’t need to be out there. Not even saying that because I dislike her. I think she’s truly been a hindrance. This has not been her Olympics. She looks like a fish outta water. Like when I’m actually glad KA is replacing her…you know it’s bad.

Girma and Alyssa have been killing it. Rose has been working hard.

Lynn has been unfortunate in missing some chances, but not all on her. I also feel, especially in the last match, people could be passing to her. She’ll be there open and waiting and people are trying to do it without her. I won’t name names, but some people are playing slightly with their egos. And Lynn gave us a goal!! Everyone keeps forgetting her I guess cause it was only 1. But LYNN WILLIAMS SCORED IN THE OLYMPICS. The girl who was an alternate! Yeah I’m proud of her.

IDK! I’m nervous about Saturday, but I really think we’ll pull through. As much as I want Marta to get her gold and go out on top, I just feel like we’re gonna scrape through.

[andiessoccerblog]

Friendlies in Name Only: July 14, 2023

Before every World Cup, teams get together a few weeks in advance and play one or two matches to help prepare for the world cup. These games, known as “Friendlies”, don’t count towards any standings, but are meant to see how each team’s rosters work in a real game situation. Some teams play other world-cup bound countries, others don’t. 

There are interesting strategies in these games–do you choose an opponent that will challenge you, or choose an easy win to give your team confidence? Do you start your starters, or start the second string to protect your starters from injury? Do you try to mimic conditions by playing in the host country? Or do you play in your home country? As this is the last game before the World Cup, tensions are always high, and results are always interesting. But I want to lead off with a disclaimer–these games are high strategy and low risk, precisely planned for teams to test things out before the world cup. Any results, good or bad, are not predictors of how teams will do at the world cup. 

USA v Wales

Team USA played one game against Wales, a team that did not qualify for the world cup. This means that Wales could start their best players and play full-on, while the USWNT didn’t necessarily give their full effort. Wales is ranked significantly lower than the USA, so many people expected a blowout. However, Wales held the USA to 0-0 in the first half, sparking doubts about the USA’s offensive line. USA did pull out a 2-0 win with a brace of goals from Trinity Rodman late in the second half, after substitutions provided energy and creativity up front

The USA’s defense also looked shaky–The two starting centerbacks for team USA, Cook and Girma, are great in their own right, but neither has played in a World Cup before. Also, the starting goalkeeper was Casey Murphy, while from 2016 up until earlier this year it has been Alyssa Naeher. This could be an indication that Murphy will be the starting keeper for the World Cup, as teams like to use the same keeper every game to stay in a good rhythm.

Takeaway: USA isn’t in trouble if their offensive line isn’t clicking, they have players on the bench that can create different scoring opportunities to catch opponents off guard late in games.

Germany v. Zambia

This game was the stunner of this week, with #81 Zambia beating #2 ranked Germany, 3-2. I think that Zambia has an advantage that other teams don’t–no one sees them coming. While most other lower-ranked teams approach better teams in a bunker defense designed to keep the other team’s offense out, Zambia’s strategy seems to be throwing all of their weight forward, concentrating on getting the ball to their forwards, including Barbra Banda, who is sure to become a household name in the tournament.

Germany did seem like they were caught off-guard right away. They went two goals down, after their defense allowed some open shots they should have pressured. However, Germany showed their mettle with a very organized approach to come back from a two goal deficit. Zambia only eked out a win after chipping the German keeper in the final seconds of stoppage time–again, unexpected! 

Takeaway: Watch out for Zambia. I think Germany probably approached this game too lightly, but I also think that Zambia maybe showed their hand, which could work against them in the world cup. I’m not worried about Germany–this result just feels unlucky.

Australia v. France

Australia beat France in a 1-0 win yesterday, proving that they are a favorite to win the whole tournament, six days before their first game in Sydney. Both teams looked good and played fiercely, leading to injury concerns on both sides that hopefully don’t amount to anything serious. 

France dominated possession and had more shots than Australia, but without seeing the numbers it looked like Australia had more energy, and maybe even more passion, especially in front of a 50,000-strong crowd. Australia was able to uncover some holes left by France’s defensive med and centerbacks, but France’s backline should work well enough to get them through group stage, at the very least.

