The Women's Game

🔥 NWSL: Gotham Still on Top as Portland Bounce Back

This weekend had it all: Kansas City’s Debinha became the league’s top goal scorer across all NWSL competitions, Trinity Rodman faced off against her former teammate and friend Ashley Sanchez, the “Ted Lasso ” crew showed up, and there was even a tiff between two coaches both pushing for playoff contention. The NWSL is nothing if not intense. Read on for all the action!

Gotham FC 🦇 1-0 San Diego Wave 🌊

On Friday, Gotham strengthened their grip on first place after silencing San Diego with a 1-0 win at Sports Illustrated Stadium. The difference maker for the Bats was ironically Jaedyn Shaw, who scored against her former side just before the half. Demonstrating incredible hold-up play, Gotham rookie Jordynn Dudley fought off several defenders before turning and picking out Shaw on the edge of the box, who curled one into the far corner past Wave goalkeeper Sandra Paños.

At the other end, Gotham’s No. 1 keeper Ann-Katrin Berger returned to action after missing two games, and made three saves to maintain a clean sheet despite a handful of threatening moments from the visitors, including a late header from Canadian Adriana Leon.

Washington Spirit 💛 3-4 North Carolina Courage 💙

A wild seven-goal match ensued between the Spirit and the Courage with familiar foes Rodman and Sanchez battling it out. Early on, North Carolina scored three in quick succession, including the opener from Ashley Sanchez, who snuck behind the backline for this beautiful volley into the back of the net, for her 11th of the season (just one shy of Banda’s record in the Golden Boot race). The Spirit roared to life in the second half, as Trinity Rodman sparked the comeback with her ninth tally of the year. Washington thought they had salvaged a draw with goals from Italian international Sofia Cantore and defender Rebeca Bernal until Courage center-back Natalie Jacobs made a darting run in stoppage time, finishing clinically past goalkeeper Sandy MacIver to help seal North Carolina’s third win in three games.

Boston Legacy 💚 3-4 Portland Thorns 🌹

Coming off their worst defeat of the season to the Royals, Portland unleashed a torrent of early goals against the Legacy on Sunday, which had them up 3-0 by the 10th minute — the fastest start in league history. Signaling what was to come, Pietra Tordin delivered a pinpoint ball off a free kick that bent over the wall and inside the near post. Minutes later, striker Sophia Wilson slipped her ninth goal of the season past keeper Casey Murphy, before a turnover led to Tordin’s second of the night.

However, Portland’s best goal came from goalkeeper Mackenzie Arnold, who split the Legacy defense with a long ball over the top to Tordin, who then chipped Murphy. This marked the fifth goalkeeper assist in NWSL regular-season history and Tordin’s first-ever hat-trick. The Thorns’ shaky defense still remains a concern as they allowed Boston to almost stage a comeback, with the league debutantes pushing yet another seasoned team to the brink.

🤩 Other Highlights:

The question everyone’s been asking this season: Who has Utah’s number? Apparently Denver does! Get a load of co-captain Janine Sonis’ goal at 93:39 to deliver the latest direct free-kick winner in NWSL history in front of a rapturous home crowd.

Racing Louisville USWNT forward Emma Sears bagged a brace in Orlando to give her side the win, making her the club’s all-time lead scorer.
In Seattle, TWG co-host Lynn Biyendolo and baby Lucky were in attendance to cheer on the Reign vs. Angel City. L.A.’s Gisele Thompson converted a brilliant left-footed strike, only for Seattle to knock the wind out of the visitors with a one-two punch. Ultimately, ACFC held onto the last playoff spot thanks to two super-subs — Evelyn Shores back from injury and Prisca Chilufya returning from WAFCON. The pair combined to equalize, which ended the match in a tough draw no one wanted (particularly the two embattled coaches who clashed at the final whistle).

More: Check out the full NWSL standings here.

🇺🇸 Three Players Worth Another Look for the USWNT

While USWNT coach Emma Hayes may be honing in on her World Cup roster, the NWSL is in full swing, giving her plenty to think about ahead of a packed fall with back-to-back friendlies vs. No. 1-ranked Spain and World Cup qualification. With recent injuries to defensive midfielder Sam Coffey, center-back Emily Sonnett, and the forward line still clicking, we’ve identified three players — beyond the electric Ashley Sanchez — who could step up to bolster the USWNT squad or provide valuable veteran leadership heading into camp.

🧠 The Technical Playmaker: Pietra Tordin (Portland Thorns)

If her hat-trick this weekend wasn’t proof enough, 22-year-old Pietra Tordin is a force to be reckoned with, leading the NWSL in goal contributions with seven goals and eight assists. Her growing chemistry with USWNT star striker Sophia Wilson has also been wonderful to witness. Just watch Wilson’s dummy run from the weekend on the Thorns’ second goal, perfectly timed with the spatial awareness of Tordin lurking on the edge of the box. As a versatile playmaker that can deputize as a winger, striker or attacking midfielder, Tordin’s technical ability and work rate will be hard for Hayes to ignore. Plus, she’s a dual national with Brazil, so the USWNT should scoop her up fast!

😮‍💨 The Aerial Threat: Taylor Flint (Racing Louisville)

Although Claire Hutton has made moves to cement herself as a backup to Sam Coffey, we can’t help but think back to the header blitzes from Julie Ertz’s playing days. While midfielder Lindsey Horan is known for her headers on the USWNT, Louisville’s Taylor Flint could also help in this department. At 6’1’’ Flint is a dominant force in the air, both in the opposition’s box and in duels across the pitch. She has also showcased her proactiveness, leading the NWSL with 52 interceptions, and her unflappability under pressure by converting all three of her penalties from the spot.

⚔️ The Veteran Wildcard: Sarah Gorden (Angel City)

The USWNT backline took a major hit with veteran leader Emily Sonnett tearing her patellar tendon last month. With ACFC stalwart Sarah Gorden proving she can go toe-to-toe with any elite striker in the world, Hayes might consider enlisting the seasoned defender, known for her pace and composure. Much like the Lo’eau LaBonta call-up last year, Gorden’s veteran presence would bring steadiness to the USWNT camp, helping to keep standards high and prepare younger players for next summer.

🇲🇼 Malawi Advance to WAFCON Semifinals & First World Cup!

Malawi’s miraculous WAFCON debut campaign reached ecstatic, new heights in Rabat on Sunday. Engineering an extraordinary 2-1 comeback over Ghana, the Scorchers officially made it to the final four, as well as their first Women’s World Cup. Never far from the action, Temwa Chawinga equalized with a thunderous strike deflected off the Ghanaian defense. Then, deadlocked at 1-1 late in the second half, the Kansas City star spurred her team onward, cutting inside to find Rose Kadzere who delivered an incisive finish past goalkeeper Cynthia Konlan before being swarmed by her teammates in a frenzy of joy.

Overcoming incredible odds, the Scorchers achieved a historic feat as WAFCON debutantes and the lowest FIFA-ranked side, sitting in 153rd. They were also drawn into the daunting “Group of Death” featuring 10-time champions Nigeria, Zambia, and Egypt, and managed to not only survive, but ultimately top their group — outlasting the Super Falcons, Copper Queens, and Cleopatras.

Behind the scenes, Malawi’s unlikely ascent also embodies the triumphant journey of sisters Tabitha and Temwa Chawinga. Growing up in rural Malawi, the close-knit siblings faced stigma and discouragement from family, friends and neighbors for pursuing their footballing dreams, often playing with boys in an environment devoid of opportunities for young girls. Eventually, Tabitha made the leap to Sweden, encouraging her coach to give her younger sister a trial. (Their story is nothing short of inspiring). While Temwa has since carved out her own path in Europe, China and in the U.S. as a two-time NWSL MVP, the sisters’ tenacity and unbreakable bond has helped them make WAFCON and World Cup history.

🌍 The Semifinals Are Set

Algeria 🇩🇿 vs. Malawi 🇲🇼 (TOMORROW, 1 p.m. ET, beIN Sports)

Joining Malawi in the WAFCON semifinals are the Fennecs, who defeated Ivory Coast 2-1 to become the first team to book their spot in their first-ever WAFCON semifinal: they will be World Cup debutantes next summer as well! While the Scorchers may have two of the tournament’s most elite goal scorers in the Chawinga sisters, Algeria boasts one of the strongest defenses, only conceding once in the group stage. Additionally, keep an eye on Bristol City’s Marine Dafeur — Algeria’s top scorer — and new Washington Spirit recruit Mélissa Bethi, who has also proven to be a handful this tournament.

Morocco 🇲🇦 vs. Cameroon 🇨🇲 (TOMORROW, 4 p.m. ET, beIN Sports)

On the more-experienced side of the semifinal bracket, Cameroon returns to the final four for the 11th time, aiming to make their first final in a decade. In Casablanca over the weekend, the Indomitable Lionesses shocked reigning champions Nigeria with a 1-0 victory, thanks to 19-year-old defender Maéva Nyadjou’s stunning free kick and impressive goalkeeping by Michaely Bihina, whose nine saves and clean sheet earned her Player of the Match.

Tomorrow will mark a clash of lionesses with Cameroon squaring off against hosts Morocco, who knocked out South Africa over the weekend. With home advantage, the Atlas Lionesses will hope third time’s the charm after coming in as runner-up the past two tournaments. WAFCON is also set to have a new winner crowned this year, following the exits of previous champions, Nigeria and South Africa.

More: In a last-ditch effort to qualify for the World Cup, on Thursday the Ivory Coast will take on Ghana (1 p.m. ET) while the Super Falcons will go head to head with 2022 WAFCON champions South Africa (4 p.m. ET) in hopes of advancing to the FIFA Intercontinental Play-off Tournament. 🙏

🗞️ News & Notes

Megan Rapinoe is stepping back into the spotlight! A new documentary following her last World Cup will premiere at the Toronto Film Festival.
A golden chance to impress Emma Hayes: The USWNT coach revealed that she will attend the U-20 World Cup to scout for fresh talent and hopes that young players will make the most of the opportunity.
Washington’s all-time leading goal scorer is BACK. The Spirit officially activated striker Ashley Hatch following her maternity leave.
For the good of the game: Lucy Bronze and her English teammates stand in solidarity with UEFA when it comes to the proposed FIFA boycott… even if it means missing the World Cup.
The team that dances together wins together? That’s what Alyssa Thompson and Naomi Girma are counting on ahead of the WSL season.
What a reception! New Bay FC signing Jenna Nighswonger touched down, only to be greeted by a couple of club founders and USWNT greats.

🤔 It’s TWG Trivia Time

This week’s question:

Select the correct response for a chance to win a coveted TWG patch.

Last week’s answer: In 2024, Nigerian striker Asisat Oshoala made her debut for Bay FC and scored a goal against Angel City FC.

The first to respond correctly was kgibson@kofirm.com. Drop us a quick email and we’ll send along a TWG patch! 💌

🤸 Moment of Joy

Meg writes: I am a huge fan of the show. My question is regarding Emma Sears asking for a trade from Louisville. It made sense to me that she wanted to leave a team like Louisville to set herself up better to make the World Cup roster, and I was surprised that when Louisville rejected the transfer request it didn't make much of a headline. It reminded me of Chloe Kelly asking for a trade from Man City and turning to instagram to eventually move to Arsenal. Why do you think this hasn't made as much news? Do you think her spot on the World Cup roster is in jeopardy by staying in Louisville?

Thanks!
Meg

Sam writes: Hi Meg, I wasn’t all that surprised to see Emma Sears push for a trade with Racing Louisville struggling so much this season. She’s clearly looking to push herself and make the World Cup next summer. At the same time, I understand why Louisville didn’t want to trade their best player in the middle of the season before securing an adequate replacement.

While Chloe Kelly’s lack of minutes at City put her national team spot at risk, Sears doesn’t have that problem in terms of playing time. Emma Hayes also rates her very highly. I don’t think she has anything to worry about as long as she keeps her standards up. That said, I wouldn’t be shocked if she moves following the season to compete in a more challenging environment. Thanks for writing in! 🫶

Love,
Sam

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Rodman & Sanchez's Rivalry Weekend 🔥

Sam Mewis — Fri, 07 Aug 2026 09:30:00 +0000

Happy Friday, TWG readers!

I hope everyone has had a great week. I’m enjoying a few days off, but I had to check in ahead of this weekend. The WAFCON tournament is heating up with all the quarterfinal matchups finally confirmed. After an electrifying group stage run, I can’t wait to see Malawi and the Chawinga sisters go up against Ghana in a bid to qualify for their first-ever World Cup. 🇲🇼 🇬🇭

I also have one eye on the NWSL as the race for those coveted playoff spots continues! Ashley Sanchez and the North Carolina Courage face a big challenge on Saturday as they take on Trinity Rodman and the Washington Spirit… a “Sandman” reunion you don’t want to miss. Plus, a miniature version of the 2027 Women’s World Cup is happening between Gotham and San Diego, featuring up to 11 global national team stars, including Rose Lavelle, Kenza Dali, and Sam Kerr. Read on for your guide to three standout matches this weekend and my scouting report on an up-and-coming midfielder I’m excited to watch. 🔍

We also just released our latest “Friendlies” episode with USWNT and Chicago Stars forward Mallory Swanson that was SO FUN to record. I had a great time catching up with Mal and hearing all about her journey through pregnancy and returning to play after giving birth to her beautiful baby Josie. Having known Mal for so long, it’s incredible to see her become a mom. She embodies such a wonderful mix of grace, greatness and groundedness. I really encourage you to check out the episode if you haven’t yet. 🎙️

Thanks for listening and being part of the TWG community! 🫶

Love,
Sam

P.S. Denver fans, be on the lookout! TWG will be coming to Mile High City on Sept. 1. Keep an eye out for updates coming soon in this newsletter, and mark your calendars for a night you won't want to miss! ⛰️

P.P.S. To see it, is to “BELIEVE” it. Check out which real-life women footballers inspired the new “Ted Lasso ” cast. ✨

📣 TWG HQ Bulletin Board

🌄 Lindsey Heaps Sidelined as Courage Claim Victory

By Laura Swanbeck

Denver Summit ⛰️ 0-2 North Carolina Courage 💙

Shortly before the first-ever meeting between Denver and the Courage (and so last minute it didn’t even make the availability reports), news broke that co-captain Lindsey Heaps wouldn’t be cleared to play due to a nagging leg injury. Despite this major miss, the Summit soldiered on. To their credit, they managed to neutralize two of North Carolina’s most fearsome attackers — Ashley Sanchez and Evelyn Ijeh — who have both been on a tear recently. The former is currently the runner-up in the Golden Boot race and the latter just completed a hat-trick last weekend to stun Orlando. (And, no, the altitude didn’t phase them either.)

In the second half, the Courage amped up the pressure. After a foul on young Lioness Erica Meg Parkinson, North Carolina earned a penalty kick that USWNT prospect Riley Jackson converted from the spot. Then, later in the half, the Courage lofted a perfect ball over the top to forward Ally Schlegel, who scored after beating Janine Sonis in a footrace and goalkeeper Abby Smith who came off her line. Schlegel, who is a Colorado native, then ran to her mom and grandma in the stands to celebrate.

With the departure of Manaka Matsukubo to Chelsea in June, the Courage have shown their savviness by recruiting rising star Parkinson, who is already impressing, despite her brief stint with the club (she also received her first senior call-up with the England Lionesses this year). Parkinson has proven to be a clear attacking threat with both her dynamic dribbling in the box, which led directly to the opening goal, as well as her long-range shooting capability. With the Washington Spirit up next, she’ll face stiff competition in the middle of the park where matchups against fierce competitors like Hal Hershfelt and Tara Rudd will fully test her mettle.

Plus: Check out what the NWSL table looks like after Week 15. The Shield Standings Series, presented by CarMax. 📈

🗓️ NWSL: Three Weekend Match-ups to Bring You Joy

We were treated to a dizzying number of goals last weekend: North Carolina ran rings around Orlando (5-0), while Utah conceded early to Portland (giving us flashbacks to the Royals of old) only to shake it off and complete a stunning 5-1 comeback.

Will we see more NWSL After Dark chaos or nail-biting close-calls this weekend? Either way, we’ll be tuning in for all the action. Here are three of the best match-ups for your weekend enjoyment and one player who should be on your radar.

Gotham 🦇 vs. San Diego Wave 🌊 (Friday, 8 p.m. ET, Prime Video)

Tonight, the Bats welcome the Wave in this highly anticipated coast-to-coast clash between Gotham perched in first place and San Diego sitting in fourth. While the Wave triumphed 2-0 in their first meeting of the year at Snapdragon, it will be a major coup if they can win on the road against a team with the strongest defensive record in the league (the Bats have only conceded 12 goals total this season). Gotham must adjust to an Emily Sonnett-less backline after she suffered a season-ending injury vs. Portland. And it will be intriguing to see if goalkeeper Ann-Katrin Berger returns after resting for two matches or if Shelby Hogan, who has kept three clean sheets in three starts, is deputized in her stead.

🔍 Sam’s Scouting Report: After watching San Diego knock the Spirit out of first place, I was so impressed by Wave rookie Lia Godfrey who scored her fifth goal of the season and fourth game-winner, setting a new single-season club record. She seems to be one for the big moments. To have the calm and composure to chip the keeper when in on goal like that speaks volumes about her mentality. In a game that close, you may not get many chances, but she really made hers count and is building a strong case for Rookie of the Year. This weekend, I’m looking forward to watching her face another really tough opponent, Gotham FC, to see if she can continue this amazing run of form and help her team keep climbing the table.

Washington Spirit 💛 vs. North Carolina Courage 💙 (Saturday, 6:30 p.m. ET, ION)

Former teammates, best friends, fierce rivals. On Saturday, Spirit star Trinity Rodman and Courage attacker Ashley Sanchez will be reunited with both their teams’ ambitions and individual glory on the line (Sanchez is the current runner-up in the Golden Boot race with 10 tallies while Rodman is on 8 goals so far this year). While the Spirit are the favorites in this match-up, especially with home field advantage, they will no doubt be wary of the Courage’s recent form, with the Sanchez-Evelyn Ijeh connection only growing stronger and new recruit Erica Meg Parkinson helping to pull the strings in the midfield.

Boston Legacy 💚 vs. Portland Thorns 🌹 (Sunday, 4 p.m. ET, CBS Sports)

To cap off the weekend, we head to New England where the Legacy welcome the Thorns for the first meeting in franchise history. Coming off a 5-1 hammering vs. Utah, Portland will look to put last week behind them. Boston, meanwhile, are aiming to reassert themselves after settling for a 1-1 draw vs. Denver. With Legacy striker Aïssata Traoré still away at WAFCON, other members of Boston’s attack, like Amanda Gutierres and Sammy Smith, will need to step up and show their quality. Boston’s backline, including USWNT defender Lilly Reale, will also have their hands full with Portland’s Sophia Wilson — already on eight goals this season — and the league’s current assist leader, Pietra Tordin, who will be eager to bounce back.

🌍 WAFCON: Malawi Make History as Zambia Crash Out

“C” apparently stands for “chaos” in WAFCON’s Group C. The notorious “Group of Death,” which included Nigeria, Malawi, Zambia and Egypt, lived up to its billing this week. For a fleeting moment following their 2-1 win over Malawi, Zambia mistakenly believed they had booked a spot in the quarterfinal. In fact, if results had stood at halftime, they would indeed have progressed. However, in the second half, Malawi’s captain Tabitha Chawinga fought off two defenders and fired a low strike past the Copper Queens’ goalkeeper to give them a lifeline in their WAFCON campaign.

In the end, reigning champions Nigeria, Malawi, and Zambia all finished level on six points, with identical head-to-head records and goal differentials. The tiebreaker? Head-to-head goals scored. That criteria catapulted Malawi (who topped the group) and Nigeria, after pummeling Egypt 6-2, to the knockout round, with Zambia’s hard-fought campaign ending in heartbreak. Sadly, such a competitive group meant that one team was bound to fall short. After Zambia bowed out, with both their WAFCON and World Cup dreams ending in one fell swoop, Captain Banda shared a heartfelt message thanking everyone for their support.

The Quarterfinals Await: This weekend’s knockout rounds carry significant weight, with the winners automatically qualifying for next summer’s World Cup. All eyes will be on Nigeria, as a beacon for African women’s football, to see if they make it to their 10th World Cup. We’ll also be cheering on debutantes Malawi and the unstoppable Chawinga sisters, who could book their ticket to their first-ever World Cup and redefine the future of the sport for young girls and women across their nation.

2026 WAFCON Quarterfinals

Ivory Coast vs. Algeria (Saturday, 1 pm ET )
Morocco vs. South Africa (Saturday, 4 pm ET)
Cameroon vs Nigeria (Sunday, 1 pm ET)
Malawi vs. Ghana (Sunday, 4 pm ET)

More: WAFCON needs better broadcast coverage and greater accessibility. But, as The Athletic argues, we shouldn’t let it overshadow the extraordinary accomplishments on the pitch.

🕰️ This Week Remembered

A USWNT-Canada rivalry match is always fiery, but the 2012 Olympics semifinal at Old Trafford was one for the storybooks. It included a Christine Sinclair hat-trick special, a Megan Rapinoe “Olympico” — the first in Olympic women’s soccer history, and a dramatic build-up to a 3‑3 deadlock.

Then, in the waning moments, USWNT midfielder Heather O’Reilly whipped in a wicked cross that Alex Morgan, in true “Baby Horse” fashion, leapt up and launched over Canadian goalkeeper Erin McLeod to the consternation of Canadians and jubilation of American fans the world over. Check out the goal above! 🤯

🍿 “Snacks”

Counterprogramming to…the Super Bowl? The NWSL is set to begin the 2027 season a whole month early with next summer’s World Cup shifting the calendar.
Another trade to Gotham, another day that ends in a “y.” The Bats have signed New York native, former North Carolina Courage stalwart and friend of TWG Meredith Speck as an injury replacement for Emily Sonnett, who has been placed on the season-ending injury list.
An epic showdown: Reigning WSL champs Man City and perennial powerhouse Barcelona will face off in a pre-season friendly, and the recent trade of Brazilian international Kerolin makes it personal.
Queen of Hearts: After taking Heart of Midlothian football club from the cusp of relegation to the top of the Scottish prem, Eva Olid has now taken the reins at Manchester United Women.
Some very special arrivals have touched down in Seattle! Lynn is back stateside with her husband Marley and new baby Lucky Biyendolo, and her Reign teammates wasted no time showing them all the love.

🧩 TWG Mad Libs

This week’s phrase: The inspiration for today’s Mad Lib comes from “Good Vibes” when Sam said winning at kickball felt as good as triumphing at the World Cup.

The thrill of ___________ rivals winning the World Cup.

Email us your most hilarious takes for the chance to receive a TWG Patch. ✍️

Last week’s Mad Libs winner: Congratulations to Leah Cohen, who said that trying to find a stream of WAFCON was similar to… trying to find a picture of Sam Mewis in a Becky Sauerbrunn Portland Thorns jersey. 💀

Thanks for making us laugh, Leah! Send us an email, so we can get your patch in the mail. 💌

🤸 Moment of Joy: Celebrating Tobin Heath

Imagine being so beloved that your former club invites you to come out of retirement for a final swan song. That’s exactly what happened to Tobin Heath (and what’s giving us joy this week). The former midfield dynamo will sign a one-day contract to retire on Aug. 22 as a Portland Thorn (the team she played for from 2013 to 2020) to close out her venerable career on her terms. During her time with Portland, she influenced countless aspiring athletes and helped her team secure the 2016 NWSL Shield and win two NWSL Championships in 2013 and 2017.

After suffering a degenerative knee injury, Heath officially announced her retirement last year and was honored in March by the USWNT for her incredible contributions (these five magical moments honestly only scratch the surface). Over the past few years, Heath hasn’t slowed down, continuing to broadcast The RE—CAP Show with Christen Press, breaking barriers as the only woman in the FIFA Club World Cup Technical Study Group, earning induction into the National Soccer Hall of Fame, and serving as an analyst at this summer’s World Cup. Is there anything she can’t do?

She will be remembered as a quintessential tiki-taka technical maestro, the Queen of the Nutmeg, and a Thorns and USWNT legend with unparalleled style. Bravo, Portland, for honoring a player who gave everything to the game, and we hope more clubs follow suit to give players their flowers. 💐

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Royals Stun Again & FIFA Crisis Averted 😮‍💨

Megan Swanick — Tue, 04 Aug 2026 09:30:00 +0000

Happy Tuesday, TWG readers!

If you’ve been waiting to hear how kickball went… I have great news. I scored two runs AND caught the game-ending ball to secure my team’s win. Yes, I have been telling anyone who will listen and, yes, it was just as good as winning the World Cup. Seriously though, I was so happy and it was such a good reminder that I love sports and… I love winning! 💪

There’s lots to discuss with Lynn this week on “Good Vibes,” which drops today! She’s just returned to Seattle after spending time in Australia on maternity leave. We’re talking about how her new baby Lucky did on the flight, how she’s feeling being back in America, and recapping all the soccer from this weekend, including NWSL and WAFCON. 🌍

I’m also so excited for “Friendlies” on Thursday — this week’s guest is none other than USWNT and Chicago Stars forward Mallory Swanson! It was so great to catch up with Mal and hear all about her return to play after having baby Josie. 💫

I hope you all have a great week ahead! 🫶

Love,
Sam

P.S. You know it’s spidey season when the whole team is shooting web-slingers. 🕸️

📣 TWG HQ Bulletin Board

🤩 NWSL: NC’s Statement Win & Utah Topple Thorns

This weekend kicked off in style with goals galore, gritty defending, and a star shaking up the Golden Boot race. Below we break down the top three games:

North Carolina 💙 5-0 Orlando Pride 💜

NWSL action opened with a bang (North Carolina) and a whimper (Orlando), when the Courage snapped a three-game winless streak, thrashing the Pride 5-0. Swedish striker Evelyn Ijeh stole the show, completing her first NWSL hat-trick in the second fewest games out of any player. To cap it off, Ashley Sanchez had the audacity to pull off this spin-move to finish her 10th goal this season — leapfrogging Temwa Chawinga on nine goals in the Golden Boot race and gaining ground on Barbra Banda with 12 tallies.

Washington Spirit 💛 0-1 San Diego Wave 🌊

After three games without a win, the Wave squared up against the then-league leaders at Audi Field and took home all three points. San Diego’s Lia Godfrey continued to make a case for Rookie of the Year, scoring her fifth of the season by chipping goalkeeper Sandy MacIver to secure the victory. At the other end of the pitch, right-back Mimi Van Zanten and USWNT center-back Kennedy Wesley formed a dynamic defensive duo that kept Washington’s Trinity Rodman at bay, ending her consecutive streak of goal contributions.

The night also marked two milestones: midfielder Kimmi Ascanio became the youngest player in NWSL history to reach 50 appearances (at just 18 years old), surpassing Olivia Moultrie’s record, while veteran Kristen McNabb logged her 100th regular‑season match — the first Wave player to hit triple digits.

Utah Royals 👑 5-1 Portland Thorns 🌹

In Utah, striker Sophia Wilson only needed 34 seconds to find the back of the net, scoring her eighth goal this year. The USWNT star also made history as the only NWSL player ever to score two goals in the opening minute of a match. The breakthrough came when forward Pietra Tordin fed a beautiful through-ball in behind, and Wilson got the jump on defender Kate Del Fava before slotting one home.

Despite the promising start, Utah’s resilience shone through as attacker Cece Delzer sparked the comeback in the 35th minute, and from there the Royals dismantled the Thorns’ backline with ruthless precision. Delzer bagged a brace, winger Cloé Lacasse contributed three assists, and, in one of the game’s best moments you’ll want to replay, forward Kiana Palacios delivered a cheeky back-heel past goalkeeper Mackenzie Arnold in the 79th minute. By the final whistle, Utah had tallied five goals, reminding everyone that the third-place Royals are nothing if not serious contenders.

Sam’s Take 🗣️: This was a huge win for Utah and showed that there's a lot to this team. I think what strikes me most is how easy it would have been for Utah to let this slip. They got scored on early, which can be so mentally and emotionally draining. To fight back and not just win, but win by that margin says so much about the Royals. They are clearly a team to keep an eye on the rest of the season. 👀

Elsewhere around the NWSL, the weekend brought plenty of drama:

🦇 To reach the top of the table, Gotham ground out a 1-0 win vs. Houston, marking their 11th shutout of the season and equalling the single-season club record. Sam Kerr scored the game winner (assisted by former Chelsea teammate Guro Reiten) to become Gotham’s joint all-time leading goal scorer, alongside Esther González who recently departed the club.

👑 In her second appearance since returning from injury, Seattle’s Jess Fishlock, subbed on in the 84th minute vs. Bay FC and, moments after entering, found the game winner — reminding everyone why she’s a Reign icon.

🪽 Angel City’s Ally Sentnor also helped her side battle to a tough 1-1 draw away at her former club Kansas City, which has managed to maintain a 26-match unbeaten streak at home.

⛰️💚 Summit co-captain Janine Sonis also salvaged a point in the Boston-Denver expansion-side derby, while Boston’s Casey Murphy became only the fourth goalkeeper in NWSL history to assist a goal.

Sam’s Take 🗣️: Murphy's assist to Sammy Smith was one for the books. It is SO impressive that a goalkeeper is clocked into the counter-attack like that... even more so, in this case, than Denver's backline. Casey also made six saves in this game and, while Boston only came away with a point, I was excited to award our CVS Community Assist of the Week to a goalkeeper. 🧤

👀 Mark Your Calendars for Midweek NWSL Action

Denver Summit ⛰️ vs. North Carolina Courage 💙 (Wednesday, 10 p.m. ET, CBS Sports)

After a blistering 5-0 win, North Carolina sit in seventh place ahead of this week’s tough test at Mile-High City. After a brief three-game lull, the league’s No. 2 in goals, Ashley Sanchez, is back to scoring bangers, and Swedish forward Evelyn Ijeh has also been unstoppable with four goals in two games. That blazing form could make the difference as they face Denver, who have conceded the second-fewest goals of any team outside the top four. After drawing Boston Legacy 1-1 in Sunday night’s battle of debutantes, Denver will be determined to secure their first win in three games.

