The USWNT battled to a gritty 2-2 draw against Spain in Chester, Pa., in front of 18,648 screaming fans. But let’s be crystal clear: Spain reminded everyone exactly why they are the undisputed best team in the world, and what our squad needs to do to get there. It felt like a high-stakes clash from the jump, a true heavyweight fight, and even with Mallory Swanson drawing level in the 86th minute, the work ahead for the 2027 World Cup became incredibly clear.
The “Best in the World” Are No Joke
Spain is the team to beat, period. No matter who Sonia Bermudez throws out there, that squad plays compact defense and then pulls you out of position to finish their own chances. Our USWNT *used* to be in that untouchable spot, dominating the global game. Now, we’re among the favorites, sure, but not *the* favorites, and Coach Hayes knows it. After the camp, she said it straight up: “They’re the best team in the world. I didn’t learn anything that I didn’t already know.” She’s trying to figure out the best XI on the fly, and it doesn’t help that key players like Naomi Girma, who was supposed to be in camp, are sidelined with injuries. It’s those little moments that separate the top-tier sides, and right now, Spain is showing us exactly how high that bar is set.
Moments of Brilliance, Moments to Grow
While Emily Fox tried to set a physical tone early, that bite didn’t last the whole match. Worse, ball watching helped gift Spain their second goal, a mistake you just can’t make at this level. That said, this team proved they can still compete with the best, and there were bright spots. Ashley Sanchez, in her first start since October 2024, came up huge with a memorable finish in the second half, her first goal since 2022. She took on two Spanish defenders like it was nothing, pure class. And obviously, Mallory Swanson’s 86th-minute equalizer was clutch! Getting her back to her best is critical; she bagged four goals and two assists in just six matches in Paris. This team can fight back, no doubt, and they can defeat anyone on their day, the Olympics proved that.
But here’s the kicker: they have to add consistency, and that’s been lacking. As the road to the 2027 World Cup gets clearer, closing that gap with Spain is the absolute focus. The challenge is laid out, and our USWNT has to step up. They’ve got the talent, they’ve got the fight, now they need to bring that consistent elite performance every single game. The countdown to 2027 is on, and watching them put all the pieces together will be a wild ride.
This article was created with AI assistance and published under Seattle On Tap’s editorial standards. See our Editorial Policy.
Originally reported by CBS Sports.
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