Takeaway: I think this says more about Australia than France, and made them look just a little more dangerous than they did before. 

Ireland v. Colombia

This match was played in Australie behind closed doors–but drew attention when the Irish Soccer Federation announced that the match was called off in the 23rd minute after dangerous play caused Irish midfielder Denise O’Sullivan to be sent to the hospital with a shin injury. Colombia also released a statement, saying that their team had played fairly and within the rules, but that they respected the Irish team’s decision to call off the match.

Takeaway: None, really, but I’m here for the DRAMA.

[meazalykov]

redirection IX

esmee brugts x reader

last chapter - next chapter

summary: as you go away for international break, you start to realize that its now or never

a/n: changed this story from first to second person. I don't like writing in first person much sorry

the evening air is warm, a quiet kind of comfort as you and esmee walk back to your apartment after grabbing dinner. 

neither of you says much—just enjoying the peaceful routine you've fallen into over the last couple of weeks since you’ve gotten back from france. 

every day, it’s been something, whether a movie, dinner, or even a late-night grocery run. 

it's become a habit, something you both look forward to without needing to say it out loud.

but you know this comfort is temporary. international break is looming, and tomorrow, esmee will fly off to the netherlands while you head back to the united states.

you're excited to see your uswnt teammates, sure, but there's a lingering heaviness in your chest when you think about being apart from her. 

you’re not even together, not officially, but still, the thought of not having her by your side for the next ten days hits harder than you'd like to admit.

you glance over at her as she’s walking, hands in her pockets, the soft glow of the streetlights catching in her curly soft hair, just as it is with yours. 

she’s smiling faintly, a kind of peace that only exists in moments where she is with you. 

"i am gonna miss this, even if it’s only a ten day break" you murmur, trying to keep your tone light.

esmee’s smile widens a little, and she bumps her shoulder into yours. "me too."

it’s simple. it’s unspoken. but you feel the weight of what she means, of what *you* mean. 

the closeness you’ve built, the way she’s become more than just your teammate at barcelona you’ve grown to care in the last three months. 

she’s become someone you’re scared to go without.

when you’re finally back at your place, the goodbye is a little longer than usual. 

the hug lingers, her arms wrapped around your waist, your chin resting on her shoulder. 

it’s nothing new, but it feels heavier with the knowledge that you won’t see her for almost two weeks.

"i’ll see you soon," she whispers before pulling away, giving you that smile that makes your heart race just a little too fast.

and then she’s gone.

being back with the uswnt in california is a welcome distraction. 

it’s loud, chaotic, the jet lag hits but it’s familiar in the best way. even as you settle into the rhythm of camp, esmee is always in the back of your mind.

"you’ve been quiet," trinity says after training , plopping down next to you on the bench as she takes a sip of her water.

you’ve missed trinity the most out of your entire national team. going from seeing her everyday at washington spirit to barely seeing her at all was an adjustment. 

"usually, you’re more... i don’t know, not as in your head. is there something wrong?"

you laugh softly, shaking your head. "just thinking."

"thinking about what? about a girl?" trinity jokes. 

your silence answers for you, and trinity raises an eyebrow, the corner of her mouth tugging into a smirk. 

"wait, y/n!!!! you’re *serious* about someone? like, actually serious?"

you shrug, feeling a little awkward. the way trinity says it is exactly what she means.

your national and ex-washington teammates know you—know that relationships have never really been your thing. 

you’ve had flings, casual hookups, but nothing with real feelings attached. 

you’ve always preferred it that way. no strings, no complications. but this? this thing with esmee is different.

"she’s... it’s just different trin, okay?" you finally say, rubbing the back of your neck. 

by now, a few other teammates are listening in, their curiosity piqued by the rare sight of you being open about someone. 

alyssa, crystal, and sonnett exchange amused glances, clearly interested.

"who is she?" crystal asks, grinning. "the someone from barcelona?"

you hesitate for a second, but then you nod. "esmee."

trinity lets out a low whistle, and sonnett laughs. 

"okay, i’m gonna need details. you mean esmee brugts? didn’t know you had commitment in you." trinity says, you giggle as she says esmee’s last name wrong. 

you roll your eyes, but you’re smiling, a soft warmth filling your chest as you think about her. 