🥺 Women’s Soccer Would Have Borne Brunt of FIFA’s Scheme

Last week, The Times of London reported that FIFA planned to sell private stakes in FIFA’s most lucrative events, including the men’s and women’s FIFA World Cup. Interestingly, the 25-page pitch never once mentioned women’s football, nor did it take into consideration any adverse outcomes.

Women Lead Call to Boycott: An eruption of formal rebukes followed, including from heads of state and football confederations. Last week, the global outcry hit a crescendo as Europe’s governing body, UEFA, announced they planned to boycott all FIFA competitions if the plan moved forward. In an emergency meeting, UEFA Vice President Laura McAllister, one of two women on the executive committee, was the first to call for a full boycott, while Norwegian Football Federation President Lise Klaveness outlined next steps. As The Athletic wryly observed, the fact that two women led the charge against the “great World Cup sell-off, given how football has historically and systemically kept females at arm’s length” is steeped in irony.

Other Federations Reject Proposal: Following UEFA’s scathing indictment of FIFA’s plans, CONCACAF, which represents North America, Central America and the Caribbean, and the Asian Football Confederation followed with statements of their own condemning the proposal.

The Dominoes Fall: Under a whirlwind of pressure and mounting threats to his re-election, FIFA president Gianni Infantino ultimately reversed course late Friday, announcing the proposal would not move forward.

Ultimately, a boycott would have jeopardized players’ livelihoods and impeded the long-term growth of women’s football. Six of FIFA’s top 10 teams belong to UEFA and wouldn’t have been able to compete, including both the reigning World Champions (Spain) and the current European Champs (England). For more on all of this, check out The Guardian’s piece from over the weekend that unpacks how the women’s game came to be in the crosshairs, why it became a battle for “the soul of football,” and what the fallout could have been.

Sam’s Take 🗣️: One of my biggest takeaways from this whole situation is how powerful collective action can be. For UEFA to pull together all 55 of their member associations and agree to a complete and total boycott is so impressive and an incredible demonstration of unity. Without UEFA's strong stance, who knows what could have happened. Shoutout to the women who led the charge on calling for the boycott and let this serve as a reminder that the power is in the collective. 🤝

More: Emma Hayes champions accessibility and sounds off on UEFA’s boycott of FIFA’s proposal.

⚡ WAFCON: Undefeated Malawi & Nigeria Bounce Back

Egypt 🇪🇬 1-3 Malawi 🇲🇼

At the Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON), debutantes Malawi once again stole the spotlight after collecting a second straight victory in the most difficult group to finish the weekend with two wins in two games. Mere days after stunning 10-time champions Nigeria with a 3-2 upset, Malawi battled to a gritty victory while down a player, after Rose Alufandika received a red card in the 52nd minute for denial of a goal-scoring opportunity.

Kansas City star Temwa Chawinga once again had a standout performance (watch this stunning first touch and assist to teammate Rose Kadzere for the opener). She also put her body on the line with a leaping header past Egyptian goalkeeper Maha Shehata to deliver the team’s third goal.

Nigeria 🇳🇬 1-0 Zambia 🇿🇲

Reigning champions Nigeria secured a pivotal victory vs. the Copper Queens, which keeps their quarter-final dreams alive. The pitch was rife with NWSL players, including Nigerian starters Deborah Abiodun (Washington Spirit) and Michelle Alozie (Chicago) — who was named Player of the Match, as well as Gift Monday (Washington Spirit) off the bench. Meanwhile, Zambia featured the menacing trio of Barbra Banda (Orlando), Racheal Kundananji (Bay FC), and Prisca Chilufya (Angel City) across the front line.

Ultimately, it was Al-Hilal striker and former Bay FC and Barcelona star Asisat Oshoala whose ricocheted rebound in the eighth minute made all the difference. The Super Falcons also demonstrated incredible grace under pressure after Oluwatosin Demehin received a red card in the 40th minute for fouling Banda, and Nigeria managed the win despite being a player down for over half the game.

Mali 🇲🇱 3-2 Cape Verde 🇨🇻

Mali claimed a vital 3-2 win vs. Cape Verde to collect their first points of the tournament with Boston forward Aissata Traoré assisting on two goals to earn Player of the Match. While Cape Verde’s loss may have ended their inaugural tournament run, Eveline Varela made history, scoring her country’s first-ever WAFCON goal, and we know this is just the beginning.

More: Check out this week’s WAFCON schedule and be sure to tune in for Wednesday’s showdown between Group C leaders, Malawi, and regional rivals Zambia with the Chawinga sisters and Barbra Banda facing off (4 p.m. ET).

Plus: Major props to the fan who didn’t hold back with this sign at CPKC Stadium over the weekend. We think the WAFCON players would approve.

🗞️ News & Notes

From Britain to the Bay! According to ESPN, former NWSL Rookie of the Year, Jenna Nighswonger, is set to join Bay FC from Arsenal. 🌉
Apparently RefCam isn’t just for capturing Marta’s priceless expressions. Discover how this tech has helped broadcasts and ref development. 🧐
“Just when I thought I was out, they pull me back in!” After 252 appearances with Seattle, this NWSL legend has rejoined Laura Harvey’s staff as an assistant coach. 💙
Last week, USWNT and Gotham defender Emily Sonnett suffered a ruptured patellar tendon, while Angel City midfielder Jun Endo tore her ACL. That sound you hear? Millions of NWSL fans sobbing/offering up their own knees to the fan favorites. 💔
Long time coming: Coach Marc Skinner left Manchester United this week after disagreeing with ownership over the lack of investment on the women’s side — the same issue that drove his predecessor, current CANWNT manager, Casey Stoney, to depart. 👹
New KIT LAUNCH, same aura: Arsenal’s Olivia Smith goes behind the scenes of the Gunners’ third kit shoot, revealing some familiar faces. 👀

🤔 It’s TWG Trivia Time

This week’s question:

Select your best guess for a chance to win a coveted TWG patch.

Last week’s answer: If you guessed that Morocco’s Ghizlane Chebbak scored five goals to become the top scorer in WAFCON’s last tournament, you were right!

Congrats to Mercedes Carmona, who was the first to respond with the correct answer. Mercedes, your TWG patch is on the way! 💌

🤸 Moment of Joy

Val writes: Hi Sam,

I’m writing to share my discovery of North Carolina’s general coolness. I’m from Massachusetts, and my daughters and I swore a triple pinky promise to be Legacy fans for life if they came back against Denver in May. They did, so we’re passionately committed despite living in Virginia. That said, I recently took my daughter Eden to a Courage match to see her “second favorite player, Marta.” (Her first favorite player is Lynn Biyendolo.) I was absolutely blown away by how awesome the whole thing was.

So here are my questions: We can’t break our promise obviously, but are we doing second favorite teams in the NWSL? And Eden wants to know if she can put Biyendolo on her new Courage jersey even though she plays for Seattle. I told her she could do whatever she wants, but she wants Lynn’s blessing.

Go Boston/Courage?
Val

Sam writes: Hi Val, I’m so glad you and your daughters are fans of both Boston and North Carolina! As a current member of the Legacy Athlete Advisory Board and as a former player who spent many wonderful years with the Courage, I can get behind this multi-fandom no matter what anyone says. (With so many friends and my sister‑in‑law Sam Kerr at Gotham, I’m basically an honorary Bat these days too.)

As for Eden’s jersey, I think it’s a wonderful idea to have Lynn’s name on the back as a tribute to her playing days at the Courage. Thank you for writing in, and I hope to see you all at a Legacy or Courage game sometime soon! 🫶

Love,
Sam

📝 Want to be featured in next week’s TWG newsletter? Send Sam an email! All your questions and comments, can be sent to womensgamemib@meninblazers.com

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Trinity Rodman Heats Up Golden Boot Race 🔥

Sam Mewis — Fri, 31 Jul 2026 09:30:00 +0000

Happy Friday, TWG readers!

It’s almost the weekend! I have plans to play rec kickball, and I’ll be honest with you… I’m so nervous. My biggest fear is everyone being like, “Oh, that’s the soccer player. She’ll be so good.” And then I just proceed to whiff or kick it straight into someone’s hands. The pressure is on, and I tell you, I’m feeling it. I’ll be sure to report back on “Good Vibes” next week! 🤞

I have also been enjoying watching the WAFCON group stage this week. I think I was a little harsh on beIN Sports because my experience streaming games has actually been pretty good. Watching Temwa and Tabitha Chawinga lead Malawi to a huge upset over 10-time WAFCON Champions Nigeria was absolutely incredible. I’ve been loving this tournament and hoping the coverage and excitement around it only continue to grow. 📈

I also got to chat with Denver Summit midfielder Lindsey Heaps earlier this week on an all-new episode of “The Captain.” We discussed her first game with her new club and all the ways she’s adapting to being home again. Make sure to tune in if you missed it! Plus, Washington Spirit midfielder Andi Sullivan joins “Friendlies” this week and, if you haven’t heard her story about how she went through ACL rehab and pregnancy at the same time, you need to! 😳

I’m loving our new cadence of two newsletters per week. This update is such an amazing source of women’s soccer information, and I hope you keep reading to hear the latest news. There’s also a new Mad Libs game, and we’re announcing our first winner below! 🥇

Hope you all have a wonderful weekend! 🫶

Love,
Sam

P.S. From Lioness to the Lady Greyhounds! This England women’s captain served as a consultant on the new se ason of “Ted Lasso.” 📺

📣 TWG HQ Bulletin Board

⚽️ Kansas City Steamrolls, While Spirit & Gotham Triumph

By Laura Swanbeck

This week’s NWSL midweek matches did not disappoint, featuring a dominant Kansas City display, a top-of-the-table clash between Washington and Utah, and a back-and-forth battle between Bay FC and Gotham FC. Read on for all the highlights.

Kansas City Current 🩵 5-1 Racing Louisville 💜

Wednesday featured peak NWSL After Dark with the Current scoring a trio of goals in the first 20 minutes vs. Louisville. Rookie Amelia White got on the scoreboard for the first time, while forward Haley Hopkins and midfield maestro Debinha both earned braces in the blowout. It was a historic evening for Debinha, whose second strike brought her to 82 career NWSL goals across all competitions, tying Lynn Biyendolo for the most in league history. Croix Bethune’s assist to White also broke Kansas City’s single-season assist record. Louisville managed to pull one back with Taylor Flint converting from the spot in the 81st minute, but it was little more than a consolation prize after the hole they’d dug themselves in.

Utah Royals 🦁 0-1 Washington Spirit 💛

The Royals’ stalwart defense went head to head vs. the attacking prowess of the Spirit in a closely-contested match. In a game that marked her 100th regular-season start for the Spirit, Trinity Rodman (who else?) finished a low-driving cross from teammate Paige Metayer for the game winner, her eighth of the season. (The Golden Boot race is heating up!) Despite outshooting Washington 18-6, Utah struggled to find the back of the net for the first time in nine matches.

Bay FC 🌉 0-1 Gotham FC 🦇

The last of the midweek showdowns saw the reigning champions visit Bay FC, sitting 14th in the standings. In a case of déjà vu, right-back Midge Purce struck in less than three minutes, the second straight match she’s opened with an early dagger after doing the same vs. Portland last week. Off a corner from Jaedyn Shaw, midfielder Jaelin Howell rose to redirect her header back across goal, which Purce buried with masterful precision. (Maybe she should play attack or something.) 😉

Bay nearly responded in the eighth minute, with Italian striker Cristiana Girelli and new signing Kennedy Fuller connecting for a superb finish, before the goal was ruled offsides. Despite the 1-0 defeat, Bay celebrated the return of veteran defender Abby Dahlkemper, who returned to play for the first time after giving birth in February.

More: Check out the NWSL table to see where your team stands. 🔎

🗓️ Mark Your Calendar: Three Epic NWSL Weekend Clashes

Heading into Matchweek 15, the NWSL table is tighter than ever with five teams hovering just below the playoff line, all within striking distance of the final spot. Here is one player Sam has an eye on and three match-ups you won’t want to miss:

🔍 Sam’s Scouting Report: Naturally, I’m eager to watch the expansion derby between Boston Legacy and Denver Summit. After speaking with Lindsey this week, I’m going to be keeping an eye on the Summit’s Janine Sonis. She’s been a key leader all season long, helping the new club adjust to the league all while helping her team defensively AND scoring a team-high six goals from the outside back position. Her league experience, veteran leadership, and nose for the goal have her on my radar this weekend.

North Carolina Courage 💙 vs. Orlando 💜 (Friday, 8 p.m. ET, Prime Video)

As the Courage look to welcome Orlando on Marvel Night, they’ll need their spidey senses tuned to the dangers of the Pride’s attack. Coming off the back of three straight losses, North Carolina will be desperate to shore up their defense after conceding nine goals in the last three games. While clutch midfielder Manaka Matsukubo has since departed for Chelsea, North Carolina aren’t the only team missing a key member with Orlando’s Barbra Banda currently away at WAFCON. The real question is which squad has the depth and caliber of players to step up and adjust on the fly.

Washington Spirit 💛 vs. San Diego Wave 🌊 (Sunday, 4 p.m. ET, CBS Sports)

In this coast-to-coast clash, the league leaders will play host to the Wave, who — like North Carolina — are experiencing their own post-break slump. After two frustrating defeats and a draw in the past three games, expect the Wave to go full throttle. They’ll be counting on their youthful contingent to rebound, including rookie Lia Godfrey, Kimmi Ascanio, and Melanie Barcenas — who just became the second youngest player in NWSL history to play 50 regular-season matches. The Spirit, meanwhile, have home advantage and will feel confident after their midweek 1-0 win in which they broke down a stubborn Utah defense.

Denver Summit ⛰️ vs. Boston Legacy 💚 (Sunday, 9 p.m. ET, ESPN)

Lastly, cap off your weekend with the expansion side derby! Back in May, the Legacy’s Aïssata Traoré and Bianca St-Georges struck twice in stoppage time to secure a comeback win and leave Denver reeling. This time, both teams are tied on points and eyeing the playoff line. The Summit will draw strength in front of a home crowd and will face a different Boston side with Traoré away at WAFCON. Additionally, USWNT captain Lindsey Heaps has joined the Summit, and has already forged vital connections as the team’s identity continues to crystallize.

🇲🇼 WAFCON: Malawi & the Chawinga Sisters Make History

In spite of the broadcast hurdles that have plagued this tournament, there has been no shortage of awe-inspiring moments both on the pitch and off — from the fashionable arrivals to the beautiful artwork inspired by the diversity of cultures represented at WAFCON. But nothing topped the midweek shock of debutantes Malawi defeating Nigeria, the reigning champions. We’re breaking down all the action from this game and more:

Nigeria 🇳🇬 2-3 Malawi 🇲🇼

An Underdog’s Triumph: Quite possibly the biggest upset this tournament has ever seen, Nigeria, the highest-ranked African women's national team in the world (No. 36) and heavy favorites, were stunned by Malawi, the lowest seed (No. 153), who are making their inaugural appearance and looking to qualify for their first World Cup.

It’s All in the Family: Malawi broke the deadlock in the 73rd minute when two-time NWSL MVP and Kansas City forward Temwa Chawinga scored her country’s first-ever WAFCON goal, cutting in behind the backline to round the keeper, thanks to Ireen Khumalo’s long-range cross. Not to be upstaged, only six minutes later, her sister Tabitha Chawinga — the Scorchers captain and OL Lyonnes forward — doubled their lead, leaping straight into her sister’s arms to celebrate (we’ve seen this somewhere before).

Super Falcons’ Late Fight: This audacious rampage seemed to shake Nigeria out of their stupor. After a handball occurred in the box, PSG forward Rasheedat Ajibade stepped up and buried a penalty in the 91st minute to keep hope alive. But it was short-lived when Temwa Chawinga completed a brace, chipping goalkeeper Chiamaka Nnadozie who had come off her line. Later, Nigeria’s Uchenna Kanu pulled back another goal, but it was too little too late. Malawi celebrated their historic victory with Temwa earning Player of the Match.

Major Consequences: Nigeria’s opening loss served as a rude awakening for the title holders, who have never conceded three goals in a single WAFCON match before this week or finished outside the top four. The stakes couldn’t be higher as they prepare to face Zambia with both their title defense and World Cup hopes on the line. (Only four WAFCON semifinalists and two quarterfinal playoff contenders have the possibility of qualifying.)

Meanwhile, Malawi will be bolstered by the statement win, which has turned heads in their first campaign. Speaking to ESPN, Temwa Chawinga insisted, “It's true we might be underdogs, but…if we could qualify for this tournament, we can go to the World Cup. We're not just going there to participate. We're going there to compete.”

✨ Other NWSL Stars Shine at WAFCON

On Tuesday, Zambia cruised to a 6-0 win over Egypt with their captain Barbra Banda (Orlando Pride) rattling off a hat trick (including this extraordinary header) in under half an hour. She scored four goals total with her second assisted by Angel City forward Prisca Chilufya. To top off her banner day, she assisted Eneless Phiri in stoppage time and took home Player of the Match. This marks the Copper Queens’ largest victory at WAFCON and will give them a confidence boost vs. Nigeria on Saturday.

Later in the day, Cameroon faced Mali, with the Indomitable Lionesses’ Ngah Manga getting on the scoreboard early. However, Malian and Boston Legacy forward Aïssata Traoré’s darting run behind the backline forced a foul by the goalkeeper Michaely Bihina, which led to the equalizer. The tables turned in the 72nd minute when Manga was also brought down in the box and converted her own penalty to seal a 2-1 win.

Plus: The Super Falcons. The Copper Queens. The Cleopatras. Can you match the nickname with each WAFCON team? 🌍

🕰️ This Week Remembered

The USWNT has staged plenty of comebacks over the years, but when it’s Brazil, it’s special. On July 30, 2017, the U.S. faced the South American side in the Tournament of Nations in San Diego. When a goalkeeper error put the U.S. behind early, our very own Sam Mewis hit a low, hard drive to equalize, only for Brazil to strike twice. Down 3–1 late in the game, the U.S. roared back with three goals in nine minutes, culminating in an 89th-minute winner by Julie Ertz to seal the 4-3 victory. Watch the video above and enjoy the celebrations! 🇺🇲

Sam reminisces: This was a crazy game to be a part of. I scored early in this one… while not my flashiest USWNT goal, it was certainly a reminder that you can’t score if you don’t shoot. This game feels like a classic, and I’m sure we’ll only continue to see U.S. vs. Brazil matchups with this kind of energy. ⚡️

🍿 “Snacks”

Exhale, Chelsea fans. No. 1 goalkeeper Hannah Hampton just signed a new two-year deal, and these crazy stats explain why the Blues need her.
Angel City cameo! This actress and ACFC investor found a way to slip a soccer storyline into her new series “Five-Star Weekend.” 📺
“Campeones, campeones, olé, olé, olé!” Club América defeated Tigres to complete a historic triple. Can you guess the other two trophies they’ve lifted? 🏆
Who needs “Animal Planet” when we can just listen to USWNT goalkeeper Phallon Tullis-Joyce decode wildlife behavior using Bananagrams all day? 🪿
This brings a whole new level to the words “pain cave.” Watch English defender Lucy Bronze reminisce about playing last summer’s Euros on a broken leg. 🦵
In more somber news, FIFA’s private equity proposal for the World Cup has been rejected by UEFA. If it moves forward, they are prepared to boycott, including this fall’s World Cup qualifiers and next summer’s tournament in Brazil (which would sideline six of the top 10 women’s teams). CONCACAF has also voiced its opposition. This story is developing, and Sam will dig into it more next week on “Good Vibes.” 🏟️

🧩 TWG Mad Libs

This week’s phrase: Trying to find a stream of WAFCON is similar to _____.

Email us your funniest ideas and the best response will get a TWG Patch.

Last week’s Mad Libs winner: Congratulations to Ellen Burnes who said Emma Hayes trying to narrow down the USWNT talent pool for the World Cup is like…eating your hotdog on a bun while getting all of the toppings just right….while wearing a white shirt. 😂

Honorable mention goes to Cat Bernard who said it was like asking Erling Haaland to pick his favorite handbag.

Thanks for the laughs! Ellen, send us an email, so we can get your patch in the mail! 💌

🤸 Moments of Joy: WSL Edition

Today, what has brought us joy here at The Women’s Game is the upcoming Women’s Super League (WSL) season, which just announced the 2026-2027 schedule. Kicking off Sept. 4, reigning champions Manchester City will set out to defend their hard-earned title that was a decade in the making.

While WSL fandom at TWG truly runs the gamut (with Arsenal, Chelsea, City, and other supporters in the mix), we are all united by the pure ecstasy and crippling anxiety that comes with being a football fan. Add in the delirium of waking up at ungodly hours to catch matches on London time, and you’ve got the uniquely American WSL experience.

Whether you’re a seasoned supporter or an NWSL fan looking to follow the WSL for the first time this year, we’ve got you covered. In addition to enjoying USWNT staples — Sam Coffey (City), Alyssa Thompson (Chelsea), and Emily Fox (Arsenal) — following the WSL is a great way to familiarize yourself with other internationals before next summer’s World Cup. In the coming weeks, we’ll break down each WSL club and which might fit your vibe. Join us! It’s full of incredible highs and lows, but absolutely worth the ride. 🎢

🙌 If you’re enjoying TWG, we’d love an assist. Forward this email or share this URL with a friend, family member, or fellow football fan.

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A Mind-Blowing Departure for Gotham FC 😭

Megan Swanick — Tue, 28 Jul 2026 09:30:00 +0000

Happy Tuesday, TWG Crew!

We had the dreamiest weather this weekend in Vermont, so I spent almost all of my time outdoors. Pat and I went on a great hike with the dogs, swam in the lake (yes, I risked another bout of swimmer’s itch, but so far so good), and played bocce with friends. I’m trying not to get ahead of myself, but there are only so many perfect summer weekends in a year, and this was definitely one of them. ☀️

I did enjoy watching the Boston Legacy pick up their third win in four games and am so encouraged by their performance since the international break. I was also thrilled to see striker Sam Kerr net her first goal for Gotham, but devastated to see my good friend Emily Sonnett taken off the field injured. Sending her well wishes and hoping for good news. ❤️‍🩹

In today’s episode of “Good Vibes,” I’m chatting with Becky about “The Odyssey,” WAFCON, and Italian international Sofia Cantore’s banger for the Washington Spirit from over the weekend. Tomorrow, USWNT veteran and Colorado native Lindsey Heaps is back with an all-new episode of “The Captain” to discuss her first few games with Denver. And, lastly, Spirit midfielder Andi Sullivan joins “Friendlies” on Thursday to share more about her return to play after both giving birth and tearing her ACL. It’s quite the story! 🎙️

Thanks for being part of this incredible community. 🫶

Love,
Sam

P.S. Jimothy has some competition. Is this Kansas City Current’s newest mascot? 🦝

📢 TWG HQ Bulletin Board

GET THE CHAMPS TEE

🤩 NWSL: Spirit Pulls Ahead and Sam Kerr Gets on the Scoreboard

This weekend, the Washington Spirit defended their lead at the top of the table with a 1-0 win against Denver, featuring a wonderful team build-up and assist from Trinity Rodman to Italian forward Sofia Cantore, who curled home her fourth goal of the season in stunning fashion. (Rodman and her USWNT teammate Lindsey Heaps also had fun riling each other up).

At the other end of the table, 15th-place Chicago fell to Orlando 1-0, but goalkeeper Katie Atkinson had herself a game with 10 saves—also becoming just the second NWSL keeper to stop a penalty kick from Marta. Sitting in 16th, Racing Louisville marked their first NWSL win since May, defeating Angel City 2-1 away from home with rookie Maja Lardner netting her first goal and first brace. ACFC attacker Sveindís Jónsdóttir pulled one back in the 80th minute, but her team’s late push fell short, and they were unable to complete the comeback.

Ultimately, the weekend was dominated by major headlines, including a new star signing’s first goal for Gotham, a poignant return for a Portland favorite, and a USWNT goalkeeper reasserting herself after returning from injury. Here are the highlights from three of the weekend’s top matches:

Portland Thorns 🌹2-2 Gotham FC 🦇

On Friday, Gotham wasted no time showcasing how dangerous they can be in front of goal, with forward Midge Purce opening the scoring in the second minute—guiding a brilliant one‑touch volley into the back of the net off of a perfectly-weighted cross by Guro Reiten. In the 11th minute, Gotham and USWNT defender Emily Sonnett was sadly stretchered off the field with a non-contact knee injury and given a standing ovation from the home crowd.

Portland responded to the goal with a flurry of chances, which not even Ann Katrin-Berger could save, with rookie Renee Lyles and Thorns captain Jessie Fleming both getting on the board. However, Portland’s lead was brief with Gotham’s star striker Sam Kerr earning her first start and delivering the equalizer off a rebound from a corner—marking her first goal since returning to the NWSL.

Lifting everyone’s spirits at Providence Park was the long-awaited return of Portland winger Morgan Weaver, who subbed on in the 76th minute, making her first appearance since Nov. 2024, following a knee injury, multiple surgeries, and doctors telling her she may never play soccer again.

North Carolina Courage 💙 1-4 Utah Royals 🦁

Defenders also stole the spotlight this weekend with Royals center-back and recent TWG “Friendlies” guest Kate Del Fava celebrating her first goal of the year—a back-post header off a corner. Then, fellow defender Tatumn Milazzo followed suit, firing one home in the 34th minute. Their Utah teammates, Mina Tanaka and Cloé Lacasse, also got on the scoreboard in the second half to set a new club record for the most goals scored in a single game.

Sam’s Take 🗣️: The Royals also boasted four different scorers in this game, which showcases their variability of attack even more. Speaking with Kate last week, I was really struck by the way she spoke of Utah's team-first mentality. She said they know they will always need all 11 players on the field to win a game. When you watch them, you can really see that togetherness, and it's bringing them success this season. 📈

San Diego Wave 🌊 0-2 Seattle Reign 👸

After missing multiple games with an ankle injury, USWNT goalkeeper Claudia Dickey returned to Seattle’s starting XI and instantly reminded viewers of her elite shot-stopping skills, delivering a career high of nine saves in the Reign’s shutout over the Wave.

At the other end of the pitch, forward Maddie Mercado and 19-year-old center-back Jordyn Bugg (who USWNT coach Emma Hayes flagged as a future talent with huge potential) scored goals three minutes apart to seal the win. Both were set up by Ainsley McCammon, who became the youngest player in NWSL history to contribute multiple assists in one game, surpassing Trinity Rodman’s previous record.

Milestones were achieved on and off the pitch with Laura Harvey—Seattle’s cooler-queen coach—also celebrating becoming the first manager in NWSL history to reach 100 regular-season wins with the same club.

Meanwhile, San Diego’s struggles deepened, continuing their further slide down the standings, following last week’s draw with Kansas City and their defeat to SoCal rivals, Angel City (which they lost in a similar fashion with two goals in quick succession). Catarina Macario’s return can’t come soon enough for the Wave.

Check out the full NWSL weekend results. 😍

👀 Midweek NWSL Action You Won’t Want to Miss

As if we could wait all the way to the weekend! Tomorrow delivers a trio of exciting clashes to make your week just a little bit brighter:

KC Current 🩵 vs. Racing Louisville 💜 (TOMORROW, 8 p.m. ET, CBS Sports)

After their gritty 2-1 victory over eighth-place Angel City, Louisville will aim for their fourth win of the year against Kansas City while playing at CPKC Stadium, where the Current haven’t lost all season (they’ll be bolstered with the return of midfielder Taylor Flint following a one-game suspension). Kansas City will look to recover from a 1-0 loss to Boston over the weekend with the home stadium advantage behind them, though their top scorer, Temwa Chawinga, is still away on international duty.

Utah Royals 🦁 vs. Washington Spirit 💛 (TOMORROW, 9 p.m. ET, NWSL+)

Third-place Utah then host the current league leaders to test the Royals’ strong defensive record and historically impressive season. Arriving with four wins in four games (their only defeat since the international break came during the Queens Classic), the Spirit are also the first NWSL club to hit 10 victories this season. Utah, meanwhile, could secure their own 10th win at home with goalkeeper Mandy McGlynn poised to make history (her next shutout will set a new club record, surpassing Nicole Barnhart’s 13 clean sheets in the Royals’ 2018–2019 campaign).

Bay FC 🌉 vs. Gotham FC 🦇 (TOMORROW, 10 p.m. ET, CBS Sports)

Finally, Gotham continues its West Coast tour with a visit to San Jose, squaring up against 14th-place Bay FC. Despite their spot in the standings, the NorCal side, bolstered by a talented, young roster, has had a strong run of results since the international break, with two wins, one draw and a 1-0 loss to Houston this past weekend. It will also be an epic midfield battle with Bay FC’s Claire Hutton facing off against her USWNT teammates Jaedyn Shaw and Rose Lavelle, who has scored in the teams’ last two meetings.

🔥 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations: Drama On & Off the Pitch

WAFCON 2026 is officially underway! On Sunday, the tournament launched with back-to-back games in Rabat, Morocco, with goals from debutants and veterans alike. Read on for all the action so far and what’s coming up later today:

Algeria 🇩🇿 2-0 Senegal 🇸🇳

After achieving a best-ever quarterfinal finish in 2024, Algeria started the tournament strong. Les Fennecs’ captain Marine Dafeur opened the scoring just before the half, with a confident left-footed strike from the penalty spot to mark the opening goal of the tournament. Then, in the 88th minute (and just three days after signing for the Washington Spirit), 20-year-old French-born forward Mélissa Bethi seized her moment. After a poor defensive clearance from Senegal, she pounced on the ball in the box, coolly slotting it home to give her side a vital insurance goal and gather all three points.

