The U.S. women’s national team is heading into a crucial pair of friendlies against Spain without star center back Naomi Girma and defensive midfielder Sam Coffey. This isn’t just a bump in the road, it is a massive test for the reigning Olympic gold medalists, especially when their explicit goal is to win the Women’s World Cup. Spain, who last took home the World Cup title, is the perfect opponent to expose any cracks, and these games are happening a month before World Cup qualifiers and eight months out from the big tournament itself. Talk about high stakes.
The Defensive Hole No One Wanted
Losing Naomi Girma and Sam Coffey to injuries for these friendlies against Spain changes the entire dynamic. The USWNT is known for being an attack-minded force, but they are going to be seriously understaffed in a key area of the pitch. Claire Hutton, a 20-year-old with serious quality, is the likely candidate to step into Coffey’s role. That’s a huge ask, but the real question mark hovers over the center back position.
Head coach Emma Hayes has to work with an eclectic group back there. There’s Tierna Davidson, who was presumed to be Girma’s partner for the World Cup. Then you’ve got Tara Rudd, who joined the squad after the 2024 Olympics, Kennedy Wesley with her seven caps, and Kate Del Fava, who is getting her first call-up to the senior national team after years in the NWSL. It’s a mix of experience and raw talent, but none of them are Girma.
Hayes’ High-Stakes Gamble
Coach Hayes is not one to mince words about the situation. “Can’t do anything about that,” she said, but she definitely isn’t feeling down on her luck. She sees this as an opportunity, telling us, “They’re top players and I can put them in situations this week to create the exposures.” Hayes knows the challenge, saying, “I think developing as a pairing is something that they’re going to have to do, but I believe in them, and I watch their attention to detail.”
She’s especially high on the potential pairing of Davidson and Wesley. Davidson is the type of defender who can really progress the ball up the pitch, great at covering ground, and strong in the air. Wesley, at 25 years old, steps to the play incredibly well. Hayes sees them as “a good complement to each other” and “very intelligent people, so they can solve really good tactical puzzles.” Wesley’s stock has been rising, and she’s been a focal point for the San Diego Wave, who are leading the NWSL in defense. Hayes has watched them all week and is “looking forward to seeing how they progress together.”
This Saturday, October 10th, is the first big test against Spain. The game kicks off at 2:30 p.m. ET at Audi Field in Washington, D.C., broadcast on TBS and streaming on HBO Max. The odds are tight, with the USWNT at +260, a draw at +250, and Spain favored at -110. This is more than just a friendly, it’s a make-or-break moment for figuring out that World Cup defense. You absolutely need to tune in and see how this new-look backline steps up.
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.
Leave a Reply