Emma Hayes is showing why she's the perfect coach for the USWNT. After pushing her players to Olympic limits, she's now giving them something just as valuable – rest.
The coach revealed in a recent ESPN interview that Europe-based players will get the summer window off. This means they'll miss upcoming matches against Ireland and Canada in the coming weeks.
Hayes cited "player welfare" and "recovery" as key reasons for this decision. With the 2027 World Cup in Brazil just two years away, this strategic rest period could pay dividends when the tournament arrives.
For betting enthusiasts, this roster shift creates interesting opportunities. Expect odds to adjust as less experienced players step up against Ireland and Canada, potentially creating value in the underdog markets.
College Star Scores Million-Dollar Goal
UNC sophomore Evelyn Shores just had the week of her life. The 20-year-old scored the winning goal worth $1 million at The Soccer Tournament last week.
Due to NCAA rules, Shores can't actually pocket any of that cash. But money wasn't what made this special for her.
"Playing one-v-one in practice with Carli Lloyd the day after flying in from Germany? That was insane," Shores said. The experience of training alongside USWNT legends proved more valuable than any prize money.
Could Shores be the next talent called up to the senior national team? Her performance certainly puts her name in the conversation as Hayes continues to evaluate new talent.
Angel City Makes Powerful Immigration Statement
Angel City FC turned their match against North Carolina Courage into something bigger than soccer last weekend. Following immigration raids in Los Angeles, the club distributed 10,000 "Immigrant City Football Club" T-shirts to players, staff and fans.
"The fabric of this city is made of immigrants. Football does not exist without immigrants. This club does not exist without immigrants," read the message cards handed out at BMO Stadium.
While Angel City lost the match to North Carolina Courage in the final moments, their off-field actions won widespread praise. The NWSLPA joined with the WNBA players association to release a statement of support.
In other news, the USL Super League crowned its first-ever champion as Tampa Bay Sun defeated Fort Lauderdale United 1-0. And for NWSL fans, mark your calendars – the 2025 NWSL final is heading to San Jose's PayPal Park on November 22.
Meanwhile, U.S. Soccer continues preparations for co-hosting the 2031 Women's World Cup with Mexico. Twenty-nine cities are currently in the running to host matches, with final bids due to FIFA by the end of November.