Morocco 🇲🇦 4-0 Kenya 🇰🇪

In front of a robust home crowd, the Atlas Lionesses wasted no time with a decisive win against Kenya, the lowest-ranked team in their Group A campaign. Ibtissam Jraïdi, who captains Al Ahli in the Saudi Women’s Premier League, scored a brace (capped off by this glorious headed goal in the 47th minute) in a 4-0 victory that featured three goals in the first half. Jraïdi continues to make history for the host nation after becoming the first Moroccan and first Arab women’s football player to score at the World Cup in 2023, and the team’s second-highest scorer in their second-place WAFCON finish in 2024.

Day Two Results 🇿🇦 🇹🇿 🇨🇮 🇧🇫

WAFCON’s second day saw an upset with the 2022 WAFCON champions South Africa falling to Tanzania 2-1 in their opening match, despite outshooting them 23 to 10 with 64% of possession. Meanwhile, Ivory Coast dominated Burkina Faso in a 4-1 win. Twenty-four-year-old Inès Konan scored twice with Washington Spirit forward Rosemonde Kouassi setting up her first goal in the 12th minute.

Today’s Tough Tests ⚔️

The group stage continues today with a plethora of NWSL powerhouses in Group C. First, Zambia takes on Egypt (1 p.m. ET) in a match likely to feature NWSL current top scorer, Barbra Banda (Orlando Pride), as well as electric forward Racheal Kundananji (Bay FC) representing the Copper Queens. 🇿🇲 🇪🇬

Later in the day, the 10-time WAFCON champions, Nigeria’s Super Falcons, play debutantes Malawi (4 p.m. ET, BeIN Sports). Chicago Stars veteran defender Michelle Alozie and Washington Spirit forward Gift Monday could feature for the defending champions, with two-time NWSL MVP and Kansas City striker Temwa Chawinga on the opposing side, seeking to upset the reigning champions. 🇳🇬 🇲🇼

Frustration Mounts Over Access 😤

After WAFCON was postponed in March, 12 days before it was set to begin, disappointment with the Confederation of African Football (CAF) has only grown. The start of Africa’s most prestigious women’s football tournament has now been marred by broadcasting hurdles that have kept fans in certain locations from enjoying the opening games. We hope that the tournament’s organizers will make the matches more readily accessible to fans around the world, who time and again have proven that, if given the opportunity, they will show up to support.

Sam’s Take 🗣️: It's really frustrating and hugely unfair to these players that WAFCON faces such turmoil when it comes to both scheduling and broadcasting. Kansas City’s Temwa Chawinga could miss up to five out of 30 NWSL games due to the rescheduling of this tournament. Imagine the impact that could have on her ability to both help her team win and also secure the Golden Boot or MVP on an individual level. In terms of broadcast availability, the WAFCON tournament is on par with the Euros and the Asian Cup, both of which we were able to watch here in the U.S. It's really tough to see these players face less-than-ideal conditions, and I want better for them. 🙏

🗞️ News & Notes

The 2027 Women’s World Cup final is less than a year away. These five factors could determine if the USWNT makes it.
Talk about star power! Gotham’s stacked lineup is no accident. Learn the clever ways in which the Bats have navigated the NWSL salary cap.
Your favorite player’s favorite player. Find out the leader this frontrunner for the NWSL Golden Boot credits with transforming her game.
Europe really is just one giant chess board to Michele Kang. After trading one of her veteran players to another of her clubs, she has also enlisted this Champions League winner to join her empire.
In shocking news, Gotham’s all-time leading scorer, Esther González, and the club have mutually agreed to part ways as she “temporarily steps away from soccer to attend to personal matters in Spain.” Take a look at some of her best moments with the Bats.

🤔 It’s TWG Trivia Time

This week’s question:

Select an answer for a chance to win a coveted TWG patch. 💌

🤸 Moment of Joy

Brendan writes: Hi Sam, Lynn, and Becky, With Alexia Putellas moving to the WSL, I was looking at the London City Lionesses' roster and was struck by the diversity of countries represented. It made me wonder about the communication at these clubs with international diversity (I remember Amandine Henry coming to the Thorns in 2016 and being a little surprised at how little English she spoke).

Do you have experience with teammates who did not speak English well? And, could you speak to how this tends to affect communication on the field and in practice and how you work around that? Thank you, and to quote Katie Nolan on “Casuals”: love you, mean it!

A Loyal Hot Dog,
Brendan Darsie

Sam writes: Hi Brendan, Love this question! One of the joys of soccer is how it immerses you in different cultures, whether you’re traveling internationally or helping a teammate settle into a new language and home. I was very lucky to play alongside Brazilian midfielder Debinha for several years at the Courage, and while she spoke English, I found that over time she trusted us even more to speak up and share her ideas. Whenever there was something we had to work through, we could use a translator app or ask another teammate to help. Between sharing football ideas or even just having a meal together, I found that language barriers can be broken down quite easily.

It also makes a difference when you share the pitch with multilingual athletes like San Diego Wave co-captain Kenza Dali, who has spoken recently about switching between French, English and Spanish to communicate with her team. I’m sure that will be the case at London City with Putellas’ Spanish teammates, who’ve already arrived, helping her transition both on and off the pitch. Thanks for writing in! <3

Love,
Sam

📝 Want to be featured in next week’s TWG newsletter? Send Sam an email! All your questions, comments, and roast chicken recipes can be sent to womensgamemib@meninblazers.com

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🌍 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations: Can Nigeria Defend Their Title?

Sam Mewis — Fri, 24 Jul 2026 09:30:00 +0000

Happy Friday, Friends!

Welcome to our first-ever Friday newsletter, courtesy of our incredible newsletter writer and editor, Laura Swanbeck, here at TWG. Now that we’re in full Women’s World Cup mode, there is just too much to fit into one newsletter, and I’m so happy that we have this opportunity to expand to twice a week. 🎉

Below you’ll find your weekend preview of must-watch games (and any midweek matches, so you can stay in the loop.) In “This Week Remembered,” we’ll highlight one amazing goal, save or moment worth reliving. We’ll also have fun, bite-sized news that we’re “snacking on” (IYKYK), plus a Mad Libs challenge with a prize for the response that makes me laugh the most (this week’s is on Emma Hayes’ unenviable job of narrowing down the USWNT roster). And lastly, we’ll wrap with “Moments of Joy” from off the pitch that made a real impact. ✨

Looking ahead to this weekend, I’m excited for both the football (Portland vs. Gotham tonight, anyone?) and some time to relax after a busy week. Pat and I are planning on going for a hike and enjoying some sunny Vermont weather. We’ve been playing whiffle ball in our backyard a lot this summer, and I am actually getting way better at hitting. Stay tuned for proof! 😎

I hope you’ve enjoyed the podcasts we’ve launched this week. Recording the 100th episode of “Good Vibes” was such a joy, and I’m so honored to work with Becky and Lynn, who are always so insightful and make me laugh whenever we’re together. Don’t miss “Mewis Squared,” which drops today, in which Kristie and I dive into our recent visit in New Jersey. We’ll be back on the mic together for another episode soon, so I’d love for you to submit any questions you have for us to womensgamemib@meninblazers.com. ✍️

See you all next week!

Love,
Sam

P.S. This may be the most iconic World Cup party ever! Megan Rapinoe rubbed shoulders with Serena Williams, Dua Lipa and other surprise guests. 🤩

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🗓️ NWSL: Three Must-Watch Matches

Portland attacker Morgan Weaver goes up against Gotham defender Bruninha

By Laura Swanbeck

Heading into the weekend, the Spirit are on top thanks to T R Squared, KC Current holding San Diego to a draw last week and perhaps a little luck from Jose the Coyote. Here’s one player you should have your eye on and three games you won’t want to miss!

🔍 Sam’s Scouting Report: I may have some sister-in-law bias, but I'm watching Sam Kerr this weekend. She has subbed on for Gotham in both of her appearances since returning to the NWSL and has looked so dangerous in the box. I can't wait for her to get that first goal and open the flood gates. I'm betting it's a header against Portland tonight.

Portland Thorns🌹vs. Gotham FC 🦇 (Friday, 10 p.m. ET, Prime Video)

On Friday, Gotham, sitting in second, visit fourth-place Portland, to jockey for three points. Traveling to Providence Park to play the Thorns, who haven’t lost a single home game all season, may seem daunting. However, Gotham arrive on a three-game win streak, having just signed star striker Sam Kerr (whose first goal seems like only a matter of time), and with Rose Lavelle in red-hot form. The Thorns, meanwhile, will look to clip the Bats’ wings with a formidable attack led by USWNT star Sophia Wilson and young forward Pietra Tordin, who just committed her future to the club. Plus, attacker Morgan Weaver will be back in the squad after a knee injury and is set for her first appearance since Nov. 2024. Gotham will also have reinforcements of their own after signing Denise O’Sullivan, who incidentally won her first NWSL Championship in 2018 with Sam at where else, but Providence Park.

Boston 💚 vs. KC Current 🩵 (Saturday, 5:00 p.m. ET, ION)

Then, on Saturday, it’s over to the East Coast where Boston hosts Kansas City in Pawtucket. Can “Teal Rise” or will Boston have their revenge from a narrow 1-0 defeat to the Current back in May? While last weekend the Legacy fell to the Washington Spirit 2-1, with Hanson, Mass. native Sammy Smith scoring the lone goal, it was nearly a draw and showed some promising fight from the expansion side who struggled earlier in the season. However, it will be a tall task to beat Kansas City with midfield dynamo Croix Bethune in terrific form, smashing a volley past San Diego last weekend and assisting teammate Temwa Chawinga for the second goal of the game.

Both squads will be without key players who have joined up with their national teams for the Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON). The Legacy will be missing Mali forward Aïssata Traoré (tied with Amanda Gutierres for the most club goals this season), while the Current will have massive shoes to fill upfront with striker Temwa Chawinga set to make her WAFCON debut for Malawi.

Washington Spirit 💛 vs. Denver Summit ⛰️ (Sunday, 7 p.m. ET, Victory+)

To cap off your NWSL weekend, head to Rowdy Audi where the Spirit will take on the Summit. Washington may sit atop the table but will no doubt remember the scoreless draw from when these two sides met back in March. Denver also now has USWNT captain Lindsey Heaps, who is already orchestrating attacks and nearly bagged a goal herself last weekend. We really thought this was in too!

On paper, the Spirit may be the favorites, yet Denver, led by co-captain Janine Sonis, have grown into the season. Plus, Washington’s ranks have been depleted more than any other NWSL team with five players on their way to WAFCON, including Rosemonde Kouassi and Gift Monday. Can the Summit use that underdog mentality to win away from home, or will star Trinity Rodman, midfield maestro Leicy Santos, and the Italian contingent, including Sofia Cantore, carry the Spirit across the line?

More: Continuing the disturbing trend of rampant knee injuries in women’s football, both Chicago Stars striker Jordyn Huitema and San Diego center back Trinity Armstrong announced this week that they have torn their ACLs. They have been added to the season-ending injury list and will undergo further treatment. Back in April, the NWSL and NWSLPA teamed up with Project ACL on a multi‑year initiative to work toward curtailing these devastating injuries. Hopefully we start to see a reduction soon. ❤️‍🩹

🌍 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations: Can Nigeria Defend Their Title?

Nigeria and Chicago Stars’ Michelle Alozie celebrates winning the 2025 WAFCON Tournament

This summer, Nigeria set their sights on back-to-back WAFCON trophies, chasing a record-extending 11th title as the tournament kicks off in Morocco. Among the Super Falcons’ ranks are a few familiar faces: Chicago Stars defender Michelle Alozie and Washington Spirit attacker Gift Monday. This is also a squad that nearly took down FIFA’s No. 4-ranked England in the 2023 World Cup over the course of 120 grueling minutes of play (only Chloe Kelly on penalties could stop them).

But Nigeria will have plenty of competition for WAFCON glory with the Atlas Lionesses—their Moroccan hosts and the 2025 runner-up—looking to block their path to the promised land. In last year’s epic final, the Super Falcons came back from two goals down with Jennifer Echegini breaking the stalemate and scoring in the 88th minute to secure the 3-2 victory. Alongside Nigeria, Zambia are also in Group C and looking to make a statement this summer. They’re captained by Orlando Pride star striker Barbra Banda, who currently leads the NWSL Golden Boot race. If the reigning title holders progress out of the group, they could also face South Africa—the only other nation to have ever won WAFCON. Or a wildcard team of outsiders could derail their title defense, like debutantes Malawi, whose team includes the fast-paced and clinical Chawinga sisters, or Cape Verde—the small island nation whose men’s side impressed at the 2026 World Cup, capturing hearts around the world.

The opening-day matches kick off this Sunday in the Moroccan capital of Rabat:

Algeria vs. Senegal — 1 p.m. ET
Morocco vs. Kenya — 4 p.m. ET

Of the 16 teams, the top two in each of the four groups will advance to the quarterfinals before culminating in the final showdown on Aug. 16. This year’s prize money has also doubled to $2 million for the ultimate winner.

Ten NWSL players will feature at this year’s tournament, but even more African talent will be on display. It’s an incredible opportunity to truly witness the best in African football, especially ahead of next summer’s World Cup. Learn how to watch.

Explore: Here are 11 standout players you should know in the tournament. 👀

More: At the 2026 WAFCON, only four of 16 head coaches are women. Discover how female managers are working to increase representation. 👩‍🏫

🕰️ This Week Remembered

“Because maybe, you’re gonna be the one that saves me.” 🎶

Not just an Oasis lyric or a rallying cry for the Three Lions this summer, but the actual embodiment of British teenage football phenom Michelle Agyemang. Just over a year ago, she buried a stoppage-time strike in the Euros semifinal vs. Italy to keep England alive (click the video above to watch). The Lionesses would breathe a deep sigh of relief and go on to win their second straight Euros final.

🍿 “Snacks”

Since the first edition of the Women’s World Cup, only seven nations have played in every single tournament. Can you guess them all?
Kit launch alert! Check out USWNT players Alyssa Thompson and Naomi Girma debuting Chelsea’s new look with unparalleled style.
An NWSL star was tapped to speak at the TIME100 Sports Gala… between a prince and a basketball powerhouse. And, yes, she brought receipts.
Unleash the dragons! This week, Wrexham took Europe by storm with a historic first victory in the Women’s Champions League.
“It is infectious to play a character who sees the best in people and isn’t mad at the world for all its foibles.” T-minus 12 days until “Ted Lasso” returns with a women’s team front and center.
From TWG host to the hot seat! Hear Sam talk to U.S. Soccer about her playing days, her move to Vermont and the Women’s World Cup.

🧩 TWG Mad Libs

This week’s phrase: Emma Hayes trying to narrow down the USWNT talent pool for the Women’s World Cup is like ________________________.

Email us your funniest ideas. Best answer that makes Sam laugh the hardest gets a coveted TWG Patch.

Tuesday’s trivia winner: Congratulations to Alexia Whitney, who was the first to correctly answer that Lindsey Heaps won an NWSL Championship, scoring the game winner and securing the MVP trophy in 2017. Alexia, send us an email and we’ll get your patch in the mail! 📬

🤸 Moments of Joy

The Summer of Soccer has been packed with so many unforgettable moments on the field. But we also love the quieter, off‑the‑pitch stories—players, coaches and others who are tirelessly working to contribute on their own terms and reshape the women’s game in their own ways. Here are a few gems that stood out this week:

Always Keep Learning: USWNT Coach Emma Hayes has been busy, covering the World Cup as an ITVS pundit and penning op-eds like this one on the deep-rooted culture within the Spanish national team who triumphed in the final. Is there anything she can’t do? She’ll also be using her tactical learnings and observations to inform her own prep for next summer’s World Cup.

Turning Pain Into Empowerment: When she’s not holding down the USWNT and Gotham backline, defender Tierna Davidson, who has suffered two torn ACLs in her career, has created The Power Lab to host injury‑prevention workshops for young athletes. Truly an inspiration for us all.

Ella Toone to the Rescue: Marrying the love of your life, receiving an MBE… and saving a historic women’s football club with a partnership through her ET7 Academy and creative agency Amicizia Studios—the Manchester United midfielder truly is having the most incredible summer.

📝 Want to be featured in next week’s TWG newsletter? Send Sam an email! All your questions and comments can be sent to womensgamemib@meninblazers.com

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USWNT’s Lindsey Heaps Debuts in Denver ⛰️

Megan Swanick — Tue, 21 Jul 2026 10:00:00 +0000

Happy Tuesday, TWG readers!

This community we’ve built together at TWG is so incredibly special to me. Since launching two-and-a-half years ago, we have only grown, and writing to you each week remains one of my favorite rituals. I love sharing what I was up to over the weekend and all the amazing TWG content we have in the works. But a newsletter can only hold so much and, with one eye on the Women’s World Cup (just 337 days away!), it’s time to expand. 💗

I’m excited to let you know that you can now expect to hear from TWG twice a week as we gear up for next summer’s tournament: one newsletter to recap the weekend’s highlights, and another to cover midweek matches, breaking news, and what’s next in women’s football. As we expand to two newsletters a week, I would love it if you could take 10 seconds to fill out the poll below to tell us when you’d like to hear from us again: Thursday or Friday. Thank you! 🗞️

We’re also launching plenty of podcasts this week. We’re celebrating our 100th episode of “Good Vibes”—dropping Wednesday so that BOTH Becky and Lynn can join in on the fun. Then Thursday on “Friendlies,” we’ll welcome Utah Royals defender and Iron Woman, Kate Del Fava, who’s having a standout season. And, finally, on Friday we’ve got an all-new episode of “Mewis Squared” detailing Kristie’s move to New Jersey, and our time together last week. 🎙️

As The Women’s Game ramps up, I can’t believe the men’s World Cup is over. A huge congratulations to Spain, who really grew into the tournament and deserved to win the final. I loved watching the games, but can’t wait for the Women’s World Cup, which is right around the corner! I’d love to hear what you’re most excited about when it comes to next summer, so send us an email at womensgamemib@meninblazers.com and let me know. 💌

Thank you!

Love,
Sam

P.S. From Alex Morgan to Emma Hayes, women football icons showed up and showed out at the 2026 World Cup final. 🌟

P.P.S. Can you guess how Spain’s men’s World Cup win this year is historic for women’s football too? 🏆

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📈 Queens Classic Shatters NYC Attendance Record

Sam Kerr makes her NWSL return at the Queens Classic

One week after Gotham unveiled plans for a new home stadium, the reigning NWSL champs clinched a 1-0 victory vs. the Washington Spirit in front of a sold-out crowd of 42,175 fans at Citi Field. The Queens Classic is now the highest-attended women’s sporting event ever in New York City and the second-highest NWSL match (after the Denver home opener).

In a fairly tight match-up, Gotham’s Rose Lavelle brought her trademark flare, getting onto the scoreboard in the 37th minute. After her teammate Jaelin Howell’s relentless pressure forced a turnover, she scooped up the ball, nutmegged her defender and delivered a clever left-footed chip that soared over goalkeeper Sandy MacIver into the side netting. One flash of Lavelle magic, and Gotham had its winner.

While this moment marked the first NWSL goal ever scored in New York City, the excitement was only getting started. In the 64th minute, the Bats’ newly-signed striker Sam Kerr made her long-awaited debut after seven years in Europe, immediately looking dangerous on the ball. Hear what Lavelle had to say about having the opportunity to link up with the former Chelsea star.

Earlier in the day, TWG’s very own Sam Mewis hosted Footy Fest (with her Rose and Wilma bobblehead always within arm’s reach) and, alongside Kristie, cheered on Kerr as she made her NWSL return. The only drawback on the day was the smoke from Canadian wildfires, which resulted in an air‑quality advisory and four mandated water breaks. After the match, USWNT star Trinity Rodman didn’t mince words, acknowledging the massive undertaking behind the event, but adding, “If we have to have a hydration break every 15 minutes, then we shouldn’t be playing the game, and that’s my opinion.”

🤩 NWSL’s New Arrivals & Historic Comebacks

Gotham celebrates Rose Lavelle’s late game-winning goal vs. Seattle

While Sam Kerr’s midweek entry into the NWSL offered a tantalizing prelude, the weekend delivered plenty of debuts for new signings—including Lindsey Heaps, Denise O’Sullivan and Leila Ouahabi. It also featured Washington Spirit snagging the top spot in the standings, Gotham making a record-breaking comeback, a pair of Coloradans returning home, and the sweetest Angel City baby stealing the spotlight. Read on for more!

Kansas City Current 🩵 2-2 San Diego Wave 🌊

Friday night at CPKC Stadium, the Current, sitting in sixth place, kept their 24-game undefeated home streak intact after a hard-fought draw against second-place San Diego. Forward Temwa Chawinga notched her ninth goal of 2026, while midfielder Croix Bethune’s assist tally remained as hot as the Current’s home form. San Diego’s Trinity Byars’ sixth-minute strike put the Wave on the front foot, but Bethune’s one-touch, left-footed volley (definitely in the running for best goal and celebration of the weekend!) provided the equalizer in the second half. Shortly after, Bethune threaded a beautiful through-ball to Chawinga, whose clinical finish gave the hosts a temporary lead. But San Diego had the last word, with Byars completing her 90th-minute brace and snatching a point at the death.

Denver Summit 🏔️ 2-1 Portland Thorns 🌹

Meanwhile, the Summit’s Saturday win over three-time NWSL champions Portland was historical on multiple fronts. It began with an emotional return: USWNT Captain, former OL Lyonnes midfielder, and homegrown Coloradan Lindsey Heaps made her first NWSL appearance since 2021, while wearing the captain’s armband in front of a sold-out crowd and playing against her former club.

No surprise for USWNT fans: Heaps dominated in the air (she became only the second player this year to clock a 100% record for aerial duels won), and capped it with a game-winning assist. Portland struck first with USWNT striker Sophia Wilson—in her first NWSL match in her home state—converting from the penalty spot. However, the Summit showed their indomitable spirit, with the team’s co-captain and top scorer Janine Sonis notching her sixth goal of the year for the equalizer, and rookie Natalie Means scoring her first NWSL goal to secure Denver’s fifth win of the season.

Sam’s Take 🗣️: I was so thrilled to see Lindsey return to playing in the NWSL. It was crazy that her first game back was against her former club, the Portland Thorns. Seeing her help Denver pull out the win just felt right, and I can't wait to hear all about it on the next episode of “The Captain”!

Gotham 🦇 3-2 Seattle 👑

To cap off an already-historic week, Gotham engineered an extraordinary comeback vs. Seattle with a brace from Esther González, officially pushing the Spanish striker ahead of Sam Kerr by two goals (30) for Gotham’s regular-season scoring record. In the 78th minute, two-time NWSL champion and Irish midfielder Denise O’Sullivan made her club debut after signing on loan from Liverpool. And talk about coming in clutch! Mere days after scoring the Queens Classic match winner, Rose Lavelle launched an audacious left-footed strike in stoppage time to mark her fourth tally of the year (cue the celebratory dogpile).

And with that last-gasp victory, Gotham became the first NWSL team to win a match despite trailing by multiple goals in the 80th minute or later.

Sam’s Take 🗣️: As if Gotham didn't have enough to celebrate last week, this comeback was one for the ages. The number of chances they created at the end of this game was insane. It feels like Gotham has 15 starters on their team! With manager Juan Carlos Amorós heading out on parental leave (making this important speech about sharing childcare responsibility), I'm eager to see if they can maintain this form AND keep everyone happy.

Chicago Stars ⭐️ vs. Angel City 🪽

Angel City also secured their second three-game-winning streak of the season, with a 2-0 victory over Chicago that featured the fifth game in a row in which midfielder Maiara Niehues has scored (the longest streak in Angel City history). ACFC winger and new mom Claire Emslie also made her first start since returning from maternity leave, sharing a sweet moment with her son Jamie during the post-match broadcast. For the Stars, USWNT forward Mallory Swanson made her 100th regular-season start and recently-signed Spanish defender, Leila Ouahabi, marked her first appearance after joining from Manchester City.

🌍 The Road to Brazil Runs Through WAFCON

Nigeria's Rinsola Babajide after winning the 2025 Women's Africa Cup of Nations final vs. Morocco

The 14th Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) gets underway this Sunday in Morocco and runs through August 16. Much is at stake with WAFCON serving as an official World Cup-qualifying tournament for the Confederation of African Football (CAF). With 16 teams competing in four groups of four, the semi-finalists will each automatically secure a spot in the 2027 Women’s World Cup in Brazil. The four quarter-finalists that don’t progress will face off against each other to determine CAF’s two intercontinental playoff competitors for the World Cup.

NWSL talent will be on full display with several star players featuring, including two prominent members of Zambia’s Copper Queens: former NWSL Championship MVP and Africa Women’s Player of the Year, Barbra Banda, as well as Bay FC forward Racheal Kundananji (both players scored three goals in Zambia’s quarter-final finish in 2024).

Nigeria’s Super Falcons, who are 10-time champions and the reigning WAFCON winners, also have NWSL players in their squad, including Washington Spirit forward Gift Monday and Chicago defender Michelle Alozie. The Spirit’s Rosemonde Kouassi will also represent her home nation, Ivory Coast.

Meanwhile, Kansas City Current star striker Temwa Chawinga, who is tied for second in the NWSL Golden Boot race, will represent Malawi in her first-ever WAFCON, alongside her sister, OL Lyonnes forward Tabitha Chawinga (yet another formidable sister duo that should be on your radar).

Facing widespread criticism after being delayed from its original March dates, the tournament will take place over the next month, leaving NWSL sides navigating several weeks without some of their top scorers. However, it also provides an opportunity for teams to build on their depth of talent, develop squad players and push for results while missing key starters.

📺 Check out the full schedule and how to watch!

🗞️ News & Notes

This summer’s World Cup could inspire young girls to chase their dreams of working in football. Watch a visibly moved Rebecca Lowe imagine them following in her footsteps. And then check out our full interview with her on “Teaming Up.”
Melvine Malard is a Blue! The former Manchester United forward reunites with her old manager Sonia Bompastor at Chelsea for a deal worth $1.1 million, a club-record fee for the Red Devils to recoup.
No headphones, no problem. You’ve got to hear Rose Lavelle serenade Megan Rapinoe with this Shakira classic.
Meet the designer who’s taken the NWSL by storm, channeling her understanding of local communities into fashion that speaks volumes.
Not simply “fam.” J.J. Watt made sure to call out an MLS team that overlooked the achievements of his wife – former NWSL and USWNT pro, Kealia Watt. To their credit, the club quickly issued an apology and owned the mistake.

🤔 It’s TWG Trivia Time

This week’s question:

Choose your answer for a chance to win a coveted TWG patch.

Last week’s answer: Sam Kerr last played for the NWSL in 2019. Who did she score her final goal against? The correct answer is the Portland Thorns.

Congrats to mhamm@msu.edu (also, great email address!) for being the first person to answer. Send us an email and we'll get you a patch! 💌

🤸 Moment of Joy

Jess writes: Hi Sam, This year my friend and I got season tickets to our local USL W League club Salmon Bay FC (Go Fish!) here in Seattle. The atmosphere reminds me of my high school soccer days when the whole community turned out to support its players and I really love all the little traditions the club has created.

For example, when our home team scores they toss cheeseburgers into the stands. At halftime, spectators go down to the field and compete in a series of tasks such as trying to dribble a soccer ball through cones while carrying ~7 pizza boxes. There's even a contingent of supporters who make their way through foliage and cheer from the bushes (they even got their own official banner this year). It's an absolute blast!

This Saturday, July 18th, Seattle is hosting the USL W final right here at home against none other than the Vermont Green. Since you coached there previously, I'm curious what the games are like on the other side of the country. Does Vermont have local traditions to help pump up the crowd during games? And if not, is there anything you'd propose starting?

Best,
Jess

Sam writes: Hi Jess, congrats on Salmon Bay’s big win in the final! It was a tough loss for my Vermont Green, but I’m so proud of the fight they showed in the dying minutes of the match to go for the equalizer and how far they’ve come in their inaugural USL W League season. However, when penalties are involved, all bets are off. I’m sure the atmosphere was incredible, and I was so sorry to miss it.

Also your club’s homegrown traditions sound delightful and hilarious, and I am here for it all. Love the idea of cheeseburgers (or perhaps hot dogs 🤔) sailing into the stands for fans to enjoy. At Vermont Green, we lean into our environmental mission, deep community ties, and, of course, free Ben & Jerry’s ice cream—so very Vermont. Fans are encouraged to bike or take public transit to matches, and each game spotlights a local nonprofit. There is also a chant that involves taking your shoe off and waving it above your head… my personal favorite. Moving to this state and finding a club and community that balances the sport I love with values I care about has brought me so much joy. Thanks for writing in and supporting your local team! <3

Love,
Sam

📝 Want to be featured in next week’s TWG newsletter? Send Sam an email! All your questions and comments can be sent to womensgamemib@meninblazers.com

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A colossal USWNT vs. Spain showdown 🇺🇸

Megan Swanick — Tue, 14 Jul 2026 10:00:00 +0000

Happy Tuesday, TWG readers!