"it just kinda happened. we’ve been hanging out a lot, and i don’t know... i really like her."

there’s a beat of silence, and then trinity leans in, eyes sparkling. 

"so, what’s the plan? you gonna tell her how you feel?"

"i don’t know," you admit, suddenly feeling nervous. 

"i mean, i think she likes me too, but... i don’t wanna mess things up. what if it’s just me over analyzing her being nice?"

crystal nudges your shoulder. "you’re overthinking it. if you feel it, she probably does too. just go for it."

"easier said than done," you mutter, but there’s a tiny part of you that wonders if maybe, just maybe, they’re right.

over in the netherlands, esmee is having a similar conversation with her teammates. they’ve all noticed the subtle change in her—how she seems distracted, her phone buzzing a little more often, the way she smiles whenever she checks her messages.

"so, who’s the lucky girl?" chasity asks during a team dinner, raising an eyebrow at esmee.

esmee tries to play it cool, but she can feel her cheeks warming. 

"what are you talking about?"

"you’re not subtle, esmee," jackie chimes in, grinning. 

"you’ve been all dreamy-eyed for days now."

esmee sighs, shaking her head. she knows she’s been obvious, but part of her doesn’t care. 

she’s never felt this way about anyone before, and it’s a little overwhelming, but in the best way possible.

"it’s y/n," she finally admits, her voice soft. "from barcelona."

lieke and jackie exchange a glance, their smiles widening. 

"oh, so it’s serious," jackie teases.

"i mean... i think it could be?" esmee says, a little nervously. 

"i’ve never felt like this before. we’re not together, but... i want to be. i just don’t know how to tell her."

jackie leans in, resting her chin on her hand.

"just be honest. if you’re feeling this way, she probably is too. you won’t know unless you try."

esmee nods, her stomach flipping at the thought of confessing her feelings to you. 

she wants to, more than anything, but there’s a part of her that’s terrified of ruining what you have.

"what if she doesn’t feel the same?" esmee asks quietly.

"then at least you know," jackie says gently. 

"but honestly? i don’t think you have anything to worry about. y/n’s been spending all her time with you, right? that’s gotta mean something."

esmee takes a deep breath, nodding. maybe they’re right. maybe this feeling isn’t one-sided after all.

as the days go by, both you and esmee are trying to focus on your respective national teams, but it’s impossible to ignore the constant pull toward each other. 

you catch yourself checking your phone more often, just hoping for a message from her, even if it’s something small. and every time you see her name light up your screen, you can’t help but smile.

by the time the international break is nearing its end, you’ve both made a decision. 

you’re going to tell her how you feel, consequences be damned. the distance has only made it clearer that whatever this is between you, it’s real.

you miss her, and you hope she misses you too.

part X here

[thewebbloghouse]

The GERWNT do like to give their keepers a tough time 😬

I think Chicago have had high points in the past, with some good seasons, but they never really seek to be able to crack through their potential rating. Alyssa is so good, but I just don't think she can hit those highs without the defense, whereas even at the USWNTs worst, the defense was never the problem so she is outstanding.

It is absolutely absurd to me that AKB never got so much of a look in before recently, her play has been so stellar so I will take all AKB praise she's getting this year as a build up of what's she's deserved for a long time (even if it probably makes her uncomfortable, unfortunately being this good at what you do gets you attention sometimes)

AKB was one of the first German players who take the step abroad and the fact that AKB was only regularly nominated for GERWNT when the English FA wanted to naturalize her and wantd her to play for England says everything about, how shit the DFB treated players who don't play at home. Things are much better now and players who play abroad are now also nominated, but many still think that the Bundesliga is the best.

[atlantasoccernews-mktg]

Emma Hayes’ first USWNT squad was without injured player Alyssa Naeher Three uncapped players and a few returning veterans from injury make up the inaugural roster of the United States women’s national team. https://atlantasoccer.news/emma-hayes-first-uswnt-squad-was-without-injured-player-alyssa-naeher/?utm_source=panorama&utm_medium=referral&utm_campaign=panorama

[harristops]

Meanwhile, pure class from Ash as usual.

[trustherkindheart]

One day we'll have a USWNT that's a well organized team and doesn't rely so much on moments of individual greatness on both ends of the pitch