MARSEILLE — Being in the mixed zone at Stade de Marseille after an Olympic soccer match is like seeing an impromptu tap show. Each player’s cleats create a chaotic rhythm as they navigate the maze of ropes to fulfill their tournament obligations, punctuated by laughs or sighs based on the game’s outcome.
For the U.S. women’s national team, fresh off a 4-1 win against Germany, the positive atmosphere continued. Center-back Naomi Girma playfully made her way through the press area while Jenna Nighswonger helped her maintain her balance. Some players even opted to remove their cleats and wear socks. Despite the different approaches, everyone shared a buoyant yet focused mood.
While the USWNT leads Group B with six points from two games and secures a spot in the quarterfinals at the 2024 Olympics, the journey is just starting. A win or draw against Australia ensures first place in the group and a trip to Paris for the knockout rounds later this week.
“We’re playing with more structure and discipline, and I think we’re enjoying ourselves too,” midfielder Rose Lavelle noted. “We have a lot of talented players, and we’re starting to connect. But we believe there’s another level we can reach.”
At last year’s World Cup, the U.S. scored four goals in three group stage matches before Sweden knocked them out on penalties in the round of 16. In the current Olympics, the team has already scored seven goals in two games, including four against Germany.
The discussion in the mixed zone mainly revolved around the special players on the team, with Sophia Smith, Mal Swanson, and Trinity Rodman all having scored. The players’ admiration for their teammates reflects the trust and selflessness within the squad.
“I’ll do anything to help the team succeed,” Swanson emphasized. “It doesn’t matter who scores, as long as we win. The effort we put in during training is paying off, and we’re seeing the results.”
Despite their early success, the USWNT anticipates more significant challenges ahead, knowing they haven’t reached their full potential yet.
“This is only our sixth or seventh game playing together up front,” Smith commented. “We’re clicking fast, but we believe there’s another 30% potential in us.”
Compared to last year, when the team excelled defensively, they have found their offensive firepower early in the Olympics with strong performances from Girma, Naeher, and the rest of the squad.
“You see a collective effort from every player,” Naeher explained. “The defensive mindset combined with goals is significant for us, especially scoring early to set the right tone.”
The early leads are crucial, but it was Lynn Williams’ goal in the second half that felt like a breakthrough, showcasing the team’s ruthlessness throughout the game.
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Coach Emma Hayes was pleased with the team’s performance, emphasizing the importance of squad depth and finishing chances at the top level.
“Every player contributes to the team’s success defensively and offensively,” Williams added. “We believe in each other, and that’s what helps us get the job done.”
Hayes acknowledged the team’s character and resilience in the game against Germany, highlighting their ability to overcome challenges and contribute in all areas of the pitch.
“We have to maintain the momentum and recover for the next game,” Hayes stressed. “We must analyze our performance, control what we can, and secure a win against Australia.”
The players will have a rest day without travel on Monday, but in a tournament like the Olympics, rest doesn’t mean a full day off.
“We’ll enjoy tonight and prepare for the next game in two days,” Lavelle assured.
(Top photo: Getty Images)