Last week, I got so lucky and was given World Cup tickets to the France vs. Norway quarterfinal in Boston. I truly felt so grateful to be there and to be able to bring my dad with me! It was an unbelievable afternoon, and everything seemed to fall perfectly into place for us. There was relatively little traffic, our seats were in the shade, and we got to witness two incredible goals from France. It was such a special day. 🇫🇷 🇳🇴

To top it all off, before the game, I joined Rog, Rory, Mayor Michelle Wu, and Baseball Hall of Famer Pedro Martínez on Match Day Live at Marriott Long Wharf in Boston. I had the chance to ask Pedro about the magic of the Red Sox winning the World Series in 2004 and hear from the mayor about how much hype there is for the Boston Legacy in my hometown. 💚

The final Match Day Live stop will be at Fanatics Fest held at Javits Center on Sunday at 1 p.m. ET before the men’s World Cup Final! Becky will join Rog and special guests on stage, followed by an epic watch party. Grab your tickets here. We’ve secured 50 half‑off tickets just for our community (code MIBMDL). If those sell out or you’d like to attend multiple days, use MIB20 for 20% off. Joining MiB for these events has been so inspiring, and I cannot wait until it’s time for the women’s World Cup next summer! 🎉

Until then, we’ve got a really spectacular week of content planned for you at TWG. Yesterday, we released an interview with Rose Lavelle and Emily Sonnett about the Queens Classic, thanks to our friends at Carmax. Today Lynn is back on “Good Vibes” for the first time since having baby Lucky, so be sure to tune in! Then USWNT and Washington Spirit forward Trinity Rodman is coming on “Friendlies” which drops a day early on Wednesday. And finally, we’ll check in with USWNT Captain and newly arrived Denver Summit star Lindsey Heaps ahead of the World Cup Final on Sunday. Will her beloved France be there? 🤔

Can’t believe the final is almost here… it’s been a whirlwind. Thank you so much for following along with our World Cup coverage! 🤩

Love,
Sam

P.S. It’s not every day a “Ted Lasso” star reps the Kansas City Current and gets emotional walking into the first women’s sports stadium. 🏟️

📢 TWG HQ Bulletin Board

🇺🇸 🇪🇸 USWNT Faces Spain This Fall & Reaps World Cup Rewards

The Olympic gold-medal-winning USWNT are set for one of their toughest tests yet: a fall clash with reigning World Cup champions Spain. This week, U.S. Soccer confirmed that the Americans will host two friendlies against the No. 1-ranked side on October 10 at Audi Field in Washington, D.C., and October 13 at Subaru Park in Chester, Pa.

Spain has already shown how dangerous they can be against top opposition (just ask England after their bruising 4-0 defeat), so coach Emma Hayes will have plenty of tactical preparations ahead. The timing is critical too, with the friendlies held just over a month before the U.S.’s World Cup qualifier vs. El Salvador.

More: As if you needed any more incentive to tune in, USWNT legend Crystal Dunn also will be honored with a special pre-match retirement ceremony.

💸 Equal Pay in Action: How the World Cup Earnings Impact the USWNT

While the USWNT may not have taken the field at this summer’s World Cup (although Trinity Rodman is already getting hyped for 2027), some players will benefit from the prize money. Following their exit in the Round of 16, the USMNT brought in $16 million. With the 2022 collective bargaining agreement (CBA) which introduced equal pay, these funds are now divided among the U.S. federation and men’s and women’s sides. Discover how this reshaped compensation across U.S. Soccer and which USWNT players will receive a share.

⚖ How the Split Works:

U.S. Soccer is set to keep 20% of the total prize money, while the remaining 80% is split evenly between the 26‑player men’s World Cup roster, and the 26 players who are selected for the women’s World Cup (pending CONCACAF qualification).

🤝 The Landmark Deal:

The equal split of World Cup prize money was established in the 2022 agreement, the first of its kind globally, after years of litigation over inequitable pay and conditions. (Sam served as the USWNT Players Association’s Vice President and Treasurer through negotiations of the historic CBA, which inspired other nations across the globe.) Running through 2028, it also guarantees equal payouts for friendlies, formal competitions and a 50/50 split from an allocated portion of U.S. soccer's commercial revenue.

Next Up: The prize money hasn’t been revealed yet for the 2027 tournament, but will be split evenly. FIFA President Gianni Infantino said he hoped by 2027 the total prize pool would be equal for men’s and women’s World Cups.

⚔ An NWSL Rivalry Weekend Marked by Upsets

This NWSL weekend was one to remember with Trinity Rodman doing what she does best—scoring bangers, Kansas City’s Vanessa DiBernardo returning to the pitch for the first time since maternity leave, rising star Kennedy Fuller delivering her first goal for new club Bay FC, and retired USWNT star Crystal Dunn etching her name in North Carolina Courage history as the third player inducted into the Ring of Honor. (Don’t miss Sam and Crystal reminiscing about some of their most unforgettable moments below.)

While the World Cup kept us enthralled, the NWSL’s Rivalry Weekend delivered its own share of close calls, shock upsets and plenty to unpack. Let’s dive in!

Seattle Reign 👑 2-0 Portland Thorns 🥀

Playing in front of the fourth-largest crowd in Seattle history, the Reign returned to Lumen Field for the Cascadia Rivalry against arch-rivals, Portland, which marked their first win in three games. With starting keeper Claudia Dickey sidelined by an ankle injury, Seattle leaned on back-up Cassie Miller, who became the first Reign goalkeeper to make nine saves in a clean sheet performance in a regular season game. Kicking off the goal-scoring early, defender Ryanne Brown floated a gorgeous strike to the far side of the net in the eighth minute to claim her very first NWSL goal. At the other end of the half, midfielder Maddie Mercado sealed the 2-0 scoreline, marking her third goal this season.

San Diego 🌊 0-2 Angel City FC 🪽

Meanwhile, Angel City beat their SoCal rivals at SnapDragon to claim their first back-to-back wins since March. The comeback squad’s roaring first half began with a brace of Brazilian goals with midfielder Maiara Niehues capitalized on a deflected pass to head it home, becoming the first ACFC player to achieve a four-game scoring streak. Nine minutes later, Ary Borges scored from close range off a throw-in to make it two. Sadly, beloved ACFC player Jun Endo suffered a non-contact injury and had to depart the match. In the second half, the Wave pressed hard, outshooting ACFC five to zero on target, but goalkeeper Angelina Anderson stood tall with six saves to preserve the clean sheet and the win.

Sam’s Take 🗣️: I wasn't so sure about Angel City's changes over the summer break, but they are looking good so far. They have the potential to go on a little run here. Their next two opponents are Chicago and Louisville. If results continue, ACFC could find themselves in playoff position in no time.

Orlando Pride 💜 3-0 Kansas City Current 🩵

After a lingering injury acquired before the break, Orlando striker Barbra Banda returned to the pitch in a decisive victory that featured Brazilian legend Marta’s 50th goal for the Pride across all competitions. Center-back Hannah Anderson also launched a header into the back of the net following a corner kick. The Pride sealed the win with Banda pouncing on a goalkeeping error in the 85th minute for her 12th goal of the season—cementing her place as the front-runner in the Golden Boot race.

More: See whose stock rose and fell after this weekend’s NWSL matches.

👸 The Biggest Signing in WSL History

The summer’s most anticipated transfer saga boiled down to a choice between several clubs, including the Boston Legacy and London City Lionesses, and now the verdict is in. After 14 years, two‑time Ballon d’Or winner Alexia Putellas will swap Barcelona for Bromley. Her recent signing for London City in the Women’s Super League was unveiled in New York last week, where she joined club owner Michele Kang to announce the decision.

The move is unprecedented, with Putellas trading one of the world’s most esteemed European clubs for a side that’s only been in the top flight of women’s football for a year and finished sixth last season, meaning no Champions League for the Catalan star in 2026. However, Kang’s ambitious investment in the burgeoning club that is the first and only WSL team that’s independent of a men’s side won her over. (Even LCL’s new kit reflects their innovative mentality.)

The Spanish midfielder, who has signed a three-year deal, leaves behind a storied legacy at Barça, scoring 232 goals in 507 appearances and winning 10 league titles, as well as four Champions League trophies.

The Upside for the WSL: Putellas’ arrival delivers a major boost for the league. Her star power brings immediate global recognition, ensuring international attention follows wherever “La Reina” plays. Her presence is poised to spike not just attendance numbers, but also the league’s broadcast potential, enhancing TV deals, sponsorships and media coverage.

The Possible Downside: While the benefits of a star like Putellas committing her future to the WSL are undeniable, some worry it could deepen the league’s parity problem. Yet others argue that ambitious investors like Kang bring the kind of competition and resources essential for driving growth.

Sam’s Take 🗣️: Really interesting move for Alexia to go to London City. It definitely speaks to Michele Kang's willingness to pay, but I think it also speaks to Alexia's desire to challenge herself in a club environment that is still developing and growing into its full potential. She is seeking a challenge and to me, that's the kind of mentality that keeps you at the top of your game. I'm excited to see how London City can perform in the WSL this upcoming season.

More Trades Shaking up the WSL 🫨

Barça veteran Mapi León has also signed for LCL, bringing a wealth of experience with 27 trophies at club level, 50 caps for Spain and rivaling Georgia Stanway in the tattoo department.
After over 100 appearances for Barcelona, left‑back Ona Batlle is also making the leap to London (we’re sensing a trend here), but to join Arsenal. The versatile defender is set to reunite with ex-Manchester United teammate Alessia Russo, and fellow Spaniard Mariona Caldentey. As you may recall, these sides are very familiar.
It’s that Swiss connection! Lia Wälti may have departed Arsenal, but her Switzerland national teammate—Géraldine Reuteler, a breakout star in last summer’s Euros—recently joined from Eintracht Frankfurt, having scored 54 goals in 184 appearances.
Lastly, Champions of England Manchester City are reinforcing their backline, signing England international Niamh Charles from Chelsea. After six seasons at Stamford Bridge and 173 appearances, Charles arrives with five WSL titles, four FA Cups and three League Cups.

🗓️ Must-Watch Matches Worth Rearranging Your Plans For

Queens Classic: Gotham FC 🦇 vs. Washington Spirit 💛 (TOMORROW, 8 p.m. ET, ESPN)

The spotlight on this highly-anticipated match has only grown since the Bats signed star striker Sam Kerr, who will be eligible to play for the first time since returning to the NWSL. Plus, our very own Sam Mewis will be attending! Not to mention, this re-match between last year’s NWSL Championship winners and runners-up is sure to set a new attendance record and secure more fans in Queens, the site of Gotham’s home stadium starting in 2028.

Kansas City Current 🩵 vs. San Diego Wave 🌊 (Friday, 8 p.m. ET, Prime Video)

First-place San Diego and sixth-place Kansas City—separated just by four points—are both coming off defeats ahead of Friday’s match-up. The Current will look forward to a home match at their CPKC Stadium fortress, hoping to steady the ship while waiting to see if USWNT winger Michelle Cooper is fit to feature. Meanwhile, the Wave aim to prove their stumble against Angel City was only a blip as they chase another win on the road.

Utah Royals 🦁 vs. Orlando Pride 💜 (Saturday, 8:45 p.m. ION)

After a historically strong start to the season, Utah stumbled following the break, suffering back-to-back losses against Chicago and Gotham, while conceding three goals in each game. That’s over 30% of their season’s goals in just two matches. This month, the Royals announced the transfer of stalwart defender Janni Thomsen to LCL. A starter in eight matches during their 10-game unbeaten run, Thomsen was pivotal to the Royals’ standout defensive record this season. Next up, Utah hosts Orlando, boosted by their 3-0 win vs. Kansas City and the recent return of Banda, to see if they can turn things around.

🗞️ News & Notes

🤩 Side-netting stunner! Chicago Stars’ Micayla Johnson equalized for the U.S. Youth National Team in a friendly vs. England in the first-ever women’s international match played at the Arthur M. Blank National Training Center.

🍀 Turns out Liverpool was just a layover with Irish international Denise O’Sullivan signing with Gotham after six months overseas.

🇵🇸 Palestine has never qualified for a women’s World Cup. Meet the Seattle-based soccer player looking to change that.

💪 Vermont Green is on the verge of their first USL W League Final on July 18. Check out the special environment being cultivated by Sam’s local team at Virtue Field.

Sam’s Take 🗣️: I am so proud of this team! While I couldn't coach this year, Vermont Green has gone undefeated all season and have the opportunity to win the league in their very first season! I'm so excited to watch. Up the Green!

🤔 It’s TWG Trivia Time

This week’s question:

Select your answer for a chance to win a coveted TWG patch.

Last week’s answer: Melanie Barcenas paid homage to Alex Morgan’s 2019 World Cup goal vs. England by replicating her tea-sipping celebration. Of Morgan’s 123 USWNT goals, what number was that semifinal strike? The answer is 107.

Congrats to Pamela Mudway, who was the first person to respond with the correct answer. Pamela, let us know your address and we’ll get your patch in the mail! 💌

🤸 Moment of Joy

Samantha writes: Hi Sam (and Becky, Lynn, and Kristie), Big fan of The Women’s Game, USWNT, and Gotham. I live in Queens, so I was SO excited when they announced the Queens Classic and the move to Etihad.

I’m a lifelong soccer player and convinced 10 of my neighborhood ladies to join me at the Queens Classic. We are a big group of strong women with an age range of nearly 25 years, who met at the gym and got close during the pandemic, supporting each other through lots of life’s highs and lows. I cannot wait to introduce them to my lifelong love of the game and was thrilled when they all agreed to go to the game! Would love to meet you at Citi if we can! Go batties! Go hotdogs! Go USA!

Sending warm regards from Queens,
Sami

Sam writes: Hi Sami, that’s awesome that you rallied all of your friends for the Queens Classic! I am so excited for this one too—40,000 fans under the lights is going to be incredible. And I’ll also be hosting Footy Fest outside the stadium all afternoon, so come hang! Gotham’s lined up DJs, a World Cup semifinal watch party, and more. Plus, from 6-6:45 p.m. there will be a live recording of the “Welcome to the Party” podcast with USWNT legends Julie Foudy and Abby Wambach, joined by Chelsea star Lucy Bronze. It’s going to be such a fun, full day, and I can’t wait to root on Rose and Sonnett… and maybe even Sam Kerr! Hope to see you there! <3

Love,
Sam

📝 Want to be featured in next week’s TWG newsletter? Send Sam an email! All your questions, comments, and roast chicken recipes can be sent to womensgamemib@meninblazers.com

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A 50th NWSL goal & an Alex Morgan tea tribute 🎆

Megan Swanick — Tue, 07 Jul 2026 10:00:00 +0000

Happy Tuesday, TWG readers!

I am still recovering from my weekend of outdoor activities and hot dogs 🌭, but I had such an awesome time. Pat and I had friends in town, and we rode bikes to the Vermont Green game, went sailing, and floated down the river on tubes. We even brought our TV onto the back patio to watch World Cup and NWSL games outside. I applied sunscreen very responsibly and, while a bit on the tired side, I’m feeling energized by this amazing summer of soccer. ⚽️

We also have such a big week ahead here at TWG! You can watch an all-new episode of “Good Vibes” with Becky Sauerbrunn dropping today, and Thursday on “Friendlies” we’ll be joined by World Cup winner, Olympic gold medalist, and friend of the pod Crystal Dunn. We’re also recording with some very special guests ahead of the Queens Classic in New York City… it might just be Rose and Sonnett, so get ready for some chaotic fun. With the NWSL back in full swing, July’s free‑agency frenzy, and blockbuster trades happening across Europe, the action isn’t slowing down. We’re previewing all the stories unfolding, so follow along for every twist and turn along the way. 🎙️

Meanwhile, the men’s World Cup is coming down to the wire in the Round of 16. MiB is still on our Match Day Live Tour of the U.S. for the 2026 World Cup. I’m super excited to be joining Rog on stage for the Boston live show this Thursday, July 9 at the Marriott Long Wharf. Our show will end at 2 p.m. and then Mayor Michelle Wu and the City of Boston are putting on a watch party for the France vs. Morocco game. Come hang out with me before the quarterfinals! 💚

And, lastly, if you’re not glued to your NWSL Fantasy Draft, are you truly living? I've NEVER been a Fantasy sports girl, but realize I've been missing out. I started Michelle Cooper, Ashley Sanchez, Cloé Lacasse, and Sophia Wilson this past weekend. Those four players alone got me 50 points. If all of this is meaningless to you... join our Fantasy league at your own peril. It's addicting. 😂

Thank you all for being here! 🫶

Love,
Sam

P.S. Hydration breaks have stirred nothing but controversy this summer. Now USWNT captain Lindsey Heaps sounds off on why she hopes they won’t be used in the women’s World Cup. 📣

P.P.S. Forget fortune tellers, this cat has nailed 90% of World Cup results. No crystal ball needed. 🔮

📢 TWG HQ Bulletin Board

JOIN US IN BOSTON

🎆 SoCal Teams Soar & a July 4th Throwback Celebration

The NWSL picked back up with inspiring debut goals, milestone moments and iconic celebrations. Here’s all the action in case you missed it over the weekend:

San Diego Wave 🌊 2-0 Gotham FC 🦇

In their first game back without star Brazilian forward Dudinha (who tore her ACL against the USWNT in June), the first-place Wave held off Gotham, who arrived fresh off their 2026 Challenge Cup win. Colombian goalkeeper Luisa Agudelo marked her NWSL debut with four saves to secure a clean sheet, including two late denials against Rose Lavelle. The Wave failed to convert their early chances, but 18-year-old Melanie Barcenas refused to be denied, opening the scoring for San Diego in the 45th minute with a beautiful turn and strike, before hitting Alex Morgan’s famous tea-sipping celebration—a fitting Fourth of July tribute to a team legend. Then in stoppage time, the Wave’s Tatum Wynalda pressed Gotham goalie Ann-Katrin Berger, who was well outside the penalty box, which forced a turnover. Rookie Lia Godfrey pounced, threading a pass to Trinity Byars, who coolly slotted it home, sealing the 2-0 win and marking San Diego’s league-high seventh goal in the final 15 minutes of a game this season.

Angel City 🪽 2-0 Orlando Pride 💜

Angel City limped into the break with only one win in eight games, which led to the abrupt dismissal of then-head coach, Alexander Straus. But bold moves—including signing USWNT rising star Ally Sentnor, who started against Orlando and clocked three shots in her debut—helped spur a defiant restart in a 2-0 win against the 2024 champions. ACFC midfielder Maiara Niehues netted the opening goal (her fourth of the season), while Icelandic striker Sveindís Jónsdóttir marked her return from injury by scoring a low strike past goalkeeper Anna Moorhouse. Lingering injuries impacted both teams with ACFC defender Savy King noticeably absent, alongside the Pride’s striker Barbra Banda, who finished May as the NWSL’s top scorer.

More Highlights:

On Friday, the Washington Spirit’s Trinity Rodman followed up the game’s opening goal with a last-minute strike to save all three points and secure a 2-1 win vs. Houston. Her USWNT teammate Sophia Wilson also scored her 50th NWSL goal for Portland with her husband Michael Wilson and baby Gigi watching on from the stands. 🥹

Meanwhile, new signings continue to find their groove with Bay FC’s Claire Hutton celebrating her first-ever goal for the club and Croix Bethune assisting teammate Michelle Cooper twice in Kansas City’s 3-0 win against Denver.

In surprising news, the Chicago Stars finally broke Utah’s 10-game unbeaten streak and Louisville’s rough patch continued with their fourth defeat in four league games, amidst reports that star forward Emma Sears has requested a trade.

Sam’s Take 🗣️: I understand if she wants out of Louisville. The club was relatively successful last season, making playoffs for the first time ever, but they have not made many changes that showcase a real desire to compete. For a player like Emma, she needs to be pushed in training and supported in games to make a run at the World Cup roster next summer.

Capping off the weekend, North Carolina’s Ashley Sanchez continues her season to remember, scoring a brace in a 3-1 victory over the Reign (and hat tip to Evelyn Ijeh for this beautifully self-aware dummy run). With nine goals this season, Sanchez sits second in the Golden Boot race, trailing only Banda.

More: View the NWSL standings here.

🏃‍♀️ Stars Eye Moves as Free Agency Opens

The NWSL may finally be back, but many players, whose contracts expire at the end of this season, will be thinking about free agency, which officially opened on July 1. Eligible athletes and their agents are now able to weigh contract extensions and potential moves across the league. Here is a quick breakdown of free agency and some standout players who could be on the move:

What is free agency? Instead of teams holding rights over expiring contracts, players themselves control their next move.
Who’s eligible? Any player whose deal runs out on December 31, 2026.
What’s next? Negotiations for Standard Playing Agreements can begin immediately, with contracts starting no earlier than January 1, 2027.

🤩 The Big-Ticket Players Who Could Move Clubs After the Season

At the top of this list is one of the league’s most creative attacking midfielders, Rose Lavelle, who has 16 goals for Gotham over her past three seasons. Meanwhile, Sophia Wilson, who scored her sixth goal of the year for Portland this Sunday, will also see her contract expire at the end of 2026. However, unsurprisingly, the Thorns have made an “aggressive offer” to extend the USWNT star’s contract, according to The Athletic.

The list of high-profile expiring contracts doesn’t stop there. Former NWSL Goalkeeper of the Year, Ann-Katrin Berger, is also out of a contract at the end of 2026 with Gotham, who have had inconsistent results in 2026, though Berger has been a bright spot, retaining the highest save percentage (81.1%) in the league. Washington Spirit’s defensive midfielder Hal Hershfelt, who was named an alternate on the 2024 Olympic roster, is an impending free agent as well, as are veterans Alyssa Naeher (Chicago Stars) and Marta (Orlando).

👀 A Free Agent We’d Like to See Make a Move

Gotham forward Midge Purce, who assisted both goals and was named NWSL Championship MVP in the Bat’s 2023 trophy-winning season, hasn’t been a lock in her team’s starting XI this season with increased competition in attack (although she has done a great job deputizing as a defender when needed). With increased competition, Purce could make a fresh start at a club in search of more pace, power and technical ability on the wing.

🖋️ Major Women’s Super League Shakeups & Signings

It’s the summer transfer season—a time of unbridled joy, heartbreak and eternal hope that the rumor mill might turn into reality. On July 3, 27-year-old Lioness Georgia Stanway signed for Arsenal on a three-year contract off a free transfer from Bayern Munich, confirming her WSL homecoming after four years. Following her move to Germany in 2022, she announced herself as one of football’s elite midfielders, winning four Bundesliga titles, including two trebles. With Arsenal, she’ll help anchor a midfield hoping to challenge for a third Champions League trophy and their first WSL title in eight years. And to seal the deal? She commemorated the proud moment by literally tattooing her arm. Also, marking their second signing of the summer, Arsenal recruited prolific forward Selina Cerci from Hoffenheim who has racked up 34 goals in 47 appearances.

More: Speaking of North London, former NWSL Rookie of the Year, Jenna Nighswonger, is back at Arsenal after a loan at Aston Villa. Now the question on everyone’s minds: will she stay in the U.K. or head back to the NWSL? 🤨

Across London, the NWSL’s loss is the WSL’s gain as Chelsea revealed their first marquee signing of the summer: Japan international Manaka Matsukubo. The 21-year-old midfielder, named the 2025 NWSL Midfielder of the Year with 11 goals last season and five this campaign, joins on a five‑year deal from the North Carolina Courage. Now she steps into a London juggernaut in transition, determined to climb back to the top of the table.

Additionally, Lucy Bronze agreed to a one-year extension with the Blues, where the decorated right-back has helped deliver four domestic trophies since arriving from Barcelona in 2024. Up-and-coming striker Aggie Beever-Jones, who joined the Blues academy at nine, also re-signed with the club until 2030.

Plus: Fresh off four years at Chelsea, forward Johanna Rytting Kaneryd has bid farewell, signing a three-year deal to join French side OL Lyonnes. 🇫🇷

💫 Matches That Will Bring You Joy This Weekend

Orlando Pride 💜 vs. Kansas City Current 🩵 (Friday, 8 p.m. ET, Prime Video)

Indomitable striker Barbra Banda is still in doubt for Friday’s meeting with the 2025 Shield winners as the Pride look to bounce back from their 2-0 away defeat vs. Angel City. They will face off against two-time NWSL MVP Temwa Chawinga, who is third in the Golden Boot race (behind Banda and Ashley Sanchez) with eight goals this season, including five in the Current’s last five games.

Utah Royals 🦁 vs. Gotham FC 🦇 (Friday, 10 p.m. ET, Victory+)

This game is sure to be intense, with both sides desperate to erase recent heartbreaks on the road. Without midfield maestro Mina Tanaka, the Royals fell 3‑2 in Chicago, but will look to harness home‑field advantage to rebound against the Bats. Utah will have their work cut out for them as they square off against the best defense in the NWSL, with Gotham looking to stage a comeback after their recent loss to San Diego. With a win, Gotham would clinch their 100th NWSL victory, making them just the sixth club to hit that milestone.

San Diego Wave 🌊 vs. Angel City 😇 (Saturday, 8:45 p.m. ET, ION)

Do it for the bragging rights! Fresh off their win against Orlando, Angel City sets off for San Diego to test their mettle on the road in what’s always a fiercely contested SoCal rivalry match. The Wave are brimming with confidence after their 2-0 victory vs. Gotham, while Angel City will be hoping to extend their winning ways at SnapDragon, fueled by the firepower of newly returned striker Sveindís Jónsdóttir and midfielder Maiara Niehues, who is in red-hot form.

The Queens Classic: Gotham FC 🦇 vs. Washington Spirit 💛 (Wednesday, 8 p.m. ET, ESPN)

A historic showdown takes place next week as Citi Field plays host to a re-match of last year’s NWSL Championship between the Empire vs. the District. The game marks the league’s first within NYC city limits, the first women’s sporting event at Citi Field, and the first in which international star Sam Kerr, who just joined the club from Chelsea, will be eligible to play.

Sam’s Take 🗣️: I'll be at this game! I'm also hosting Footy Fest during the day right outside the stadium. Gotham has scheduled an entire day of programming, including DJs, a podcast recording with “Welcome to the Party,” and a World Cup semifinal watch party. Come hang out, and let's celebrate this huge occasion!

🗞️ News & Notes

Tell a friend to tell a friend, our Editor-in-Chief Sam Mewis will be inducted into the UCLA Athletic Hall of Fame this fall.
Speaking of honors, Crystal Dunn—champion, mother, broadcaster, flautist (what can’t she do?)—takes her place in the Courage’s Ring of Honor on July 11.
Here’s a look at the top 10 NWSL MVP contenders so far this season. So many of our favorites are in the mix!
MAJOR news heading into July: The Queens Classic is already making history, smashing the NYC women’s sports ticket record.
The ESPY Awards are back: Vote for your favorites including Angel City’s Savy King, Kansas City’s Temwa Chawinga and Spain’s Alexia Putellas, who are all nominated.

🤔 It’s TWG Trivia Time

This week’s question:

Choose your answer for a chance to win a coveted TWG patch.

Last week’s answer: In the past few years, the women’s football transfer record has been set and broken a few times. Which American player currently has the highest transfer record, briefly setting the new standard worldwide when she signed for her latest club? The answer was C) Alyssa Thompson.

Congrats to Maureen McGlone, who was the first person to respond with the correct answer. Maureen, your patch is on the way! 💌

🤸 Moment of Joy

Hannah writes: Hi Sam, You were asking about organizations that are working to clean up Lake Champlain. Rethink Runoff focuses on the whole Lake Champlain basin. They are doing good work and want more people to be involved.

Thanks!
Hannah Tracy

Sam writes: Hi Hannah, I was touched by the number of emails I received about organizations that are working to clean up the lake near me in Vermont. It’s so encouraging to see how many people care about protecting our waterways and want to pitch in. I am definitely ready to learn more about Lake Champlain and how to keep it clean… It's such a gorgeous spot and an important natural resource for our community. Efforts like Rethink Runoff give me hope that with collective action, we can restore and preserve the lake for generations to come. I’ll be reaching out to them soon to help! Thank you for writing in! <3

Love,
Sam

📝 Want to be featured in next week’s TWG newsletter? Send Sam an email! All your questions, comments, and roast chicken recipes can be sent to womensgamemib@meninblazers.com

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The NWSL is BACK & a familiar face is too 🥹

Megan Swanick — Tue, 30 Jun 2026 10:00:00 +0000

Happy Tuesday, TWG readers!

I spent the weekend in Philadelphia with the MiB team, joining Rog and Rory on Match Day Live on Saturday ahead of the Croatia vs. Ghana game. It was so fun to see the crowd brave the rain and to meet our guests, former Inter and AC Milan striker Mario Balotelli and former NFL linebacker Jeremiah Trotter. Thank you to everyone who showed up or tuned in! Before I left, I did manage to get myself a cheesesteak from Ishkabibble’s… a great recommendation that I got with Cooper sharp cheese, onions and green peppers. Let me know how I did! 🤔

As we all now know, I have some family news! Sam Kerr has announced that she’ll be playing for Gotham and the Mewis-Kerr’s have arrived in the New York/New Jersey area. I am so excited to have them closer to me and can’t wait to spend more time with my nephew. I’m heading to see them next weekend. In the meantime, make sure to tune into “Mewis Squared” from last week and check out our Sam Kerr x Kristie Mewis mini-sode on YouTube! There may be more content coming soon too, so keep your eyes peeled. 👀

As the men’s World Cup ramps up, MiB continues its Match Day Live tour of the nation with Becky joining at Founders Green in Atlanta on July 7, and I’ll be back in Boston on July 9 for another appearance at the Marriott Long Wharf. These shows are free to the public and no registration is required. Hope to see some of you there! 🫶

Thank you!

Love,
Sam

P.S. I will always love Kristie’s defiant reaction to winning the Challenge Cup and proving the doubters wrong. So incredibly Mewis-coded. 🤣

📢 TWG HQ Bulletin Board

GRAB YOUR USA GEAR

Star Guro Reiten discusses her move to her new club Gotham FC and unpacks the Norway women's team path to compete in the women’s World Cup next year.

🔥 Major Global Moves Shaping the Women’s Game

🔄 Sam Kerr Is Having a Full-Circle Moment With Gotham FC

We’re so excited, we could do backflips! Australian attacker Sam Kerr is officially bringing her legendary goalscoring and creative flair back to the NWSL. After a six-and-a-half-year stint across the pond helping to propel Chelsea to five WSL titles, three FA Cups and three League Cups, she is set to return to her former club, Gotham, originally known as Sky Blue FC.

