Rising stars up the energy as US chase third straight World Cup title
Download the Sports Brief App Now to Stay Updated on Fresh Sports News!
The United States believe that young talent combined with the savvy of veterans such as Megan Rapinoe will make a lethal combination as they seek an unprecedented third straight Women's World Cuptitle.
Coach Vlatko Andonovski named 14 WorldCup newcomers in his 23-player squad for the tournament in Australia and New Zealand, which kicks off on July 20.
The holders and favourites still also have the likes of Rapinoe and Alex Morgan — both headed for a fourth World Cup — and Andonovski is doing nothing to dampen expectations.
«I'm excited about the energy and the enthusiasm that the young players bring, the intensity and the drive as well,» the 46-year-old said before their arrival this week in Auckland.
«I think that will be one of our advantages.»
Injuries to captain Becky Sauerbrunn, striker Mallory Swanson and the talented Catarina Macario have been a blow to the Americans, but the stage is set for their youngsters to shine.
Ranking the top 10 best Brazilian football strikers of all-time
FootballThey include the 22-year-old Sophia Smith, the National Women's Soccer League MVP with Portland last year. She has scored 12 goals in 30 appearances for the USA.
Also among the newcomers are Trinity Rodman, the 2021 NWSL rookie of the year and daughter of former NBA star Dennis Rodman.
There is also the 18-year-old Angel City FC forward Alyssa Thompson, the second-youngest player ever named in a US World Cup squad.
The Americans, chasing a fifth World Cup crown overall, will also be able to count on Rose Lavelle, Lindsey Horan and Crystal Dunn, all veterans of the 2019 World Cup campaign that saw the Americans triumph against the backdrop of their battle
Read on sportsbrief.com