Despite leaving the NWSL in 2019, the prolific striker still remains the NWSL's top regular-season scorer with 77 goals. Across all competitions, she has tallied 78 goals in 124 appearances and earned three Golden Boots. And Kerr will be in good company! She’ll join former Sky Blue teammate Mandy Freeman, as well as Tierna Davidson and Savannah McCaskill from her Chicago Red Stars days. Plus, she’ll link up with Gotham’s former-Chelsea contingent— including Guro Reiten, who signed for the reigning champs in March, English center back Jess Carter and 2024 NWSL Goalkeeper of the Year Ann-Katrin Berger.

Sam’s Take 🗣️: Gotham's next home game is the Queens Classic at Citi Field on July 15 and lucky for me... I get to be there! I'll be hosting Footy Fest for Gotham, just outside the stadium before the game. So come early for a full day of programming and we can chat about how excited we are to (hopefully!) see Sam Kerr play live! 🙏

🤯 Plus, Real Madrid Break World Transfer Record in Women’s Football

In a real statement of intent, Madrid have signed Swedish 19-year-old rising star Felicia Schröder to a four-year deal that her club has called a women’s world-record transfer fee. Schröder has dominated the Damallsvenskan, the top division of Swedish women's football, since joining with 53 goals in 74 domestic club games for BK Häcken. Despite reported interest from multiple top-tier WSL and NWSL clubs, Schröder chose Madrid, a decision that could be driven by not only the financial upside, but also the promise of a clearer pathway to consistent minutes. While Chelsea reportedly submitted a $1.6 million record bid, the highly coveted young footballer would have likely faced stiffer competition to break into the starting XI of a team with greater depth and more established attackers. Wonder what all the fuss is about? Check out her best goals from the 2026 Europa Cup.

Schröder’s signing highlights the rapid increase in women footballers’ transfer valuations, as Madrid becomes the latest club to accelerate their spending to compete. While they have faced criticism in the past for underinvesting in their women’s team and refusing so far to allow them to play at the Bernabéu, they have taken more strides this summer. Alongside Schröder, they’ve signed Dutch striker Lineth Beerensteyn and extended the contract of Colombian maestro Linda Caicedo—assembling a trio of dynamic, goal‑scoring threats for a team hoping to up their ante in continental, as well as domestic, competitions.

And the timing of this sudden investment is… interesting. It comes just as global heavyweights—and reigning Champions League winners—Barcelona enter a moment of transition, with stars Alexia Putellas, Salma Paralluelo, and Mapi León all on the move. Barça have dominated for seven straight seasons in Liga F and demolished Madrid 12–2 on aggregate in last year’s UWCL quarterfinals. Maybe it’s a coincidence… or maybe Madrid sees an opening with Barça’s dynasty in flux.

🏆 NWSL Challenge Cup: Gotham Conquer Kansas City

The Challenge Cup felt a bit subdued this year in the midst of the World Cup and still operating under the single-match format introduced in 2024. Even so, it marked Ohio’s first-ever professional women’s soccer game and Gotham’s third NWSL title in three years. Playing under lights soon to shine over the league’s 16th franchise (Columbus kicks off in 2028), last year’s record-setting Shield winners, the Kansas City Current, fell to the reigning champions 2-0 in front of a crowd of 11,369 at ScottsMiracle-Gro Field.

The tide turned in Gotham’s favor in the 35th minute when Kansas City’s Lo’eau LaBonta brought down Gotham midfielder Jaelin Howell in the box, which led to a penalty that Spanish striker Esther González cooly converted from the spot. As Gotham's all-time leading goal scorer, this marks Esther’s third goal across all competitions in 2026. At the other end of the pitch, KC’s LaBonta, Croix Bethune and Temwa Chawinga all had clear-cut chances that they failed to finish. Then in the 78th minute, Gotham’s rookie winger, Jordynn Dudley, stole a loose ball, deftly maneuvered past center back Kayla Sharples, and tucked the ball into the far corner of the net to seal the team’s first-ever Challenge Cup victory, complete with confetti fights and a healthy dose of shade thrown the Current’s way.

Sam’s Take 🗣️: Despite the result, I thought Kansas City put a lot of pressure on Gotham's build-up out of the back. Croix Bethune in particular was impressive defensively. But Gotham just knows how to win trophies. And now that they're adding even more firepower up top with Sam Kerr, it's going to be tough to stop them from repeating their title. I think I'd just like to see them break from their rigid build-up when it's not on... I won't be mad at a few balls over the top to No. 20.

✍️ Plus, New NWSL Rules & Regulations

This year’s Challenge Cup also introduced new rules that will carry into the NWSL regular season, including updated protocols for hydration breaks during high-temperature matches.

A few of the NWSL’s new regulations also mirror fresh directives from the 2026 World Cup: To curb time wasting, the NWSL will now have a one-minute off-field injury treatment rule, requiring that players receiving medical attention leave the field for 60 seconds following any injury not related to a yellow or red card. Substitutions will also be timed, with players required to exit within 10 seconds of a stoppage. Lastly, the NWSL’s Fan Code of Conduct now includes online behavior, and any threatening behavior directed at players, teams, officials or other fans could result in the revocation of tickets or event bans.

🪄 TWG’s Wish List for the Rest of the NWSL Season

The NWSL regular season is BACK this week! After a much‑needed CBA‑mandated break and a pause for the World Cup, NWSL teams chasing the league leaders will be eager to rally, while top‑of‑the‑table clubs like San Diego, Portland and Utah will look to extend their strong early‑season form.

Here’s what every club can feel good about, and our wish list for what they’ll need to improve upon as the second half of the season kicks into gear:

🏔️ Denver Summit

Here to Celebrate: Lindsey Heaps’ arrival from Lyonnes. Plus, Dick’s Sporting Goods Park has become such a challenge for teams to play at (because of the crowd…aaand the altitude in the Mile High city.) 😮‍💨
Work on: Being more clinical in the final third. The Summit have generated moments of individual brilliance (see Melissa Kössler burying the Summit’s first‑ever goal), but not enough end product to separate themselves from the pack.

🦇 Gotham FC

Here to Celebrate: Former Chelsea winger Guro Reiten slotting in seamlessly and the team’s defensive prowess, thanks to stalwart center-backs Emily Sonnett and Tierna Davidson. Eight shutouts is no easy feat and marks the most of any team in the league this year.
Work on: While Gotham’s defense is like Fort Knox, their attack needs work with striker Esther González only tallying two goals during the regular season so far this year. Hopefully the arrival of a certain former Chelsea star can help in that department.

EXPLORE THE FULL LIST

🗓️ Matches to Cancel Your Weekend Plans For

Washington Spirit 💛 vs. Houston Dash 🧡 (Friday, 8 p.m. ET, Victory+)

The NWSL resumes play with the fourth-place Spirit welcoming the Dash, who are currently 11th in the standings. Coming off a 6-3-2 record so far and an unfortunate 5-3 loss to Club América in the Champions Cup Final, the hosts will look to recapture their momentum while the Dash, who suffered four losses in their last six matches, aim for a reset. USWNT contenders on both teams will also hope to make their mark, including Spirit center-back Tara Rudd and defensive midfielder Hal Hershfelt, as well as Houston full-back Avery Patterson and goalkeeper Jane Campbell, who leads the league in saves in 2026.

Angel City 🪽 vs. Orlando Pride 💜 (Friday, 10 p.m. ET, Prime Video)

Angel City’s slip in the standings in their last eight matches led to the shock departure of head coach Alexander Straus. Interim manager Leif Gunnar Smerud now takes the reins and inherits a roster in flux—highlighted by USYNT rising star Kennedy Fuller’s move to NorCal rivals, Bay FC. However, ACFC will hopefully be bolstered by the return of Sveindís Jónsdóttir and Savy King, who are both expected back from injury, as well as the debut of 2024’s No. 1 draft pick Ally Sentnor, who recently signed from Kansas City.

Sam’s Take 🗣️: I definitely am going to have one eye on Angel City these next few weeks. After a really disruptive summer break, I'm interested to see how the team responds on the field. They've already endured so much and, at a certain point, it's hard to keep the faith. Hoping they know something I don't and are going to use these big changes as a reset.

San Diego Wave 🌊 vs. Gotham FC 🦇 (Saturday, 8:45 p.m. ET, ION)

We are gearing up for a coastal clash between first-place San Diego Wave and the reigning champions Gotham this weekend. On Independence Day, Gotham will travel to Snapdragon Stadium to face the Wave who will be without their top scorer Dudinha, an early contender for NWSL MVP who had nine goal contributions before injuring her ACL in a Brazil vs. USWNT friendly this month. San Diego will hope Catarina Macario can make her long‑awaited debut soon, while the Bats arrive buoyed by their first Challenge Cup win and the signing of international star Sam Kerr.

🗞️ News & Notes

One of the all-time greats, Mia Hamm weighs in on next summer’s World Cup, a chance for another “cultural pivot” like in 1999, and the host nation of Brazil’s extraordinary footballing legacy.
Haitian international and Lyonnes midfielder Melchie Dumornay celebrated Haiti’s first World Cup goal in 52 years against Morocco.
Katia Itzel García has made more history this World Cup, becoming the first Mexican women’s referee to lead a men’s match. Garcia is just one of six women out of 170 referees this year.
During a World Cup tournament that has recently seen the rainbow captain’s armband banned, we’d like to shout out Seattle’s Pride Match organizers and supporters who, despite some pushback, brought real cultural exchange to their city and joy to the LGBTQ+ community.
Saucy Sonnett is staying at Gotham! The Bats have locked down the clutch defender through 2028. Take a look at some of her key stats below.

🤔 It’s TWG Trivia Time

This week’s question:

Select your answer for a chance to win a coveted TWG patch.

Last week’s answer: What number NWSL draft pick was Croix Bethune in the league’s last-ever draft? The correct answer was “Three.” Bethune was selected following No. 1 Ally Sentnor and No. 2 Savy King, who are now teammates at Angel City FC after Sentnor signed over the break.

Congrats to Chiara Sloboda, who was the first person to respond correctly. Chiara, your patch is on its way! 💌

🤸 Moment of Joy

Rachel writes: Hydration breaks: yay or nay from the player’s perspective? Does it interrupt the flow or are these helpful to catch your breath and grab a drink? Fox Sports is getting a ton of flack for the ads but I am curious what you think from a player’s perspective.

Thank you,
Rachel in NY

Sam writes: Hi Rachel! This World Cup is the first in which there have been mandatory hydration breaks at every match, and I think there are a few factors to consider. As someone who cares deeply about safety, I absolutely want organizers to prioritize athletes, especially as extreme heat has intensified with climate change. Still, as a former player, I also know that soccer is built on momentum, and any stoppage can swing the advantage either way.

For me, the key is balance. This tournament has treated hydration breaks as a default rather than a temperature‑based safeguard, and that shift has changed the feel of the game. It’s hard not to wonder whether this is truly about safety rather than just advertising during the breaks. Soccer is great because it is free-flowing and I want that to continue, while also looking after players’ health and making sure they get access to water and rest when temperatures exceed a safe level. Thanks for writing in with such a thoughtful question! <3

Love,
Sam

📝 Want to be featured in next week’s TWG newsletter? Send Sam an email! All your questions, comments, and roast chicken recipes can be sent to womensgamemib@meninblazers.com

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Our Wish List for the Rest of the NWSL Season 🪄

Laura Swanbeck — Tue, 30 Jun 2026 00:50:10 +0000

As we head into the second half of the NWSL season, we are excited to witness more beautiful goals, brilliant assists and miraculous saves across the league. This month, we took a quick look at all 16 clubs—spotlighting what each team has nailed so far and a couple key areas they’ll need to improve if they want to push for the playoffs or make a run at the NWSL Shield.

Read on and email us at womensgamemib@meninblazers.com to share what you’re most excited about as the rest of the NWSL season unfolds.

Angel City FC 🪽

Here to Celebrate: Reinforcements like attacking midfielder Ally Sentnor signing for the club, as well as striker Sveindís Jónsdóttir and key defender Savy King (remember how clutch her tackles are?) coming back into the fold after being out injured during the start of the season.
Work on: Where to begin? A head coach for starters after parting ways with Alexander Straus just over a year into his tenure. Beyond that, ACFC need serious target practice with the team having the lowest shots‑on‑target rate (29.1%) in 2026. Overall, Angel City is in need of a full reboot, still searching for direction and identity after major changes this summer, including the departure of rising talent Kennedy Fuller.

Bay FC 🌉

Here to Celebrate: USYNT rising star Kennedy Fuller joins a young, dynamic squad, which includes USWNT midfielder Claire Hutton and fiery forward Alex Pfeiffer. And don’t sleep on goalkeeper Jordan Silkowitz—the incredible shot‑stopper sits third in league saves this season and earned a U‑23 USWNT call‑up, a promising indicator of what’s to come. Can you believe a year ago she almost called it quits?
Work on: In 2026, Bay FC is tied for the second fewest goals in the league, alongside the Reign and just ahead of the Chicago Stars. With Italian striker Cristina Girelli as a centerpiece, they will need to generate more in attack with midfield creators like Fuller and Hutton slotting balls in behind for their forwards to take advantage of.

Boston Legacy 💚

Here to Celebrate: I mean, sure, we’re all delighted by the 44‑foot inflatable swan at Boston Common. But the real celebration is for 2025 Rookie of the Year Lilly Reale signing with her hometown club! We’re so excited to see her play for the Legacy, alongside fellow Massachusetts native Sammy Smith, and add some real grit and steadiness to their backline.
Work on: Control and discipline. The 2026 expansion side has the unfortunate distinction of committing the most fouls in the NWSL so far this year (174) and has already collected 25 yellows and two reds. 🫣

Chicago Stars 🌟

Here to Celebrate: Spanish defender Leila Ouahabi who has arrived from Man City with Champions League experience, composure on the ball, and the kind of veteran presence the Stars have been sorely missing. Her signing gives this back line a much‑needed boost, where she’ll be playing alongside established anchors like Sam Staab.
Work on: Their goal scoring capability, having tallied only five in 2026—the lowest in the NWSL—and their defensive resilience. So far, the Stars have conceded 24 goals, the most in the league. With Ouahabi stepping in, the team will need to reassess their shape, tighten their lines and give their keeper a fighting chance.

Denver Summit 🏔️

Here to Celebrate: Lindsey Heaps’ arrival from OL Lyonnes! Plus, how Dick’s Sporting Goods Park has become such a challenge for teams to play at not only because of the passionate and dedicated local supporters (the Summit leads the NWSL with an average home attendance of 32,303 fans)… but also the altitude in the Mile High city.
Work on: Being more clinical in the final third. The Summit have generated moments of individual brilliance (see Melissa Kössler burying the Summit’s first‑ever goal), but not enough end product to separate themselves from the pack. On the defensive end, they will need to step up, having the lowest number of tackles won (111) this season.

Gotham FC 🦇

Here to Celebrate: Former Chelsea winger Guro Reiten slotting in seamlessly and the team’s defensive prowess, thanks to stalwart center backs Emily Sonnett and Tierna Davidson. They have conceded only five goals and have eight totals shutouts in 2026, the most of any team in the league this year.
Work on: While Gotham’s defense is like Fort Knox, their attack needs work with striker Esther González only tallying two goals so far this year. Hopefully the arrival of a certain former Chelsea star can help in that department. 😉

Houston Dash 🧡

Here to Celebrate: The impact of young players including Kiki Van Zanten, Kat Rader, Maggie Graham and Kate Faasse, who have instilled energy and belief, scoring 12 out of the team’s 14 goals so far this season. Also, look for defender Avery Patterson to continue making an impact after an excellent USWNT camp—one where she showed her physicality and determination against a fierce Brazilian side. She’ll return to Houston with a real point to prove as she fights for a World Cup roster spot.
Work on: Sitting 11th in the table, the Dash need to tighten their defense in a major way. They’re currently tied for the third‑most goals conceded against, and until they can bolster their defense, contending for a playoff spot is going to be an uphill battle.

Kansas City Current 🩵

Here to Celebrate: How the Current have turned CPKC Stadium into a full-blown fortress, having yet to lose a home game so far this season. With Croix Bethune looking supercharged during the Challenge Cup, the second half of the season feels primed for her to break out and sync up with wingers like Michelle Cooper and two-time NWSL MVP Temwa Chawinga, who has averaged the most goals per 90 minutes in 2026.
Work on: The defensive midfield gap remains glaring after trading Hutton, and the early season double-pivot experiment having produced mixed results. With WAFCON kicking off July 26, they’ll need a contingency plan for Chawinga’s absence as she joins Malawi, especially if they want to keep their attack churning without their most clinical finisher.

North Carolina Courage 💙

Here to Celebrate: The impressive attacking trio that is Ashley Sanchez, Manaka Matsukubo, and Evelyn Ijeh (they’ve scored 15 out of the Courage’s 17 goals so far). And the Courage is tied with Denver and the Washington Spirit for the highest goals per 90 minutes this season.
Work on: Their high line has opened the door for quick counters and long balls, leaving them susceptible to pacy forwards like Barbra Banda. But this is still one of the league’s most complete squads—leading in total assists so far this season and showing the connection and chemistry within the squad.

Orlando Pride 💜

Here to Celebrate: The Pride’s attack has lit up the league this year, tied for the second amount of goals (18) and assists (14) in the NWSL. To no one’s surprise, Barbra Banda has the most goals (11) for the club and is the front runner for the Golden Boot.
Work on: That being said, Orlando need to be less reliant on Banda. It is worrisome that after her, the next‑highest scorer has just two goals this season. With her injuries over the past couple of seasons, as well as the upcoming WAFCON tournament where she’ll be on duty with Zambia, the Pride need to be more resourceful, build chemistry across the squad, and find goals elsewhere.

Portland Thorns 🌹

Here to Celebrate: Between Sophia Wilson, Olivia Moultrie, Reilyn Turner, and rising talent Pietra Tordin, the Thorns have been the league’s most ruthless finishers with 20 goals already, the highest tally in the league. Wilson has come back from maternity leave like she never left and Moultrie has truly made the Thorns' midfield her domain with five goals and four assists to boost her team this season.
Work on: Defending away from home. Portland have given up just two goals at Providence Park, but shockingly 12 on the road.

Racing Louisville ⚡

Here to Celebrate: In Bev Yanez we trust. While Louisville have a solid coach who’s operating without the same resources or investment as some of her peers, she’s the kind of leader who we hope can right the ship and keep her team pointed toward a second‑ever playoff appearance, even in a season where nothing has come easy.
Work on: USWNT attacker Emma Sears will be central to increasing their goal tally in front of the net in the second part of the season. Also, their away form needs serious work with zero wins, zero draws and no points secured outside their own stadium.

San Diego Wave 🌊

Here to Celebrate: The Wave sitting top of the table (although let’s not be hasty—Utah currently have a game in hand). San Diego have also recorded the most shots on target and have one of the most dynamic young midfielders in Lia Godfrey, who has put herself into pole position for Rookie of the Year contention.
Work on: Adaptability. With Dudinha out due to injury and Catarino Macario hopefully coming into the squad soon, the Wave’s attack will need to adjust fast. On the other end of the field, they will need to improve their shot-stopping ability as the team with the fewest saves in 2026 (hopefully new keeper Sandra Paños, who just joined from Club América, can assist in providing more defensive cover).

Seattle Reign 👑

Here to Celebrate: Goalkeeper Claudia Dickey, who this season made her mark with the most career shutouts and saves in Reign history— breaking records held by Hope Solo and Phallon Tullis‑Joyce.
Work on: A sharper attacking presence. They will need their forwards to ignite across the board in the second half of the season (with only nine goals thus far) and veteran leaders like Jess Fishlock back in the mix to steady and elevate the front line.

Utah Royals 🐝

Here to Celebrate: The Royals’ amazing 10 game-unbeaten run with the spine of the team firing on all cylinders, including impenetrable defender Kate Del Fava, midfield maestro Mina Tanaka, and Cloé Lacasse, who returned from an ACL injury looking better than ever and tied with Tanaka with four goals this season.
Work on: All they need to do is sustain this form and momentum throughout the second half of the season. Will they be able to overcome San Diego and Portland and battle for the NWSL Shield for the first time in club history?

Washington Spirit 💛

Here to Celebrate: Jose, the lucky coyote, which remains undefeated lore. But when it comes to the actual players, we think the Spirit have one of the best midfields in the league with top team scorer Leicy Santos (just watch this direct free-kick goal against Seattle) and Hal Hershfelt continuing to do the bruising, thankless defensive work that rarely gets spotlighted, but absolutely keeps this team running smoothly.
Work on: For the second half of the season, if they want to go from fourth place to challenging for first, they will need the magic of attackers including Trinity Rodman, Rosemonde Kouassi and Sofia Cantore heading into the final stretch.

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The Women Redefining This World Cup 💫

Megan Swanick — Tue, 23 Jun 2026 10:00:00 +0000

Happy Tuesday, TWG readers!

Congrats to our USMNT on another huge win against Australia last week! I watched with my parents at a local brewery and the vibes were just so good. Also, I’m so excited that tomorrow marks one year from the start of the women’s World Cup in Brazil! This summer’s tournament coverage from our counterparts at Men in Blazers has me really inspired (if you’d like daily World Cup updates sent straight to your inbox, subscribe to the MiB newsletter.) Witnessing Rog’s pure joy at the Match Day Live in Seattle and seeing the way he is bringing people together from all walks of life, from Marshawn Lynch to Trevor Noah to John Green… it really is incredible. And I can’t wait until it’s our turn! 🎉

In the meantime, we’re going to enjoy this tournament! TWG co-host of “The Captain,” Lindsey Heaps, will be joining Rog on Thursday at Match Day Live at Union Station in L.A. Then, I’ll be on stage with him in Philadelphia for Saturday’s Match Day Live at Spruce Street Harbor Park. If you’re in Philly, we’d love to see you there, and be sure to shoot me an email with recommendations for the best cheesesteak. 😋

Content-wise, we have a full week ahead. Check out my interview with two-time World Cup winner and Olympic gold medalist Michelle Akers that dropped yesterday, thanks to our friends at Bank of America. Today on “Good Vibes,” Becky and I are previewing the NWSL Challenge Cup between Gotham FC and Kansas City. Plus, I’ll welcome Gotham star Guro Reiten Thursday on “Friendlies,” and we’ll have an all-new “Mewis Squared” landing on Friday. 🎙️

Thank you all for being here! 🫶

Love,
Sam

P.S. Happy belated Father’s Day to all the dads out there—especially those who have coached, backed and believed in the women athletes in their lives. And yes… Emma Hayes co-signed this message. 🙌

P.P.S. In honor of the USA playing Australia this World Cup, shout out to Kristie and Sam for modeling elite sportsmanship. “Friendship” endures, and so does their national team rivalry. 🇺🇸🤝🇦🇺

TWG HQ Bulletin Board 📢

Join the free Men in Blazers Match Day Live! Tour in L.A. this Thursday, where our beloved USWNT captain Lindsey Heaps will jump on stage with Rog to preview the men’s USA-Türkiye match.

JOIN US

Women Make Their Mark at the 2026 World Cup 💪

During this summer’s tournament, women football icons have taken center stage, showcasing their talent and stepping into roles as pundits, broadcasters and more. USWNT star Trinity Rodman presented the match ball ahead of the USMNT’s clash with Australia in Seattle, a historic day which marked the men’s first back-to-back World Cup wins since 1930. Retired legends, including TWG co-host Becky Sauerbrunn, Alex Morgan, Christen Press, and Tobin Heath, also threw their support behind the team and cheered on the U.S. from the stands.

In the world of punditry, World Cup champion Aitana Bonmatí brought star power to Mexico City, excelling in a new role as a commentator for TUDN Mexico. Ahead of Spain’s first match vs. Cape Verde, the tactically-savvy Barça midfielder offered practical analysis to break down Cape Verde’s low block—advice many supporters felt coach Luis de la Fuente should’ve heeded, especially after Spain were held to a shocking 0-0 draw.

Meanwhile, USWNT coach Emma Hayes earned plaudits as a TV pundit for England’s 4-2 victory over Croatia and did what no one thought possible, somehow managed to make hydration breaks actually, well… fun. However, the controversial choice of set backdrop (which has since been rectified) led to charges of sexism and viewers rushing to Hayes’ defense.
On the broadcasting side, retired footballer Lori Lindsey became the first former NWSL player in the broadcast booth for a men’s World Cup. Lindsey launched herself into the history books with Ivory Coast’s 1-0 win over Ecuador, and will call eight games in the opening 13 days of the tournament.
Women also made history on the field, too: Tori Penso, Brooke Mayo and Kathryn Nesbitt became the first all-American, all-women officiating team at a men’s World Cup for Czechia’s 1-1 draw vs. South Africa. It was only four years ago, at the 2022 Qatar World Cup, that women officiated at the men’s tournament for the first time—led by France’s Stéphanie Frappart, who became the first woman to serve as a lead referee.

The Communities Bringing Joy to This World Cup 🤝

While this tournament has played out against a backdrop clouded by soaring costs and persistent allegations of corruption and discrimination, supporters around the world and across the U.S. have shown a very different side of the sport—one defined by joy, generosity and inclusivity:

🇲🇽🇰🇷 A multi-city love affair has erupted between El Tri supporters and South Korea’s Taegeuk Warriors. Their conjoined celebrations have inspired dance parties in Mexico City and also hit the diaspora in the streets of Los Angeles. Check out these absolute scenes in L.A.’s Koreatown.

🇩🇿 The community of Lawrence, Kansas have become unlikely, but devoted Desert Warriors supporters, greeting the Algerian National Team—stationed in the college town for the World Cup—with open arms.

🏴󠁧󠁢󠁳󠁣󠁴󠁿 Scotland fans have won the hearts of New Englanders (with Chelsea midfielder Erin Cuthbert and former Arsenal defender Jen Beattie traveling to Boston to support). The Tartan Army not only serenaded crowds at Foxborough and Fenway (where they kept singing on their day off), but also donated to children’s charities in Providence after the warm welcome they received.

Sam’s Take 🗣️: I have loved hearing about this wonderful connection between Scottish fans and my home city of Boston. Sometimes I feel like we get a bad rap... but showing the Tartan Army that we can be welcoming, joyous and warm, as well as intense sports fans makes me feel really proud. It’s definitely been one of the highlights of the World Cup for me so far.

NWSL: Three Major Transfers Over the Break 🤯

NWSL’s regular season may be on hiatus, but the headline-making trades just keep on coming! When the NWSL returns on July 3, here are a few notable names who will be sporting a new kit:

2025 NWSL Rookie of the Year, Lilly Reale, Joins Hometown Club Boston Legacy 💚

Twenty-two-year-old defender Lilly Reale is returning to New England in a surprise summer trade to 2026 expansion side, Boston Legacy. Amid a breakout rookie season, Reale clocked 24 starts in 29 appearances for Gotham, including the playoffs en route to the team’s second franchise trophy. She also earned her first USWNT cap under Hayes last season, with nine total appearances since then. Reale’s versatility and physicality will help shore up the Legacy’s defense and hopefully provide more game time for the left back who has started just 5 out of 11 games this year and is looking to make a push for the 2027 World Cup.

Sam’s Take 🗣️: While I selfishly am thrilled to have Lilly Reale heading home to Boston, I sense this is another example of the salary cap... working. I say that reluctantly, believe me, as I would still vote for these players not to be restricted by a salary cap at all. But when you have a player of Reale's caliber sitting on the bench at Gotham because the team is so stacked... it's a great opportunity for another team who needs her on the field to step in. Do you agree? Let me know by emailing us at womensgamemib@meninblazers.com.

USWNT Forward Ally Sentnor Departs Kansas City for Angel City FC 🪽

After signing for Kansas City from the Utah Royals last August in a seismic mid-season move, Ally Sentnor gets a fresh start with Angel City after making four goal contributions (two goals, two assists) in 12 appearances this year for the Current. The 22-year-old joins a young, talented program looking to turn the tide amid an eight-game slide in the standings, featuring just one victory (against Kansas City, ironically) and six defeats. The club parted ways with coach Alexander Straus, who they appointed last year from Bayern Munich, and named assistant Leif Gunnar Smerud as interim manager until a successor can be found.

Angel City Midfielder Kennedy Fuller Signs With Bay FC 🌉

In another shocking trade, U.S. youth international Kennedy Fuller (who signed for ACFC a few days shy of her 17th birthday) is trading SoCal for NorCal, signing for 13th-place Bay FC in exchange for $500,000 in intraleague funds and $20,000 in allocation money. Bay FC also received an international roster spot in the exchange. Fuller joins an exciting roster of young, up-and-coming talents, including USWNT star Claire Hutton and Alex Pfeiffer—who both made the leap west from Kansas City.

Plus: In Europe, the summer transfer market is heating up with Scotland captain Caroline Weir swapping Real Madrid for eight-time Champions League winners OL Lyonnes. Take heart, Madrid fans—Dutch striker Lineth Beerensteyn is arriving from Wolfsburg on a free transfer, which should soften the blow.

World Football: FIFA’s 5 Top-Ranked Teams Show Their Cards 🌎

🇪🇸 One year out from the 2027 World Cup, Spain—the reigning world champions—look limitless after stunning England 4-0 before downing Iceland 6-1 to top their group and officially qualify for the tournament. With a roster full of Barça heavyweights fresh off their fourth Champions League title, and Bonmatí having returned after a prolonged injury, Spain are soaring as they prepare to run it back.

🇺🇲 During the June international window, FIFA’s second-ranked USWNT split their results while negotiating international travel, passionate away crowds, and a physically domineering Brazilian side. Using their trademark tenacity, they came away with essential onsite experience and important lessons about what it will take to contend next summer.

🇩🇪 After a shocking group stage exit at the 2023 World Cup, Germany became the first European team to secure their spot for 2027 after beating Norway 2-0. One of the most exciting teams during last summer’s Euros (remember this incredible Ann-Katrin Berger save?), Germany will see proven veterans, alongside rising stars like OL Lyonnes’ Jule Brand, hoping to reclaim their glory days in which they won back-to-back World Cups in 2003 and 2007.

🏴󠁧󠁢󠁥󠁮󠁧󠁿 England’s harrowing 4-0 defeat saw the European Champions caught out defensively and technically outclassed by Spain, but those lessons (which came in a game missing key figures like captain Leah Williamson) will help sharpen their mentality ahead of next summer. They defeated Ukraine 3-0 in the final match of the window, but settled for second place in the group, making them the only UEFA team in the top five yet to formally qualify for the World Cup.

🇯🇵 Japan secured their World Cup spot comfortably after winning the Asian Cup in March. Over the June international window, the 2011 World Cup champions produced mixed results, showing they still need to refine elements of their game. The Nadeshiko played South Africa over consecutive matches in Osaka, first securing an emphatic 5-0 win against Banyana Banyana, before losing 1-0 against the 2022 WAFCON Champions.

Plus: Europe’s World Cup-qualifying playoffs are set and will officially kick off in October. Explore all 32 contenders, and see who stands between them and next summer’s World Cup.

Matches Worth Cancelling Plans For 🗓️

Türkiye vs. USMNT, Thursday (10 p.m. ET, Fox, Telemundo)

After beating the Socceroos 2-0 in Seattle, the USMNT clinched their spot in the Round of 32. With four key starters sitting on yellow cards and Christian Pulisic nursing a calf injury, coach Mauricio Pochettino may opt for a rotated lineup to keep starting players fresh and available for the knockout round, while giving more minutes to the team’s super subs, who will be crucial if the USMNT manage to mount a deeper tournament run.

NWSL Challenge Cup: Gotham FC vs. Kansas City Current, Friday (8 p.m. ET, Prime Video)

This week, Gotham, the reigning NWSL Champions, face last year’s Shield winners, Kansas City, in Columbus, the soon-to-be home of NWSL’s 18th team. The two teams are tied on points in fifth and sixth place, and will be hoping to use this opportunity to give them momentum heading into the second half of their seasons.

Sam’s Take 🗣️: I am excited for the Challenge Cup since it marks the return of NWSL after this summer break, but I struggle to give a lot of weight to it as a trophy. The title was born out of the COVID bubble in 2020, but the tournament has changed formats over the years and is now just a one-off game… in a neutral city, no less. I'm curious to see how these teams will use this game and if it feels important to the players. Tune in later this week to hear from Guro Reiten on “Friendlies,” who is playing in her first Challenge Cup, and Kristie on “Mewis Squared,” who won the inaugural tournament with the Houston Dash.

News & Notes 🗞️

She’s staying in KC! Two-time NWSL MVP Temwa Chawinga announced that she has committed her future to the Current until 2029. She also recently met eight-time Ballon d’Or winner Leo Messi at the World Cup when she served as the coin‑toss assistant for Argentina vs. Algeria.
The growth of soccer is surging in the U.S., and USWNT coach Emma Hayes can already picture a future where it becomes America’s No. 1 sport. In the immortal words of MiB: why not us?
What a family flex. Meet the first brother and sister to represent England at a World Cup.
And they’re not the only ones rewriting football lineage: Jenny and Tyler Bindon became the first mother‑son duo to appear at a World Cup.
This London City Lionesses player is taking on the fossil‑fuel industry, using the World Cup stage to push for stronger climate action. She also serves as an ambassador for the sustainability nonprofit, Football for Future, which just released its new “Pitches in Peril” report.

It’s TWG Trivia Time 🤔

This week’s question:

Choose your answer for a chance to win a coveted TWG patch.

Last week’s answer: In 2024, the NWSL Challenge Cup shifted to a single match format between the last season’s Shield winners and champions. In the first edition of this format, who scored the game-winning goal? The correct answer was Alex Morgan.

Congrats to Ashlyn Smith, who was the first person to respond with the correct answer. Ashlyn, your patch is on its way! 💌

Moment of Joy 🤸

Vivian writes: Hi Sam, Lynn, and Becky, I love Good Vibes (and all the TWG pods) so much! My question is: how did/do you as players or as fans get excited about a new team? I've been a Bay FC fan since their inaugural season and I've spent most of my life in CA (go Bruins!!!), but I'm moving to upstate NY for a job soon. Bay will always be my #1, but I feel like I should adopt a new team (Gotham?) that will be more accessible. It seems like there could not be a better time to be a Gotham fan, but it doesn't feel like all this is my team yet. Any advice for getting pumped up about a new team?

Thanks so much!
Vivian

Sam writes: Hi Vivian, Congrats on the new job and your upcoming move to New York! I completely understand wanting to support a more local team closer to where you live. Maybe you can have a west coast team and an east coast one? And when they play each other…well, we just won’t talk about that.

If you’re looking for a club that really fits, I’d start by exploring each team’s culture and history, and maybe see if there’s a player whose style you naturally gravitate toward. Sometimes that’s the easiest way in. And truly, there’s no rule that says you can only support one team. I still cheer for the North Carolina Courage because that chapter of my career meant so much to me, but I also support my hometown team, the Boston Legacy — and of course I’m always backing my friends Rose and Sonnett at Gotham. Let us know which team you end up supporting in this new era of yours, and thanks for writing in. <3

Love,
Sam

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What This Window Exposed About the USWNT 🔎

Megan Swanick — Tue, 16 Jun 2026 10:00:00 +0000

Happy Tuesday, TWG readers!

I am happy to report that I officially have World Cup fever! 🔥 It almost brought me to tears to see our USMNT win their opening match on Friday and celebrate with such unbridled joy and togetherness. I was surprised to realize how invested I was and how emotional I felt. I realized that since my injury and retirement, I’ve protected myself from the highs and lows of the game by maintaining some distance emotionally. The World Cup somehow has the power to break that down and remind me that feeling something about the game is actually the best part. 💫

And the summer of soccer is only getting started. We have three new episodes for you this week at The Women’s Game, including a special “Good Vibes” out today with me and Becky, featuring the organization Where Football Lives where we explore how this World Cup is creating important conversations around climate change and sports. Then tomorrow, we’re joined by Lindsey Heaps on “The Captain” to recap her USWNT camp in Brazil and experiences at the USMNT’s opening game in L.A. Finally, on Thursday we’re catching up with Canadian and Chicago Stars striker Jordyn Huitema about her summer plans (she just launched a new skincare line!) and Canada’s preparations for next summer’s women’s World Cup. 🇨🇦🏟️

Meanwhile, Men in Blazers’ Great American Road Trip is in full force for this summer’s World Cup, with Rog going from host city to host city for free pre-match shows with special guests. On Thursday, June 25, Rog welcomes Lindsey at Union Station in L.A. and then on Saturday, June 27, I’ll be the one jumping up on stage with him at Spruce Street Harbor Park in Philly to talk shop. I’d love to see some of you there in person. The first show last week looks like it was so much fun, and I cannot wait to join! 😎

Love,
Sam

P.S. Mariah’s Christmas album is to the holidays what this Latina artist’s catalog is to the World Cup. We don’t make the rules. 🎶

P.P.S. The ‘99ers film just wrapped and the cast has fully discovered the truth about soccer girl tan lines. A rite of passage, unfortunately. 😅

TWG HQ Bulletin Board 📢

GRAB YOUR USA GEAR

Scotland international and Angel City forward Claire Emslie joins us for a candid conversation about football, family and life beyond the pitch.

USWNT Beat Brazil at Their Own Game💥

Brazil 🇧🇷 0-1 USWNT 🇺🇸

After losing to As Canarinhas in São Paulo, the USWNT showed their fighting spirit in a scrappy second “friendly” that culminated in their first win in Brazil since 1997. While battling in front of a raucous crowd of 55,744, the U.S. squad displayed resilience and composure in a 1-0 win in Fortaleza, which coach Emma Hayes described as, “an experience I will never forget.” Following a first-half stalemate, Sophia Wilson fought off two defenders in the 63rd minute to unleash a low strike, which ricocheted off Brazilian defender Isabela into the back of the net. The officials officially labeled it an own goal, but Wilson did all the heavy lifting, so we’re chalking it up to a second goal in as many games. 😉

In the pantheon of chaotic USWNT matches, this one will go down in the books, featuring no less than eight red cards (four for Brazil players and four for staff, including head coach Arthur Elias), as well as 15 yellow cards. Shockingly, Trinity Rodman was not one of them, which she was quick to point out. Overwhelmed by Brazil’s physicality in their first meeting, the USWNT responded, matching their opponent’s strength and intensity – aided by Hayes’ roster selection of forward Michelle Cooper and defenders Avery Patterson and Kennedy Wesley. Despite a string of hard challenges and stoppages that kept the USWNT from finding any real rhythm, they maintained their emotional control, and when called for, occasionally dabbled in the dark arts, like when Bia Zaneratto shoved Emily Sonnett in the back and the experienced defender sold the moment just enough without retaliating. The foul earned the Brazilian forward a second yellow and an ejection from the game.

The game ended in controversy with police in riot gear enlisted to defend match officials, Brazil legend Marta accusing the head referee of making herself “the main figure of the match,” and players trading barbs on social media.

While this window gave us a few answers and some surprises (who knew Cooper could play right back?), it also left us with more questions to chew on:

1. Who is the USWNT’s first-choice goalkeeper?

The honest answer: there isn’t one, and that’s becoming harder to ignore. Hayes has continued rotating her keepers and stressed the need to prepare multiple players, but with Phallon Tullis‑Joyce sidelined this camp, the picture hasn’t gotten any clearer. Claudia Dickey and Mandy McGlynn both earned starts, but with the World Cup inching closer, the absence of a defined No. 1 isn’t just a talking point. Developing chemistry with the backline takes time, and the U.S. is running short on it.

Sam’s Take 🗣️: I do think the No. 1 spot is Dickey's to lose. But there are only 13 more games (MAX!) between now and the World Cup. If she started every single one, that would put her at 23 caps to start the World Cup. In 2019, at her first major tournament as a starter, Alyssa Naeher had twice as many with 46.

2. Where are our prime‑age midfielders – and why no minutes for Bethune?

The absence of Sam Coffey, who is recovering from knee surgery, was impossible to ignore this camp. Without her leadership and defensive organization, the group looked disjointed and exposed vs. Brazil—leading to the stark realization that the U.S. has almost no midfielders in their prime years. There’s a decade age gap between rising stars—Lily Yohannes, Claire Hutton, Olivia Moultrie, Jaedyn Shaw—and veterans Rose Lavelle and Lindsey Heaps. Adding a player in their prime would lend some vital steadiness to the squad.

Sam’s Take 🗣️: cough Ashley Sanchez! cough 👀

Then there’s the Croix Bethune question – the star midfielder didn’t see game time in either friendly. Was Hayes protecting her from a bruising Brazil side, or signaling that she’s not central to her long-term plans? Either way, it raises eyebrows a year out from the World Cup.

3. How can the USWNT be more clinical in front of goal?

Even with the sense of pride of winning away in Brazil, there was also a whiff of relief. Throughout the match, the USWNT had clear-cut chances they failed to convert, including Wilson’s point-blank shot in front of goal (saved by the big, outstretched paw of Brazilian and KC Current keeper Lorena) and Moultrie’s breakaway-shot that pinged off the post. As qualifiers approach this fall, the U.S. will need to learn how to finish their chances against strong opponents who won’t be as forgiving.

2026 NWSL Mid-Season Honors 🏆

What better time than this mid-season break to take stock of the first half of the season. From Trinity Rodman and Catarina Macario’s record-breaking signings, to USWNT Captain Lindsey Heaps announcing her return stateside this summer, to the debuts of Boston Legacy and Denver Summit, to Columbus announced as the NWSL’s 18th franchise, there’s been no shortage of watershed moments in 2026.

TWG is handing out our Mid‑Season NWSL Awards, including Best Rookie (Lia Godfrey, who’s thrived her first season in San Diego) and the Brick Wall Award for best defending (Kate Del Fava’s been so impressive holding down the backline for Utah). We’re also spotlighting the Best Comeback, Most Irreplaceable Player, Standout Award, and more. Explore the full list to see who made the cut and then write to us at womensgamemib@meninblazers.com to let us know your picks!

Global Football: Six Teams That Qualified for the World Cup 🌎

The June international window saw six teams—two from the Confederación Sudamericana de Fútbol (CONMEBOL) and four from the Union of European Football Associations (UEFA)—clinch their spots in the 2027 World Cup. Here are some highlights you won’t want to miss:

CONMEBOL

South America’s inaugural Women’s Nations League concluded this month and served as official qualification. With Brazil absent (the hosts have an automatic spot), Colombia finished first (resulting in star forward Linda Caicedo (Real Madrid) showing off her dance moves as the 2023 World Cup quarter-finalists prepare to run it back), and Argentina placed second to clinch roles in next summer’s historic event—the first women’s edition in South America. 💃

Ecuador and Venezuela kept their World Cup hopes alive as they finished third and fourth to book places in the interconfederation playoffs. The moment hit especially hard for Venezuela’s captain Deyna Castellanos (Portland Thorns), who buried a crucial equalizer to pull her side level with Argentina 1-1. If Venezuela makes it through the playoffs, it would be the nation’s first-ever World Cup appearance for either the men’s or women’s sides. 🥹

UEFA

Germany were the first UEFA team to secure their spot in the 2027 World Cup after topping their group in UEFA Nations League. Denmark, France and Spain also sealed their spots with first-place finishes, securing automatic qualification. While Denmark beat Serbia 4-1 and Spain trounced Iceland 6-1, in Grenoble, Les Bleues had to fend off the formidable Republic of Ireland, resulting in a 1-0 win. The Girls in Green could have qualified directly with a win, but their hopes were dashed after a moment of pure brilliance from France’s Melvine Malard (Manchester United), who capitalized off a corner with a wonder of a bicycle kick to secure all three points. 🤯

In a field more competitive than ever, a host of elite teams will head to the UEFA playoffs to snag their spot. That includes back-to-back Euro champions England, who finished second behind Spain, as well as Euro 2025 semi-finalists Italy. Those take place over the course of two international windows commencing this October. Learn more about how this all works.

Your Football Fix Until the NWSL Returns 🗓️

USMNT 🇺🇲 vs. Australia 🇦🇺 (Friday, 3 p.m. ET, FOX/Telemundo)

After an exhilarating start to the World Cup in which they dismantled Paraguay 4-1 in L.A., the USMNT will next meet Australia’s Socceroos (sadly, not the Man-tildas or Matil-dudes), fresh off a 2-0 upset against Türkiye. Standout players from down under included goal scorer Nestory Irankunda and goalkeeper Patrick Beach, who broke the Australian record for saves in a FIFA World Cup match in his debut. The real question is whether the Americans can sustain this form against such a disciplined Australian defense.

Sam’s Take 🗣️: After the World Cup game, I'm also hoping to catch the Vermont Green Women at home on Friday night at Virtue Field in Burlington, Vt. The team has gone unbeaten all season under new head coach Abby Carchio, and are fighting for the Northeast Division title in the USL W. Tune in here at 7 p.m ET if you want to follow along. Up the Green!

COMING SOON:

The NWSL Challenge Cup: Gotham FC 🏆 vs. KC Current 🛡️ (June 26, 8 p.m. ET on Prime Video)

Next week in Columbus, Ohio (just named the home of the latest NWSL expansion side), the 2026 Challenge Cup will see reigning NWSL Champions Gotham FC take on last year’s record-setting Shield winners, Kansas City Current. Fifth-place Gotham and sixth-place Kansas City both had slow starts to the season, but began to find their footing ahead of the break. A trophy lift could do wonders for their momentum when the NWSL season resumes.

News & Notes 🗞️

This week, an all-time international goal-scoring icon celebrated a birthday at the World Cup in Toronto. And, no, we’re not talking about Ronaldo.
Gotham’s building its first dedicated training facility in Jersey while its stadium may move to NYC. Ready for some Bridge‑and‑Tunnel chaos?
TIME announced the 100 Most Influential People in Sports. Despite being left off the list (in this year of all years!), Alexia Putellas continues living her best life.
Liga MX Femenil is now considered the most-watched league for women’s soccer in the world. And with a World Cup on the horizon, Mexico is just getting started! Amazing what allyship and investment can do.
This Manchester United mainstay got pranked for her bachelorette party and dressed in Man City sky blue. We’ll see if her friendships recover.
Speaking of City, after nine years, this Arsenal legend and assist queen heads north to sign a three-year deal and join her partner at the club. Love wins.

It’s TWG Trivia Time 🤔

This week’s question:

We’ll select a winner and reach out to make sure you receive your TWG patch.

Last week’s answer: In Australia’s triumphant penalty shootout over France at the 2023 World Cup quarter-final, which Matilda scored the game-winning goal? And the answer was Cortnee Vine, who converted the final spot kick, catapulting her country to its first-ever World Cup semifinal.

Congrats to Rebecca Hassan, who was the first person to respond with the correct answer. Rebecca, your patch is on its way! 💌

Moment of Joy 🤸

Edber writes: Hi, Sam! OG long-time listener – but believe it or not – first-time emailing TWG! My soccer IQ was literally built brick-by-brick by The Women's Game. Very grateful for y'all.

So, I'm asking this question in the context of June 9's Brazil-USA match and just the different approaches that each team's respective head coach took in dealing with the rough challenges on the field. It got me thinking about good coaches in women's soccer and I'd like to ask – why aren't there more NWSL GOATs that coach?!

I feel like awesome and smart folks like yourself, Becky, Ali Riley, Kelley O Hara, and so many more would be amazing coaches. I hope this question isn't too obscure and maybe as a non-soccer player... I could be missing something obvious. Thank you!

Best regards,
Edber from Los Angeles, Calif.

Sam writes: Hi Edber, Thanks for being an OG listener and writing in to The Women’s Game! First off, after watching the Brazil vs. USWNT matches, I am very grateful that we have a coach like Emma Hayes who is so grounded and always keeps a level head. It’s important to model that for players even during friendlies, so when major tournaments roll around, the team will be able to shut out the noise (literally and figuratively) and focus on what they can control—no matter the opponent, the crowd, or whether calls go our way.

We’re also seeing more women player-turned-coaches than ever before, from the Canada national team’s Casey Stoney to Racing Louisville’s Bev Yanez. I also had a blast coaching Vermont Green over the past few years. That said, there is a lot of pressure and high expectations put on coaches, so it’s not for everyone. I hope we have more former players hired as head and assistant coaches for the NWSL, WSL and national teams (FIFA’s new regulations will hopefully help) and more infrastructure and support for these pathways. But most of all, I hope players hanging up their boots choose what’s right for them—whether it’s coaching, refereeing, broadcasting, or something else that keeps them connected to the beautiful game. <3

Love,
Sam

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2026 Mid-Season NWSL Awards

Mon, 15 Jun 2026 23:42:40 +0000

During the NWSL break, we’re looking back at the players who’ve shaped the first half of the season both on and off the pitch. We’re releasing our Mid‑Season Awards, including Best Comeback, Most Irreplaceable, and, of course, our Standout Player of the Season – an honor reserved for the athlete who has impressed us the most so far in 2026. Take a look at the full list below!

And email us at womensgamemib@meninblazers.com to let us know your picks or who you think will hit their stride in the second half of the season!

🥹 Best Comeback: Sophia Wilson (Portland Thorns)

That’s right! Sophia Wilson earns our Comeback Award so far this season after having her baby Gigi less than a year ago. With her return to the Thorns in March, Wilson has logged five goals already (including her first one back, this stunner against Angel City, which helped secure the win) and one assist—all while looking every bit like a striker in her prime. Wilson has also been candid about how motherhood has shaped her perspective, saying, “I feel more grounded, more present, and I think that's how I view the game as well. I realized that my career is going by, and…I want to enjoy it all.” We’ve been so impressed with how she’s taken everything in stride and can’t wait to see what more is in store.

🧩 Most Irreplaceable: Barbra Banda (Orlando Pride)

After signing for Orlando in 2024, Barbra Banda wasted no time proving herself, helping the Pride win both the NWSL Shield and Championship in her debut season. Her 2025 campaign was cut short by injury, but she’s had an amazing start to this season with two braces in May, 11 goals (and counting) to lead the Golden Boot race, and a spot in the Best XI every single month so far. The Pride look lost without her, while other teams have found ways to adapt when key players have been unavailable thanks to their attacking depth (shout-out to KC Current striker Temwa Chawinga who was neck and neck in this category). Banda remains irreplaceable and the focal point of Orlando’s attack (not to mention the club’s second all-time scorer behind Brazilian legend Marta) with her pace, power, and finishing ability. It was sad to see the apparent non‑contact injury she suffered against Bay FC right before the break (such a gut punch for the Pride) and everyone is hoping she’s on the mend soon.

🚀 Best Rookie: Lia Godfrey (San Diego Wave)

This was perhaps our toughest call and we’d like to give honorable-mention shout-outs to Gotham’s Jordynn Dudley and Houston’s Kat Rader, who have both impressed in their first seasons in the NWSL. But the award ultimately goes to 24-year-old San Diego midfielder Lia Godfrey, who is playing out of her mind. With four goals and three assists, and a near‑telepathic connection with teammates like Dudinha, she’s operating with a maturity well beyond her years. We look forward to the Virginia alum continuing to come into her own and grow more this season.

🧤 Clutch Goalkeeper Award: Ann-Katrin Berger (Gotham FC)

Off the heels of finishing runner-up for the Ballon d’Or 2025 Women’s Yashin Trophy, Gotham’s goalkeeper has picked up right where she left off. While the Bats have struggled to find goals this season, they’ve had no such issues defending at the other end of the pitch. Ann-Katrin Berger has been a steadfast force in goal, delivering seven clean sheets in 10 matches and conceding just five goals total. She’s already registered 22 saves in 2026, reinforcing her status as one of the league’s most reliable shot‑stoppers—even if her fancy footwork sometimes causes anxiety for her teammates and supporters.

🧱 Brick Wall Award: Kate Del Fava (Utah Royals)

We had to acknowledge the workhorse efforts of center back Kate Del Fava, who is holding down the Royals backline. This season, she has taken her game to another level—named to the May Best XI, contributing 16 tackles and 21 interceptions so far, and keeping five clean sheets. Inside the locker room, teammates and coaches describe her as the backbone of the Royals’ defensive unit. A back‑to‑back NWSL Iron Woman in 2024 and 2025, Del Fava looks poised to play every minute again this year, delivering the same reliability and quiet dominance that make her indispensable.

💃 Best Tunnel Fit: Jaedyn Shaw (Gotham FC)

This year, Jaedyn Shaw has found her footing both on the field for Gotham FC and off in terms of personal style—and even better when that fit comes with added cultural significance. In April for AAPI Heritage Month, Shaw—the first Vietnamese American to play for the U.S. Women’s national team—collaborated with Asian streetwear and heritage fashion brand LỰU ĐẠN on a fiery look to express herself through fashion and celebrate her roots.

🌟 Biggest Glow-up: Utah Royals (Yes, ALL of them)

Who would have thought that midway through the season, one of the league’s most wild success stories would be the Royals on a 10‑game unbeaten streak? Despite opening with losses to the KC Current and the Denver Summit, they’ve been on an absolute tear and are, without a doubt, the most exciting glow‑up this year. Sitting second in the table with a game in hand, the Royals entered the break looking every bit like a contender thanks to leaders Mina Tanaka pulling the strings in midfield, Kate Del Fava anchoring the back line, and Cloé Lacasse delivering four goals and four assists after coming back from an ACL tear. If they can sustain this rhythm and chemistry, they’ll be a team to watch down the final stretch.

🔒 Most Potential to Unlock: Riley Tiernan (Angel City FC)

Despite having a standout rookie season, Riley Tiernan has struggled to have the same impact in her sophomore year with coach Alexander Straus using her out wide, opting for Icelandic international Sveindís Jónsdóttir in the striker role instead. The ceiling is still sky‑high. After all, last year, the New Jersey native led her team and all rookies in scoring and was tied for sixth in the league. And with Angel City hunting for a spark in the second half of their season, they could really use Tiernan’s attacking instinct (which she displayed at the start of the season), those sharp cut‑backs, and a little bit of the feistiness that made her impossible to ignore as a debutante.

👀 Most Underrated: Hal Hershfelt (Washington Spirit)

Hal Hershfelt remains one of the most underrated defensive midfielders in the league. For the Spirit, she’s been everywhere this season: 12 tackles, 23 aerial duels won, and a level of consistency that rarely receives headlines. She’s also expanded her toolkit this year, proving she can play both defensive midfielder and center back when needed (as she did for the USWNT), looking calm on the ball, smart in her positioning, and eager to sniff out danger. Keep an eye on her—there’s a little Julie Ertz energy in the way she’s evolving, including coming in clutch in the attack as well.

🔥 Standout Player: Ashley Sanchez (North Carolina Courage)

Last but not least, our Standout Player of the Season (so far) goes to Ashley Sanchez, who has finally found her groove with North Carolina. With some of the best 1v1 dribbling in the league, she’s delivered seven goals (tied for second in the Golden Boot race) and one assist in 11 appearances, including her first NWSL career brace on opening day. She’s been a constant spark for the Courage and deserves another look from the USWNT—not just because of her chemistry with former teammate Trinity Rodman, but also because she’s in peak form, reads the game at an elite level, and is uniquely positioned to bridge the gap between rising midfield talent and veteran experience as World Cup qualifiers approach.

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USWNT chases redemption vs. Brazil 🇺🇸

Megan Swanick — Tue, 09 Jun 2026 10:00:00 +0000

Happy Tuesday, TWG readers!

It was a tough weekend for USWNT fans as we watched Emma Hayes’ squad fall 2-1 to Brazil on Saturday night. The hosts brought it to us with their speed, aggression, and tenacity – definitely asking a lot of questions of the U.S. I’m glad we have a rematch today and am excited to see the response. Ali Riley and I will be going live right at the final whistle, so join us then! 🇺🇲

We have a unique schedule dropping this week. Yesterday, we released a brand-new “Teaming Up” with Olympic Gold-medal gymnast Shawn Johnson East. We’ll have “Good Vibes” with a special guest co-host on Thursday, and finally cap off the week on Friday with Angel City’s Claire Emslie on “Friendlies.” 🤸

We’ve also championed Where Football Lives a lot lately for their efforts in highlighting the ways in which climate change is impacting the game we all love. Over the weekend, they broke an official Guinness World Record, uniting thousands of soccer fans across the U.S., Mexico, Canada, Brazil, Ireland, and the U.K. to juggle a soccer ball in unison for 10 seconds. Congrats, and we can’t wait to feature the organization on the podcast soon! 🎙️

MiB is hitting the road this week as the 2026 World Cup kicks off. We’re offering daily morning previews, nightly match recaps, and a 10-stop Match Day Live! Tour in host cities across the country with special guests (yes, you may even see me, Lindsey and Becky along the way!) The first show is this Friday, June 12 in L.A. with Rog and Rob Mac (“It’s Always Sunny,” “Welcome to Wrexham”) before the USMNT faces off against Paraguay. ⚽

Thanks for being here!

Love,
Sam

P.S. Tobin and Press showed up and showed out with a couple of WNBA royalty. The crossover we never knew we needed. 🤩

P.P.S. If you’re excited for the World Cup and looking for what to wear this summer, check out the Go Go USA! collection. Grab your merch and let’s get ready for the summer of soccer! 😎

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Bested by Brazil, USWNT Searches for Answers 🇺🇸

Photo courtesy of U.S. Soccer

Saturday in São Paulo, the USWNT fell 2-1 to Brazil in the first of two vital tests against next year’s World Cup hosts. In front of a boisterous Brazilian crowd of more than 31,000 fans, the Americans were put to the test as the home side’s relentless intensity and physicality challenged the four-time world champions who were without veterans Naomi Girma, Sam Coffey, and Catarina Macario.

In an early boost for the Americans, forward Sophia Wilson scored her 25th international goal – and her first since 2024 – in the second minute of the match. However, the joy was short-lived as Brazil responded immediately, slicing through the USWNT midfield (sorely missing Coffey) and stretching apart an uncharacteristically disjointed backline. Brazil’s Bia Zaneratto (formerly of KC Current) put on a show with her technical skills and physical prowess, as she and her teammates won possession nine times in their attacking third – the most of any team against the U.S. in the last eight years.

Starting the comeback in the 11th minute, Brazil’s Taina Maranhão, slipped in behind Emily Fox and headed home the equalizer. Then, minutes later, Zaneratto led a blistering counterattack, culminating with a give-and-go with San Diego Wave forward Dudinha, which Zaneratto rifled past goalkeeper Mandy McGlynn. While second-half subs including Michelle Cooper and Avery Patterson injected pace and physicality, the team failed to find the back of the net. The USWNT’s response to this defeat will be telling. We dare you not to lock in after watching Emma Hayes’ post-match pep talk.

Sam’s Take 🗣️: I loved listening to this from Emma. She hits all the points the team needs to hear. We came to Brazil for a reason. This was a difficult environment, it’s why we train the way we do, and we've got another chance to go again. To the point, honest, and motivating all at the same time. It's hard to imagine USWNT training raising a level, but after that game, I trust the team will keep pushing for more from themselves.

Next up: The USWNT is off to Fortaleza for a rematch vs. Brazil at Arena Castelão (TONIGHT at 8:30 p.m. ET on TNT/HBO Max/Peacock). And all eyes will be on Mallory Swanson – the final member of Triple Espresso awaiting her return. 👀

10 Legendary Moments in Women’s World Cup History 🔥

We're excited for the men’s World Cup to kick off in a few days, especially after seeing men’s and women’s national teams unite for a special send-off. And, even better, every kickoff means we are that much closer to the 2027 women’s World Cup next summer! In that spirit, let’s revisit 10 defining moments from previous tournaments.

1. World Record Shattered at 1991 Women’s World Cup 🏆

The first women’s World Cup was historic, not least because it was called the “First FIFA World Championship for Women's Football for the M&M's Cup.” Yes, seriously. Michelle Akers powered the U.S. to a win in the final, and set a tournament record with five goals in the opener, a feat only matched by Alex Morgan in 2019.

2. 1999 USWNT vs. China Shootout at the Rose Bowl 🏟️

No list is complete without mention of Brandi Chastain and her triumphant, sports-bra-clad celebration after the U.S beat China in a penalty shootout to win the 1999 World Cup. The penalties heard ‘round the world inspired a generation of women’s soccer players, including the Mewis sisters.

Sam’s Take 🗣️: I often get asked what made me fall in love with soccer, and I always point to this moment. This was when I knew I wanted to play at the highest level and that it was possible for someone like me to win the World Cup. When I reflect on my own career and journey, it all points back to 1999.

3. Marta Captures Golden Boot at 2007 World Cup 🇧🇷

Brazil has yet to win a World Cup (who knows what next summer will bring 👀), but they’ve been a dynamic threat for years. Brazil’s best-ever finish came in 2007, when they reached the final and Marta dominated the tournament, securing the Golden Boot with seven goals, including this stroke of brilliance.

4. Wambach Saves USWNT at the Death in 2011 Quarterfinals 🤯

With the U.S. seconds from elimination, all-time top scorer Abby Wambach crashed the box, equalizing with a sensational 122nd-minute header against Brazil to send the game to penalties and ultimately the U.S. to the semi-final. The hail mary assist from Megan Rapinoe is just as glorious as the goal.

5. Japan’s 2011 Gold-Medal Win Amidst Tragedy Back Home 🇯🇵

Later in that same tournament, after a 2-2 deadlock with the U.S., Saki Kumagai stepped up and buried a penalty past Hope Solo to seal Japan’s first and only World Cup trophy. The victory arrived only four months after a tsunami killed almost 20,000 citizens, bringing a rare moment of hope to a nation in mourning.

6. Carli Lloyd’s Hat-Trick at the 2015 World Cup Final 🎩

Four years after the USWNT lost to Japan in the final, the U.S. had their revenge with a decisive 5-2 victory, featuring Carli Lloyd’s jaw-dropping mastery. Lloyd’s trio of goals took 16 minutes to collect, marking the fastest in World Cup history and included one from half-field.

7. USA vs. England: 2019 Semifinal Rekindles a Revolutionary Rivalry 🫖

It’s too hard to pick one moment, so the entire U.S. vs. England semi-final in Lyon must earn a spot. From Christen Press’ opening goal and celebration in honor of her mom, to Alex Morgan’s goal and infamous tea-sip, and Alyssa Naeher’s pivotal penalty stop, this testy bout had it all.

8. Fans Around the World Support USWNT’s Fight for Equal Pay 💸

On International Women's Day, 28 USWNT players filed a landmark gender discrimination lawsuit against U.S. Soccer mere months before the 2019 World Cup. They went on to win the tournament, with chants of “Equal Pay” echoing from the stands, and secured a breakthrough deal for fair compensation in 2022.

9. Australia & France’s Electric Penalty Shootout at 2023 World Cup ⚡️

Despite entering as underdogs, the Matildas beat France in a wild 7–6 penalty shootout following 120 scoreless minutes in Brisbane. With the home crowd on a razor’s edge, the match set a record with 20 penalties, complete with retakes, shots off the post, and heroic saves, before the hosts silenced the doubters.

10. Spain’s First-Ever World Cup Win Shakes Up the Global Order 🇪🇸

The 2023 World Cup marked the start of a new era in women’s football as giants of the game, including the U.S., Germany, and Brazil, crashed out early. With a narrow 1-0 win over England in the final, Spain secured their first World Cup trophy and first major international title – Vamos! The women’s game has never been more competitive, and we can’t wait for next summer!

Write us at womensgamemib@meninblazers.com to let us know your favorite moment or any others that resonated with you!

Twists and Turns in Race for World Cup Qualification 😵‍💫

Photo by Rafa Babot/Getty

Spain 🇪🇸 4-0 England 🏴󠁧󠁢󠁥󠁮󠁧󠁿

After losing 1-0 to the Lionesses in April, Spain went on a four-goal revenge tour at the Estadi Mallorca Son Moix last Friday. The world champions delivered a drubbing, with midfielder Patri opening the scoring. Alexia Putellas notched two goals, the second of which was initially saved off the line by defender Lucy Bronze, only for confusion at the back to allow a rebound by La Reina. Then, three-time Ballon d’Or winner Aitana Bonmatí came off the bench to set up attacker Claudia Pina for the fourth goal just two minutes after subbing in.

While England missed their captain Leah Williamson, who was absent due to a hamstring injury, this result will lead to some hard questions asked, especially of the team’s backline. The loss marks England’s first in a World Cup qualifier since 2002, their heaviest defeat since 2009, and their worst of the Wiegman era.

More: Here’s why it’s not time to panic, even if Spain look set to secure automatic qualification while England will likely need to navigate the playoffs.

Republic of Ireland 🇮🇪 3-2 Netherlands 🇳🇱

Meanwhile, on a cold, rainy night in Cork, Ireland’s 2023 World Cup debutantes stunned the Dutch, who were top of the group, to revive their chances of a guaranteed World Cup spot. San Diego-born Kyra Carusa gave the Girls in Green an early lead until a late series of goals (including a brilliant finish from Ireland’s Abbie Larkin) saw them tied 2-2 with time dwindling. A 90th‑minute dagger from substitute Amber Barrett – plus some gritty defending after a red card reduced them to 10 – secured Ireland all three points, setting them up for a winner-takes-all showdown in Grenoble. If they beat France, the group of death’s lowest-seeded team will be assured a direct path to qualify.

Plus: Germany also beat Norway 2-0 (check out the first international goal from Portland Thorns defender Marie Müller) to secure automatic qualification for their 10th World Cup and become the first UEFA team to book their place. 🇩🇪

Upcoming Games to Get Excited About 🗓️

Conmebol Women’s Nations League Final Matchday 🌎 (TONIGHT, 7 p.m. ET)

In the inaugural South American Nations League, Colombia and Argentina earned automatic World Cup qualification on Friday. There are two remaining playoff spots, with four teams vying to keep their World Cup dream alive including: Ecuador (vs. Argentina, 7 p.m. ET, FSP), Venezuela (vs. Uruguay, 7 p.m. ET), Paraguay (vs. Colombia, 7 p.m. ET, FS2) and Peru (vs. Bolivia, 7 p.m. ET).

USMNT 🇺🇸 vs. Paraguay 🇵🇾 (Friday, 9 p.m. ET, FOX)

Following a close friendly against Germany in which they lost 2-1 and Antonee “Jedi” Robinson scored this rocket and did a backflip to boot, the USA’s World Cup co-hosts start their campaign in L.A. this Friday against Paraguay, who they beat 2-1 in a friendly last November. We’ll be watching!

For more men's World Cup updates sent straight to your inbox throughout the tournament, subscribe to the Men in Blazers newsletter here.

News & Notes 🗞️

The NWSL Championship is about to get rowdy! Check out which city will host the title-deciding match in November.
Could Alexia Putellas be bound for the Women’s Super League? After 14 years at Barça, the legendary midfielder has reportedly agreed to personal terms with London City Lionesses.
The players have spoken! See which WSL footballers stood out from the pack, landing on the shortlist for this year’s PFA Awards, including USWNT’s Alyssa Thompson.
If you can believe it, just 6% of sports science research focuses on women. A new health initiative aims to close that gap at last.
Investment is key, and the backing of Actonians Women FC by McCaffrey Football Investment Group signals real ambition as the club sets its sights on climbing to Tier 3 and beyond.

It’s TWG Trivia Time 🤔

This week’s question:

We’ll select a winner and reach out to make sure you receive your TWG patch.

Last week’s answer: Helping to secure Brazil’s best-ever finish in a Women’s World Cup, which Brazilian player scored a brace in the 2007 semifinal vs. the USWNT to achieve a 4-0 victory? And the correct answer was: B) Marta – but of course! 💁‍♀️

Congrats to Catelynn Maloney, who was the first person to respond with the correct answer. Catelynn, your TWG patch is on its way! 💌

Moment of Joy 🤸

Anna Writes: Hi Sam & Kristie! My name is Anna from Cincinnati (hometown of Rose Lavelle, woohoo!). I recently had my first baby, and it has been so sweet and fun watching my sister interact with her – it has brought us closer than ever! Listening to you all talk about Kristie and Jagger’s most recent trip to Vermont made me curious. Now that Kristie is a mom, how has your dynamic changed as sisters? Has entering your mom/aunt era together brought out a different side of your relationship? THANK YOU!! I absolutely love your podcast and love to listen while I’m nap-trapped. 🥰

Sam Writes: Hi Anna, First off, congrats on becoming a new mom for the first time! It’s been so fun getting to see a new side of Kristie since she’s become one too. She’s still as hilarious and fun as ever, but now I get to watch her and Sam channel all that wild energy into my nephew Jagger, which is the sweetest thing.

I am also fully embracing my auntie era… both when it comes to Jagger, and now with Becky and Lynn’s kids too. Seeing the world through my nephew’s eyes, makes me appreciate the little moments (even if the cost is having that horse song stuck in my head for eternity). Despite the distance, we’ve made it work, and it’s led to some truly amazing trips and fun times hosting Kristie and Jagger in Vermont. I am so happy for their family and excited to make more special memories together, especially ones where we get to introduce Jagger to our favorite sport. <3

Love,
Sam

📝 Want to be featured in next week’s TWG newsletter? Send Sam an email! All your questions, comments, and roast chicken recipes can be sent to womensgamemib@meninblazers.com

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USWNT Heads to Brazil for a Massive Test 🇺🇸

Megan Swanick — Tue, 02 Jun 2026 10:00:00 +0000

Happy Tuesday, TWG readers!

And happy Pride Month! 🏳️‍🌈🏳️‍⚧️ It was incredible to see all the amazing tifos this weekend from supporters sections around the league. I also feel like we are witnessing greatness from so many teams and players right now… especially from stars like Barbra Banda, Temwa Chawinga, and Ashley Sanchez. The NWSL is heading into a month-long break and these athletes have earned some rest! 😌

We are celebrating Pride Month here at TWG with a powerful “Teaming Up” episode about trans rights in sports, featuring Athlete Ally Vice President of Research, Dr. Anna Baeth. Make sure to check that out, as well as her book “Fair Game: Trans Athletes and the Future of Sports” for a deep dive. Today on “Good Vibes,” Becky and I break down the USWNT roster ahead of back-to-back matches against Brazil, and later this week on “Friendlies,” we’ll be joined by Orlando Pride midfielder and Brazil international Angelina, who will help us dig into the upcoming games – a tough test for both squads ahead of the World Cup next summer. Plus, I’ll be going live after the match on Saturday night with friend of the pod Meredith Speck, so be sure to tune in right at the final whistle! 🎙️

I’ve also been watching the USMNT docuseries, “Us Against the World,” and I have to admit, it’s getting me really excited for the men’s World Cup. I only know a handful of players but I want to cheer them on this summer, and I am really enjoying the show. I’ve also been listening to Rog and USMNT legend Clint Demspey on “The Deuce,” and I’m feeling more prepared every day! Let me know how you’re feeling about the World Cup – Are you excited? Interested? Ignoring it? I’d love to hear from you! Write me an email at womensgamemib@meninblazers.com. 🏆

Thanks for tuning in!

Love,
Sam

P.S. With the 2026 World Cup right around the corner, Alex Morgan is out here repping the red, white and blue – and we’re giving the jersey four stars. 😉

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USWNT Visit Brazil in High-Stakes Double Header 🇺🇸🇧🇷

With the 2027 World Cup just over a year away, the four-time world champions are ramping up their preparations and heading to Sāo Paulo and Fortaleza, Brazil for back‑to‑back showdowns against the host nation.

While the return of Mallory Swanson – the final member of the formidable “Triple Espresso” – is capturing all the headlines, here are some additional takeaways from Emma Hayes’ 26-player roster drop, which features a few notable injuries, snubs and bubble players who will look to make their case for World Cup consideration:

Roster Challenges and a Controversial Omission: With Concacaf World Cup-qualifying this November, Hayes is clearly honing in on her preferred XI, evidenced by a roster with no uncapped players. However, she’ll be missing multiple stalwarts this camp. Centerback Naomi Girma (Chelsea) continues to recover from a calf injury, while Sam Coffey (Manchester City), recently underwent knee surgery. Luckily, Rose Lavelle (Gotham) and Olivia Moultrie (Portland Thorns) – both coming off injuries – are fit enough to make the trip to Brazil.

The biggest talking point, however, is the notable omission of North Carolina’s Ashley Sanchez, despite a standout start to the season with seven goals and one assist across 11 games. Speaking to the controversy of leaving out a player tied for second in the Golden Boot race, Hayes explained that Sanchez has been deployed primarily as a winger rather than a midfielder for the Courage. That role places her in direct competition with Swanson and Alyssa Thompson (Chelsea), whom she sadly falls behind in the pecking order, causing her to miss out on selection.

Sam’s Take 🗣️: I'm not sure I agree with Hayes’ rationale. Sanchez can play anywhere, and I think her form warrants a call-in. Not only has she been more productive than anyone else on the roster, she's playing consistently and is fully healthy. Feels like a big miss to me.

Bubble Players Get a Big Chance: With leaders like Girma and Coffey missing, it’s a real opportunity for players on the periphery to make their case. For Washington Spirit’s Tara Rudd and Kansas City’s Croix Bethune – both left off April’s roster – this is their time to impress Hayes and force difficult decisions as she narrows down her World Cup squad. Another bubble player earning a call-up is 20‑year‑old Riley Jackson (North Carolina Courage), as a reinforcement for Claire Hutton (Bay FC) in Coffey’s absence. Fresh off wearing the captain’s armband vs. Japan, Hutton will now be tasked with anchoring the defensive midfield against a fierce Brazilian attack, with Jackson providing vital depth.

The Cat Conundrum: And then there’s the Catarina Macario of it all. She made the jump from Chelsea to San Diego over two months ago in a record-breaking deal, but has sadly yet to make her debut for the Wave due to a persistent heel injury. The question on everyone’s mind: Will last year’s USWNT top scorer be fit for qualifiers in the fall…and ultimately the World Cup?

Plus: To face the U.S., Brazil named a roster with a spate of rising talents and legendary veterans (including the one and only Marta), but notably left out Geyse, fresh off helping Club América win the Concacaf W Champions Cup title.

More: Watch USWNT centerback Tierna Davidson talk about the opportunity of playing against the 🐐, who could lead her country in next summer’s World Cup.

NWSL: Last Matchday Before the Break 🌟

The NWSL wrapped matchweek 10 over the weekend with some truly mesmerizing moments – from Pride Month celebrations kicking off, to Barbra Banda’s third brace of the season for Orlando, to Gotham rookie Jordynn Dudley’s stunning left-footed winner vs. Houston which turned heads across the league.

With San Diego currently sitting atop the table, the NWSL pauses for a month‑long hiatus, including a week-long CBA-mandated break and the group stage of the men’s World Cup. With the regular season resuming July 3 (keep tuning into the pod to get your TWG fix!), we’re taking stock of the NWSL standings and a few trends from the first half of the season:

🔥 Utah Royals’ Unexpected Dominance: After finishing the last two seasons in 11th and 12th place, Utah is soaring in 2026 with a 10-match unbeaten streak after tying the Thorns 2-2 in Portland with forwards Kiana Palacios and Cloé Lacasse finding the back of the net. Saturday’s top-of-the-table clash saw the Royals secure a point against the three-time NWSL champions after Sophia Wilson converted from the penalty spot in stoppage time, marking her fifth goal of the season and second in as many games.
📈 The Washington Spirit and Kansas City Current Find Their Way: Despite slow starts to the season, both sides have made resurgences to claw back points and climb the table. And while the Spirit fell to Club América in the Concacaf W Champions Cup final, they returned to winning ways in the NWSL in front of another sold-out crowd at rowdy Audi with a dominant 2-1 win against Seattle. Meanwhile, Kansas City’s two-time NWSL MVP Temwa Chawinga continues to serve as practically a cheat-code with seven goals and two assists in eight games for the 2025 Shield winners. Saturday at CPKC Stadium, Chawinga pounced on a rebound from Bethune’s strike to score the decisive goal in a 1-0 win over the Boston Legacy. With the win, the Current enter the break in sixth place, tied on points with fourth-place Spirit and fifth-place Gotham, in a promising position that would’ve seemed far out of reach back in March.
🥴 Angel City Stumbles Ahead of the Break: While ACFC began their fifth season brimming with hope after a four-game winning streak, that early promise has faded. Key injuries to forward Sveindís Jónsdóttir, midfielder Hina Sugita and defender Savy King have stalled them, leading to a disappointing 4-1-6 record so far this season. Over the weekend, they slipped to 12th after conceding – yet again – in the final stretch with North Carolina breaking the deadlock in the 78th minute. The Courage ultimately sealed a 2-1 win thanks to a clinical strike from Manaka Matsukubo to mark her fifth goal of the year. Angel City enter the break with three defeats in their last five games, looking to regroup and reignite the spark that powered their early-season run.

Elsewhere in the World 🌎

One Last Bow for La Reina in 2-1 Win vs. Real Sociedad 👑

Two-time Ballon d’Or winner and four-time UWCL champion Alexia Putellas has defined Barcelona Femení and inspired a generation of footballers who witnessed La Blaugrana soar to the top of the women’s football world. But the longtime mainstay has revealed that, after 14 storied years in Catalonia, she is finally moving on (full disclosure, her announcement video will make you cry) with links to London City Lionesses and the NWSL.

After helping her team secure the quadruple, the 32-year-old captain played her final game for Barça against Real Sociedad, which they won 2-1, and provided a moment of pure poetry for Culers around the world when she assisted Aitana Bonmatí in her first goal back from injury.

Manchester City Capture FA Cup Glory with 4-0 Win Over Brighton 🩵💙

At the end of their WSL title-winning season, Man City secured a domestic double after trouncing the Seagulls at Wembley to lift their fourth FA Cup title. While Brighton outplayed City for the majority of the first half, it was WSL top scorer Bunny Shaw, fresh off signing a new contract after weeks of uncertainty, who opened the scoring in front of 43,917 fans at Wembley. Despite a handful of chances from Brighton (who were competing for the club’s first major trophy in their first FA Cup final), City captain Alex Greenwood – who also assisted Shaw’s goal – made it 2-0 before the half off of a pinpoint freekick. Then, Aoba Fujino and Vivianne Miedema both came off the bench to notch two more in the final 45, with Miedema marking her first game and goal for the club since March 28 when she stepped away to care for her ill mother.

Sam’s Take 🗣️: So thrilled for my former club, Man City, to secure the double and win the FA Cup this weekend. I played with Alex Greenwood while I was there, and seeing her stick it out with this club has been nothing short of inspiring. What a player, what a leader, and what a free kick! Congrats, City!

Heaps Ends Lyonnes’ Run with 5-0 Victory to Win Première Ligue 💫

One week after an emotional second-place finish in the 2026 Champions League final in which Lyonnes fell to Barcelona, USWNT captain Lindsey Heaps secured her 10th trophy with the club – alongside fellow American Lily Yohannes who collected her first French Champion title. Thanks to a brace from Tabitha Chawinga and a hat trick from Melchie Dumornay, Lyonnes ended the year with a 5-0 win over Paris FC to wrap up the Arkema Première Ligue title and mark another domestic treble. Read Sam’s emotional tribute to Heaps as the trailblazing American prepares to close this chapter and join Denver Summit FC.

Chaos Reigns as Chelsea Crowned World Sevens Champions 🌪️

Chelsea won the third World Sevens title with a wild 6-5 final win against Manchester United, with Aggie Beever-Jones delivering a stunning hat trick, finishing as the tournament’s top scorer, and helping the Blues to $500,000 in prize money (down significantly from $1.5 million allocated in the first edition). The all‑England, eight‑team WSL showcase, which stayed true to its trademark lovable chaos, was pure vibes with skittles flying, Everton giving “birth” to a football, and Chelsea reenacting the infamous Alyssa Thompson hair‑pull from the UWCL semifinal.

Lexington SC Secure USL Super League Shield and Championship 🏆

In a stunning turnaround, Lexington SC – bottom of the table in their inaugural season – are officially the second-ever champions of the USL Super League after defeating Carolina Ascent 3-1 in Saturday’s final. In front of 7,715 fans at Lexington’s home ground, the hosts drew level in regulation before scoring twice in extra time to clinch the title. It was an emotional end to a historic year that saw the Gals in Green collect the Shield after a first-place finish with 53 points before back-to-back wins in the playoffs to make it a double. Check out the celebrations, including their coach breakdancing to “Dancing Queen.”

Upcoming Games to Get Excited About 🗓️

International Friendlies

Brazil 🇧🇷 vs. USWNT 🇺🇸 - June 6 (5:30 pm ET) and June 9 (8:30 p.m. ET) (TBS, HBO Max, Peacock)

All eyes will be on the return of “Triple Espresso,” though Emma Hayes will most likely opt to integrate Mallory Swanson slowly after coming back from maternity leave. As with previous windows, expect Hayes to make plenty of rotation to her squad as she continues to prepare her players for a major tournament challenge.

FIFA Women's World Cup Qualifying Matches

Republic of Ireland 🇮🇪 vs. Netherlands 🇳🇱 (Friday, 2:30 p.m. ET)

In the toughest group of UEFA World Cup-qualifying, third-place Republic of Ireland host the first-place Dutch in Cork for the penultimate matchday. With only two points separating the sides, and France between them in second, an Irish upset could plausibly see them leapfrog into first. Either way, the 2023 debutants are competing to keep their qualification chances alive with a top-three finish. A first‑place result, meanwhile, would send either team straight to the tournament, bypassing the playoff gauntlet entirely.

Spain 🇪🇸 vs. England 🏴󠁧󠁢󠁥󠁮󠁧󠁿 (Friday, 3 p.m. ET)

After beating the reigning World Champions at Wembley in April, England’s Lionesses head to Spain to see if they can seal their first-place finish in Group A3. With home advantage on their side, a Barcelona-heavy squad fresh off their latest Champions League victory and the recent return of three-time Ballon d’Or winner Aitana Bonmatí will hope to stymie their efforts.

News & Notes 🗞️

Now that two-time Ballon d’Or winner Alexia Putellas has announced she’s departing childhood club Barcelona, could she really swap Barça for London City Lionesses? All bets are off when Michelle Kang gets involved.
CBS has finalized a landmark four‑year deal to broadcast the WSL, featuring 183 matches per season on Paramount+, with one match each week on CBS Sports and additional select games airing on CBS Sports Golazo Network.
“We’ve got McCabe. Katie McCabe. I just don’t think you understaaand.” 🎶 In a case of WSL left-back musical chairs, with the impending arrival of Ona Batlle (Barça) to Arsenal, former Arsenal defender Katie McCabe has officially joined fierce rival Chelsea, while Blues left-back Niamh Charles is expected to sign for Manchester City. Full‑tilt rivalry. Spiraling supporters. Peak league drama.

It’s TWG Trivia Time 🤔

This week’s question:

We’ll select a winner and reach out to make sure you receive your TWG patch.

Last week’s answer: What team did Golden Boot winner Ewa Pajor score her first goal against in this season’s Champions League campaign? The correct answer is Bayern Munich, against which Pajor bagged a brace.

Congrats to Lily Blakeman, who was the first person to respond with the correct answer. Lily, your TWG patch is on its way! 💌

Moment of Joy 🤸

Sarah writes: Hello Sam, Becky and Lynn (when you return!), love the pod. I have been wondering about the pressure and challenge of having “Triple Espresso” return for Alyssa Thompson. I feel like she has just put her head down and worked, playing so well, and has positioned herself to be such an impact player. However, the fans LOVE LOVE LOVE Trinity, Sophia and Mal, and they are CLEARLY super talented. Is that a dynamic that is just tricky from the outside, or does that impact the team, relationships, etc.? Always lots of talk about the good problem of too much talent on the U.S. team – this seems particularly tricky with the name and implications of almost a clique on the team.

Hot dog for life,
Sarah

Sam writes: Hi Sarah! Thank you for listening to the pod and writing in with your question. I have been so impressed with Alyssa Thompson and all the progress she’s made with Chelsea and the USWNT – her confidence has only grown each camp, and her connection with her sister Gisele is a real bright spot.

With Mal coming back, there’s naturally going to be healthy competition on the left wing. While Mal is a clinical veteran with elite finishing capability, Alyssa brings extraordinary pace and directness that changes games. That push‑and‑pull is exactly what strengthens a team.

During my playing days when I was competing with Lindsey in the midfield, that friendly competition made me stronger. It’s less about cliques and more about raising the collective level. Everyone wants to start, but the best teams have players who embrace whatever role when called. Sonnett is the perfect example of someone who exemplifies that mentality. Be it alternate, super sub, or starter, she always puts the team first. And I know that Mal and Alyssa will too. <3

Love,
Sam

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A Curse-Lifting Champions League Title 🏆

Megan Swanick — Tue, 26 May 2026 10:00:00 +0000

Happy Tuesday, TWG readers!

We had a very rainy weekend here in Vermont, which meant lots of time to watch soccer. The Champions League final was a goalfest… but not in the way I was anticipating! Huge congrats to Barcelona, who defeated Lyonnes 4-0 after a first half that had me convinced the trophy was heading to France. I just couldn’t get over the way Barça stayed in the match, took their chances, and eventually held the game in the palm of their hands. Turns out Becky was right in her prediction, as usual. Catch our live reaction to the game, and see how it all unfolded. 🇪🇸

This week’s “Good Vibes” is absolutely packed – we’re breaking down the latest from the NWSL, CONCACAF W Champions Cup, and WSL promotion and relegation battles, then wrapping it all up with World Sevens. Like I said, SO much soccer. On Thursday, Gotham defender Tierna Davidson also joins us on “Friendlies” to preview the USWNT’s upcoming games against Brazil. Be sure to tune in on YouTube or wherever you get your podcasts. 🎙️

Also, I recently had the opportunity to connect with the folks at Where Football Lives, an organization fighting to protect soccer pitches and communities most impacted by climate change. On Saturday, June 6 at 12:30 p.m. ET (9:30 a.m. PT), they’ll be attempting to beat an official Guinness World Record for the most people simultaneously juggling a football, with over 11,000 people already registered across 46 locations worldwide. Registration is just $15, with a portion of the proceeds going directly to support grassroots soccer fields facing the effects of extreme weather. It's a chance to get outside, be a part of something global, and support an incredible cause that keeps the game alive for future generations. 🤝

And if you’re curious about the real‑world impact climate change is having on sports, check out the interview we did with Professor Radley Horton from Columbia’s Climate School last year. It’s a great deep dive into what’s at stake. 🌎

Thank you all for being here, and caring about this game as much as we do! 🫶

Love,
Sam

P.S. This record-signing marked her first club goal with a new tattoo, while her opponent celebrated not being immortalized in ink. 🫣

TWG HQ Bulletin Board 📢

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Barça Defeat Lyonnes 4-0 to Restore European Reign 🇪🇸

A year after a surprise defeat to Arsenal in the 2025 UWCL final, the Catalan giants are back on top. Thanks to braces from Polish striker Ewa Pajor and forward Salma Paralluelo, Barcelona claimed their fourth European title with a 4-0 win over Lyonnes in Oslo. Read on for a breakdown of all the action:

🫠 Close Calls: Starting the game strong, the eight-time champions used a relentless press to force Barça to rely on counter attacks. While the French front line had several chances in the final third, Blaugrana goalkeeper Cata Coll’s herculean efforts kept them at bay. In the 14th minute, USWNT captain Lindsey Heaps buried a rebound off a set piece, only for the football gods to intervene cruelly, ruling it offside for Lyonnes.

Sam’s Take 🗣️: This moment finally settled a debate I've been having with myself for years. After celebrating Lindsey's goal, then seeing it called back, I've decided I'm out on VAR. Too much heartbreak. (Don't hold me to this.)

🪄 A Curse Lifted: Meanwhile, Barça’s Pajor entered the match, having previously reached five UWCL finals and lost all of them, with three of those heartbreaks delivered by Lyonnes to rub salt in the wound. It was only fitting then that she would be the hero on the day, shattering the deadlock in the 55th minute before doubling her tally. Pajor finished the campaign with 11 UWCL goals – surpassing Arsenal’s Alessia Russo to win the Golden Boot. Pajor not only broke the Champions League final curse that seemed to follow her for years, but also brought an end to the infamous Golden Boot streak that’s left every top scorer since 2022 without a trophy.

Also dominant in attack, Paralluelo helped Pajor exorcise her demons, picking up a loose ball in the 90th minute and burying a left-footed banger. Shortly after, Barça countered once more, showcasing their excellent link-up, with the Spanish left-winger ultimately chipping goalkeeper Christiane Endler to finish the game 4-0.

💔 Roster Uncertainty & Emotional Farewells: While Barça celebrated their victory in front of 24,258 fans, the largest crowd ever assembled for a women’s football game in Norway, the aftermath was bittersweet. Paralluelo, captain Alexia Putellas, and defender Ona Batlle’s contracts all expire in the summer, raising the possibility that this was their final match for the club. At the same time, it marks the Champions League swan song for Heaps, who scored in Lyonnes’ 2022 UWCL victory and is a trailblazer for U.S. players in Europe. She’ll take part in one last playoff match against Paris FC before returning home to Colorado to join Denver Summit FC.

USWNT Heads to Brazil for a Pivotal Test 🇺🇸🇧🇷

"We need more games in which every fan in the stadium is cheering loudly against us, and I'm looking forward [to] seeing how our team performs and grows in these adverse conditions" – USWNT coach Emma Hayes

Next week, the USWNT will travel to São Paulo and Fortaleza for back-to-back friendlies against Brazil on June 6 and 9, almost a year out from the 2027 World Cup. While Brazil is a familiar opponent (the U.S. faced them in back-to-back friendlies in April 2025 and in the final of the 2024 Olympics), As Canarinhas are ranked sixth in the world and offer Hayes’ team another vigorous test as they continue their preparations for World Cup qualifiers this fall.

With the three-peat of friendlies against Japan still relatively fresh, Hayes will have her eye on who performs well among her first-choice keepers, which young talents can rebound from a disappointing spring camp, and how her squad responds to a physical opponent with plenty of flair like Brazil.

While the roster drop is imminent, Man City midfielder Sam Coffey will sadly be unavailable after undergoing knee surgery. Due to injury, Gotham’s Rose Lavelle and Chelsea’s Naomi Girma are both questionable, which may leave room for a few surprises to make their case, including KC Current’s Croix Bethune and North Carolina Courage’s Ashley Sanchez, both of whom are in top-notch form with their clubs.

Sam’s Take 🗣️: I've also heard some shouts for Utah Royals centerback Kate del Fava, who has been a huge part of the Royals' success and impressive goals against average this season. And just for fun... might I also throw out Pietra Tordin’s name who plays for the Thorns? Let me know who you'd like to see called into this camp in our Discord channel!

Sam’s Spring New Balance Gift Guide 🎁

Sam writes: Spring is my season. From planting fresh flowers in my garden and going on long walks with Finn and Chester, to giving my wardrobe the refresh it deserves.

That’s where New Balance comes in. I always enjoy NB fits – their quality, comfort and effortless style. This spring, here are my five picks for you to level up your look:

530 Sneakers – These are my go‑to sneakers. They’ve logged plenty of miles on Vermont trails, cross‑country travel, and a whole lot of TWG tour stops in between.
Trackside Fleece Full Zip and Barrel Pant – I LIVE for a cozy matching set. Perfect for watching NWSL or a quick coffee run.
'47 Clean Up Hat – My favorite yellow cap has become a regular at Boston games. Go Legacy!
Tekela Elite Low FG V5 – For my soccer girls, these New Balance cleats deliver. Fast, controlled and elite with every step.

NWSL Action Heats Up 🔥

Kansas City Current 🩵 3-1 Portland Thorns 🌹

This weekend, at the fortress that is CPKC Stadium, Portland striker Sophia Wilson scored a crafty give-and-go goal, beating Kansas City goalkeeper Lorena at the near post. However, the Current refused to be subdued, staging a comeback led by captain Lo’eau LaBonta who equalized before star Temwa Chawinga scored a clinical strike and later selflessly assisted winger Haley Hopkins on a breakaway in stoppage time to seal the win.

Bay FC 🌉 0-1 Chicago Stars ⭐️

The “Triple Espresso” comeback tour is clearly in full swing. Hours after Wilson scored her fourth goal of the year, Chicago forward Mallory Swanson notched a stunning left-footed strike – her first since giving birth to her daughter Josie and the Stars’ first goal since April 25.

Sam’s Take 🗣️: This goal secured a big win for Chicago, who defeated a depleted Bay FC team that found themselves down to nine after receiving two red cards. This was the CRAZY red card shown to Bay FC goalkeeper Jordan Silkowitz that you just have to see. I feel for her, as she's having a great season. This is just one of those moments you really can't explain.

Boston Legacy 💚 1-2 Seattle Reign 👑

Chicago wasn’t the only team to end their scoring drought this weekend. After five games without finding the net, the Reign clinched a 2-1 win against Boston, with goals from captain Sofia Huerta and rising talent Maddie Dahlien.

Utah Royals 💛 2-1 Denver Summit ⛰️

In one of the most surprising developments of the season, Utah seems unstoppable. After beating Denver 2-1, last year’s 12th-place Royals finished the weekend in first place after going nine games undefeated – a new club record.

Elsewhere in the World 🌎

Club América Lift W Champions Cup After 5-3 Victory vs. Spirit 🏆

After a CONCACAF semi-final in which they beat NWSL Champions Gotham FC, Club América earned their first international title with a dramatic 5-3 win against the Washington Spirit in Pachuca, Mexico over the weekend. While América scored twice in the first half, a long-range shot from Sofia Cantore and a brace from Rosemonde Kouassi helped give the Spirit a 3-2 advantage. But Brazil’s Geyse ignited a second-half comeback for América, helping them to win and book their place in the 2027 FIFA Champions Cup and 2028 Club World Cup. Catch the highlights and trophy lift.

North Korea Claims 1-0 Victory in AFC Champions League Final 🇰🇵

This year’s AFC Champions League delivered a historic moment as North Korean side Naegohyang made a rare visit to South Korea – the first by any North Korean sports team since 2018. The team’s journey included a 2-1 semifinal win over South Korean club Suwon FC and culminated in a 1-0 victory in the final over Tokyo Verdy Beleza, which secures the team qualification for the 2027 FIFA Women’s Champions Cup.

Charlton Win 2-1 vs. Leicester on Penalties to Clinch WSL Promotion ❤️

After a 120-minute stalemate, the first-ever promotion playoff final was decided on penalties, with WSL 2 side Charlton sealing a dramatic 2-1 victory. Thanks to some legendary shot-stopping from goalkeeper Sophie Whitehouse, her side will join the top flight, which is expanding from 12 to 14 teams. Leicester City, who fought valiantly throughout, will compete in the second tier next season.

Upcoming Games to Cancel Your Weekend Plans For 🗓️

World Sevens Football 🏴󠁧󠁢󠁥󠁮󠁧󠁿 (Thursday-Saturday, DAZN)

The third edition of the action-packed 7x7 tournament is about to take London by storm, featuring eight top teams, including Chelsea and Manchester United. On May 28 and 29, fans will be treated to round-robin group stage matches. The top two teams from each group will advance to the semi‑finals on Saturday, ahead of the crowning of the W7F Champions later that day.

USL Super League Final: Lexington SC 💚 vs. Carolina Ascent 💜 (Saturday, 7 p.m. ET, Peacock)

This weekend, the 2026 Gainbridge Super League final kicks off with Lexington SC hosting Carolina Ascent FC in what is sure to be a close battle (their regular-season record against each other is one win, one loss, and one draw). To reach the first championship final in both club’s history, Lexington claimed a 2-0 victory against Dallas Trinity, while Carolina earned a 1-0 win against Sporting JAX.

FA Cup Final: Brighton 💙 vs. Manchester City 🩵 (Sunday, 10 a.m. ET, CBS Sports Network)

After clinching the WSL title, City have their eye on a domestic double and a fourth FA Cup trophy at Wembley. Meanwhile, the Seagulls have grown in confidence after beating City in their title-winning season, toppling second-place Arsenal, and knocking out Liverpool in the FA Cup semi-final to compete for their first major trophy in club history.

Angel City 😇 vs. North Carolina Courage 💙 (Sunday, 7 p.m. ET, Victory+)

Buoyed by two wins in two games and the blistering form of attacker Ashley Sanchez, the Courage head to the City of Angels for their final game before the break. Waiting for them is ACFC, who have dropped to 11th place, and will be hoping to jumpstart their attack and recapture their early-season momentum.

News & Notes 🗞️

Watch striker Bunny Shaw put an end to months of speculation on her future, bring joy to Cityzens around the world, and flatten Chelsea’s hopes in one fell swoop.
Michelle Kang’s bid for global domination might have just hit a snag. Last week, UEFA doubled down that clubs with the same owner can’t compete together in Champions League.
This eight-time Ballon d’Or winner just acquired the club UE Cornellà, and one of his first projects is to establish a women’s team. OK, Ted Lasso.
“Poetry, soccer, and service.” DC Scores does all of the above to empower youth and recently honored USWNT legend Briana Scurry for her incredible career and activism. Listen to Coach Jackie break it all down.

It’s TWG Trivia Time 🤔

This week’s question: Ewa Pajor finished the 2025-2026 UWCL season with 11 goals and secured the Golden Boot. What team did she score her first goal against in this season’s Champions League campaign?

Respond to this email (or reply here) for a chance to win a coveted TWG patch.

Last week’s answer: We asked what WSL/WSL 2 team has been promoted and relegated the most times, and the correct answer is Bristol City.

Congrats to Lee Breisacher, who was the first person to respond correctly. Lee, your patch is on its way! 💌

Moment of Joy 🤸

Kristy writes: Hi Sam! I’m currently at the Museum of Natural History in NYC, and they have a new exhibit called “Goal Zone” where they have lots of cool interactive soccer-themed games like table soccer, foosball, soccer video games, and shot speed where they record your shot in mph, etc.

But the most exciting aspect of Goal Zone is the giant screen that is showing tons of soccer highlights. The majority of the highlights are from NWSL games including my team, Gotham!!!! This gave me chills because it just shows how the women’s game has grown and it just gives me such joy knowing that all the young boys and girls entering will know BOTH women’s and men’s soccer! Jaedyn Shaw, Michelle Cooper, and Barbra Banda highlights overtook highlights of Messi!

Props to the Museum of Natural History! It was a weekend full of women’s soccer with the Lyon vs. Barca game, and Gotham and Spirit playing in the CONCACAF W Champions Cup! My women’s soccer-loving heart is full! Sam, Becky and Lynn – thanks so much for leading the way and being incredible role models for us all!

Go Bats!

Kristy Drobik

Sam writes: Hi Kristy, It is really exciting to see women’s soccer getting this kind of spotlight at the Museum of Natural History! We’ve come so far in terms of progress, so discovering an exhibit that treats the women’s game with real care and attention to detail is so good to hear. I love the thought of Rose and Sonnett being celebrated for Gotham (go Bats!). They’re truly deserving of that recognition. Now I know what I’ll be adding to my list the next time I visit NYC!

Thanks for sharing and tuning in! We will be covering all the latest soccer news, including the CONCACAF W Champions Cup and more on today’s “Good Vibes,” so be sure to check it out. <3

Love,
Sam

👋 Want to be featured in next week’s TWG newsletter? Send Sam an email! All your questions, comments, and roast chicken recipes can be sent to womensgamemib@meninblazers.com. And be sure to check out our other newsletters too!

Triple Espresso Returns & the UWCL Final! 👀

Megan Swanick — Tue, 19 May 2026 10:00:00 +0000

Happy Tuesday, TWG readers!

Saturday’s WSL finale was emotional for so many players and fans, but especially for my family as we watched Sam Kerr play her last game for Chelsea. I teared up watching her walk onto the pitch with her son, Jagger. In true Sam fashion, she scored one of the most beautiful goals of the day, showcasing her natural ability and instinct in front of goal. Seven seasons of magic for the Blues, and I know she will continue to shine wherever she ends up next. We’re so incredibly proud of her! 🥹

Back at TWG HQ, we’re gearing up for an epic Champions League final this weekend. I’m excited to share a brand-new episode of “The Captain with Lindsey Heaps” dropping tomorrow, which explores Lyonnes’ unbelievable UWCL journey. Then we’re sitting down with her teammate, Lily Yohannes, for “Friendlies” on Thursday with an inside look at her breakout season. And to celebrate this year’s UWCL campaign, join us after Saturday’s match on TWG Live as Becky and I react to all the drama after the final whistle. 🎙️

Also, we just dropped a new episode of “Teaming Up” with The Athletic’s Tamerra Griffin, who is always a delight, and don’t forget to catch “Mewis Squared” with me and Kristie on Friday! ⚽️

As for me, I enjoyed a quintessential Vermont weekend. Pat and I rode bikes to the farmer’s market, ate dinners outside, and planted flowers. I even swung by the Vermont Green women’s practice as they prepare for their season opener tonight. More from my weekend on today’s episode of “Good Vibes”! 💐

And keep reading for the latest!

Love,
Sam

P.S. From winter signing to spring silverware! Even knee surgery couldn’t keep this shirt‑tuck legend from the party.

TWG HQ Bulletin Board 📢

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Champions League Final: A Legacy‑Defining Duel 🔥

Barcelona 🇪🇸 vs. OL Lyonnes 🇫🇷 (Saturday at 12 p.m. ET, Paramount+)

In less than a week, a new Champion of Europe will be crowned in Oslo. The undisputed queens of contemporary football, Barcelona, who have three UWCL titles to their name, face perennial powerhouse OL Lyonnes, who are chasing a ninth trophy in a final loaded with passion, history and an air of redemption.

Convinced they were on track to win the tournament in 2025, the Spanish giants watched their dreams of a three-peat slip away as Arsenal, revitalized under new coach Reneé Slegers, claimed their second UWCL trophy since 2007. It’s been a bumpy season for La Blaugrana with financial strain forcing the club to part ways with players and lose vital depth, including defender Ingrid Engen (to Lyonnes, of all places), and it only got worse when Aitana Bonmatí fractured her leg in the fall. Yet somehow, the squad has refused to cave. Now, with Bonmatí back on the pitch, Barça has another chance to restore themselves to the top of the podium and prove their dynasty isn’t done yet.

Meanwhile, Lyonnes are hoping to spoil the party. The irony is rich: the French side recruited former Barça manager Jonatan Giráldez, perhaps to help decode exactly what makes his old club tick. With Giráldez at the helm, veterans including USWNT star midfielder Lindsey Heaps, and a slew of summer signings – like German star forward Jule Brand and USWNT midfield dynamo Lily Yohannes – Lyonnes will be hoping to wear Barça down with pace on the wings and a bench stacked with game‑changers.

This year’s final marks the fourth time the two European giants have met, with Lyonnes besting Barça twice, although the Spanish side has most recently had the edge with a 2-0 victory in 2024. Will Lyon grab a jaw-dropping ninth title, or will Barça bounce back and claim their fourth?

Before the drama unfolds, check out some of the standout players to watch and tune into “Good Vibes” today for Sam’s full UWCL breakdown:

🤩 Barça’s Top Players

Alexia Putellas – As captain, Putellas wears her lifelong devotion to the club on her sleeve (her emotional response after making the final said everything). With her contract expiring this summer, this could be her final Champions League run with La Blaugrana. The first player to win the UEFA Women’s Player of the Year and Ballon d’Or Féminin in back‑to‑back seasons, she’s also tied for fifth all-time in UWCL assists.

Aitana Bonmatí – Considered by many to be the greatest footballer in the world, Bonmatí was named MVP when Barça won their first UWCL in 2021, and has since picked up three Ballon d’Or trophies. Coming back from a leg fracture, she returned in the semifinal against Bayern. Could she be the missing piece to tilt the balance in her team’s favor?

Ewa Pajor – The Polish striker embodies the definition of dominance, with a lethal header and the joint‑highest goal tally in this season’s UWCL, alongside Arsenal’s Alessia Russo. She joined the Spanish side from Wolfsburg in 2024 and set a new record for the most goals scored in a single season (43) across all major competitions at Barça. Most recently, she netted a pair of stunning goals in the semifinal vs. Bayern to ensure her team’s victory.

💫 Lyonnes’ Difference Makers

Lindsey Heaps – This is the USWNT captain's swan song before departing for Denver FC in the summer, and she’s looking to make it count. After helping the French giants lift the UWCL trophy during her 2021/22 loan spell, she now aims to bookend her time in Europe with another title and to rewrite the memory of their 2023/24 defeat, the last time the two sides met.

Jule Brand – After impressing in the Euros, it’s no wonder Michelle Kang scooped up this 23-year-old German winger. In her first season with Lyonnes, she has flourished, delivering big moments when it mattered most, including scoring the winning goal in the UWCL semifinal to defeat the reigning champions Arsenal 4-3 on aggregate and book her team a place in the final.

Melchie Dumornay – Hailing from Haiti, this young forward has collected four Player of the Match awards, and her vision was on full display when she slipped a brilliant ball to Brand late in the semifinal, punishing Arsenal for switching off and willing her team one step closer to UWCL glory. With back‑to‑back Young Player of the Season honors, she is making a case for herself for the Ballon d'Or.

Sam’s Take 🗣️: Lyonnes' longevity is so impressive to me. While they are losing Lindsey this summer, their succession planning and depth is constantly showing. Make sure to check out “The Captain” tomorrow to hear more from Lindsey on how her teammates are stepping up with every opportunity they get. 📺

Also: Watch the fastest goal in a UWCL final scored by a Brazilian fan favorite.

The Two Biggest NWSL Battles of the Week 🥊

Game winner Kimmi Ascanio celebrates with her San Diego teammates

🌊 San Diego Wave 2-1 Washington Spirit 💛

San Diego climbed to the top of the table after snapping the Spirit’s eight-game unbeaten streak (not to mention throwing some serious shade at Jose the Coyote). In her first-ever start, San Diego striker Trinity Byars scored her first NWSL goal. But Washington rallied to find the equalizer with defender Rebeca Bernal heading home a corner whipped in by Leicy Santos. While a fairly even matchup, 18-year-old Wave midfielder Kimmi Ascanio broke the deadlock in the 88th minute to beat Spirit goalkeeper Sandy MacIver and snatch a dramatic, last‑minute win for the Wave.

👑 Seattle Reign 0-2 Gotham FC🦇

In a rematch of the 2023 NWSL Championship, fifth-place Gotham extended their unbeaten run to five games against the Reign. After a bit of brilliant footwork from rookie Jordynn Dudley going one-on-one versus her defender, Jaedyn Shaw pounced on a loose ball in the box and converted her third goal in three games to open the scoring. Then, captain Tierna Davidson doubled the lead, finishing off a recycled ball from a corner – her first goal of the season and first since returning from an ACL tear. Seattle will be eager to turn things around after five winless games, but the night still offered some silver linings: defender Sofia Huerta marked her 100th club appearance and Laura Harvey became the first head coach in NWSL history to reach 300 matches.

Elsewhere in the League: The final member of ‘Triple Espresso’ is finally back! Mallory Swanson made her first appearance in 559 days for the Chicago Stars since giving birth to her daughter Josie.

Sam’s Take 🗣️: I was so happy to see Mal back on the field! She will bring some much-needed direction and leadership to Chicago, who are really struggling to score. Despite the loss, Mal's post-game reunion with Josie was so sweet and a precious reminder that players are people first.

Plus: In honor of the throw-in theatrics of Orlando Pride’s Kerry Abello over the weekend, check out some of the best NWSL flips ever.

WSL Wraps With a Changing of the Guard 😢

Bunny Shaw, Alex Greenwood and Kerstin Casparij celebrate winning City’s first WSL title in 10 years

Manchester City, Arsenal and Chelsea all closed the 2025/26 WSL regular season with wins, wrapping up a campaign defined by dominant performances at the top, but bittersweet roster shakeups on the horizon.

The title winners, City, signed off on the season with a resounding 4-1 victory against West Ham, with Bunny Shaw adding two more to her tally of 21 goals and claiming the Barclays Women's Super League Golden Boot for a record third season in a row. Despite the successes she’s had at the club over the years, her future with City is up in the air with multiple clubs eager to sign the Jamaican striker, including Chelsea.

Meanwhile, after winning their midweek match against Everton, Arsenal locked in second place with a 3-1 win over Liverpool to guarantee automatic qualification to the UWCL league phase next season. The match also served as a farewell for two long‑time pillars of the club: attacker Beth Mead, who is reported to be headed to Manchester City, as well as Ireland captain and Gunner Katie McCabe, who captained her side and celebrated an assist in her final appearance.

In one of the weekend’s closer contests, Chelsea beat Man United 1-0 with one last emotional goal from striker Sam Kerr, which saw her equal Fran Kirby’s all-time goal-scoring record for the Blues. Kerr confirmed that she would be leaving Stamford Bridge after six-and-a-half seasons, having scored 115 goals in 157 appearances across all competitions, including a club-record of 64 goals in the WSL.

Upcoming Games to Get Excited About 🗓️

National Women’s Soccer League

Kansas City Current 🩵 vs. Portland Thorns🌹(Sunday, 1 p.m. ET, CBS/Paramount+)

A rematch of the 2022 NWSL Championship, which saw the Thorns achieve their third title, goes down this Sunday at CPKC Stadium. Third-place Portland have stumbled in form recently, falling 3-1 to Racing Louisville and drawing with Angel City 0-0 at home. The sixth-place Current are aiming to stretch their winning streak to four games as they continue to climb the standings after a bumpy early start to the season.

San Diego Wave 🌊 vs. Orlando Pride 💜 (Sunday, 7 p.m. ET, Victory+)

San Diego’s hold on first place could face a challenge from Orlando this weekend. The ninth-place Pride have three defeats in their last four games, but former league MVP Barbra Banda is on a roll after scoring her sixth goal in five games over the weekend, and currently leading the NWSL Golden Boot race with nine goals this season.

Queens Classic: Gotham 🦇 vs. Washington Spirit 💛 on July 15, 2026

This summer, Gotham FC will make history, hosting the first-ever women’s sporting event at Citi Field as they take on the Spirit in a rematch of the 2025 NWSL Championship. As part of this historic night, we’re excited to offer an exclusive 20% discount on tickets for members of the Men in Blazers/The Women’s Game community. Visit this site and use the code THEWOMENSGAME to unlock your seats.

Sam’s Take 🗣️: I am so psyched for this! It’s such a cool opportunity to grow Gotham's fan base and take advantage of a true "Summer of Soccer" moment in the New York City area. It may also be a test to see how NYC shows up for Gotham as rumors of moving stadiums to New York instead of New Jersey started swirling recently. Make sure to check out “Good Vibes” for a convo with Becky about this.🗽

News & Notes 🗞️

OG HIP rule, we hardly knew you. Rumor has it that the NWSL is already set to change the High Impact Player Rule criteria, which could lead to more star signings. Could we see Sam Kerr make the move across the pond… again?
Speaking of which, where in the world should Kerr play next? Here’s a ranking of NWSL teams that the famed striker could join, from the clubs most likely to secure her signature to those facing the steepest odds.
What do chopsticks, smoothies, and underwater treadmills have in common? At Manchester City’s new $13‑million first‑team training facility, they’re just part of the perks coming off of the club’s most successful season in a decade.
A partial sale is in the works for Racing Louisville, but don’t panic. They’re actually looking to attract more investors to compete with larger NWSL markets at the highest level.
As we observe Mental Health Awareness Month in May, we’d like to recognize those pushing for meaningful change, including ex-Liverpool coach Matt Beard’s family, whose urgent call for more resources and support for managers in high‑pressure roles deserves real attention.

It’s TWG Trivia Time 🤔

This week’s question: Which WSL/WSL 2 team has been promoted and relegated the most times?

Respond to this email (or reply here) for a chance to win a coveted TWG patch.

Last week’s answer: With the FA Cup final on May 31, we asked: after the women’s competition debuted in 1971, which club went on to win eight titles and appear in 10 of the first 11 finals? And the answer was Southampton!

Congrats to Katie McCloskey, who was the first person to respond correctly. Katie, your patch is on its way! 💌

Moment of Joy 🤸

Christina writes: Hi Sam, I am an American living in New Zealand and I’m an avid soccer fan and an OG “Good Vibes” listener. I look forward to all the Women’s Game pods and love how you are growing your corner of the internet so intentionally. You have such a great rapport with your cohosts and your interviews are incredibly genuine, entertaining, and well done. When I listen to you and Kristie, I feel like I’m hanging out with my three millennial nieces 6,000 miles away who are also sisters and best friends. I am obsessed with the USWNT and always look forward to your post-game lives. I am also a very big NWSL fan and I’m so thankful for NWSL+ so I can catch every game ahead of your weekly wrap ups.

I want to let you know about an awesome soccer story from New Zealand. On Sunday, in front of a record breaking crowd of nearly 6,000, the Wellington Phoenix Women won their semi-final game in extra time against the Brisbane Roar to make it into the A-League Grand Final! It’s the first time a NZ team, men or women, have accomplished that! The crowd and atmosphere were epic and the players were, as always, incredibly gracious. After a very long, hard fought game, they greeted their fans for well over an hour! It was the most memorable Mother’s Day. Makayla Wood, one of three Americans on the Phoenix, played her final year of college soccer at the University of Kentucky and scored a brace in the 2-0 win (3-2 on aggregate). If you go to the Wellington Phoenix IG page, you can see all the amazing footage/images of their historic win. It is definitely worth your time because it is well and truly the epitome of Good Vibes FC!

Up the ‘Nix in the Grand Final on Saturday!!

Love from Christina and Pixel, my Cavoodle who is a soccer fan in her own right and watches all the games, cheers on my teen at her games, and is honestly a heckuva defender herself.

Sam writes: Hi Christina, First off, Happy belated Mother’s Day to you as a mom and as a dog mom to Pixel, which is the cutest name ever. Thank you for listening all the way from New Zealand, which I’m already a big fan of thanks to my friend Ali Riley. It means so much that the pod makes you feel more connected; that’s exactly the kind of energy we always hoped to put out when we started TWG.

I loved hearing about the Wellington Phoenix Women and their extraordinary, history‑making run to the A‑League Grand Final! Even though the result didn’t go their way against Melbourne City over the weekend, getting that far is huge, and I hope they can build on the experience and come back even stronger. Thanks for taking the time to write in! <3

Love,
Sam

📝 Want to be featured in next week’s TWG newsletter? Send Sam an email! All your questions, comments, and roast chicken recipes can be sent to womensgamemib@meninblazers.com

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How the WSL Champions Won It All 🏆

Megan Swanick — Tue, 12 May 2026 10:00:00 +0000

Happy Tuesday, TWG readers!

My family and I spent Mother’s Day together on Sunday watching the FA Cup semifinal between Man City and Chelsea. While we were cheering hard for Sam Kerr and the Blues, I’m sure City fans absolutely loved that comeback win – what a moment! Sam did amazing, scoring a goal and creating tons of chances, but Bunny Shaw’s game winner was a sight to behold. As a former City player myself, I’m happy for them and loved watching them celebrate their league title last week. 🏆

It’s a big week at TWG headquarters, and we’re buzzing. Becky just dropped an all-new episode of “Teaming Up” featuring former USWNT player and friend of the pod Meghan Klingenberg. Today, on “Good Vibes,” Reba and I are breaking down Temwa Chawinga’s resurgence, Man City being crowned WSL champions, and so much more! And to wrap up the week, get ready for “Friendlies” with Houston Dash defender and longtime NWSL fan favorite, Paige Nielsen, on Thursday. 🎙️

I’m also excited to spend some time in Boston this week to see family and celebrate my husband Pat finishing his first year of law school! Really looking forward to visiting some of my old haunts… like my favorite bar, Corner Tavern, and the pool at MIT. We’re also heading to see Boston Legacy tonight at Gillette Stadium! Keep an eye on TWG socials for some BTS from the game. 💚

Thanks for being part of this community! 🫶

Love,
Sam

P.S. TWG kept it real on Mother’s Day… and Baby Horse has a baby on the way! 🐴💫

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WATCH THE POD

NWSL Rivalry Weekend ⚔️

San Diego Wave defender Mimi Van Zanten celebrates her first NWSL goal with teammate Lia Godfrey.

😇 Angel City 1-2 San Diego Wave 🌊

The City of Angels and San Diego have long shared a fierce sporting history, and this SoCal match-up was no exception. In a back-and-forth contest that saw both sides trade big chances, forward Dudinha netted her third goal of the season, only for Angel City to answer five minutes later when Emily Sams buried her first LA goal off a perfectly weighted ball from captain Sarah Gorden.

The deadlock held until the 81st minute, when rookie Mimi Van Zanten seized her moment, scoring her first-ever NWSL goal. With the SoCal derby win, the Wave broke a three‑game losing streak, while ACFC slid to 11th after a frustrating four‑match slump.

Read: With the Mewis and Thompson sisters already etched in NWSL history, the Van Zanten sisters are the latest family duo stepping into the spotlight. 👯‍♀️

🦇 Gotham FC 1-1 Boston Legacy 💚

In a festive rematch from opening weekend featuring everyone from USWNT manager Emma Hayes to New York City mayor Zohran Mamdani in attendance, Boston built on the momentum of their first NWSL win last week, equalizing against the reigning champions. In the 20th minute, Jaedyn Shaw pounced on a rebound from goalkeeper Casey Murphy’s initial stop, opening the scoring with her third goal of the season and 23rd in the NWSL in all comps. But Boston responded just three minutes later, as Spanish midfielder Alba Caño converted her second goal of the year, and the Legacy managed to hold off Gotham, riding out the pressure.

The match also showcased Mamdani’s affordability initiative with thousands of $5 tickets sold out in under an hour, helping draw 11,038 fans, the fourth‑largest regular‑season crowd in Gotham history.

More: Midge Purce might not see this match-up as a rivalry quite yet, but Gotham could have fooled us. 😏

🔥 Even More Drama Around the League

Louisville stunned league leaders Portland 3-1, thanks to a Katie O’Kane brace and USWNT forward Emma Sears’ stoppage-time breakaway. Summit midfielder Delanie Sheehan headed home her first goal of the season against her former club, Houston, to deliver a 4-1 win to Denver. And last year’s Golden Boot winner Temwa Chawinga not only opened her 2026 scoring account, but did so in style with a hat‑trick, giving Kansas City a decisive 3-0 victory against Chicago.

Sam’s Take 🗣️: Becky and I said it last week: when Temwa is scoring goals, Kansas City is winning games. Amidst all the chaos, it's nice to see something you know you can count on. Hats off to her!

Anatomy of a Championship: How City Won the WSL 🏆

Man City’s Rebecca Knaak dives to score a late-winner against Liverpool.

In 2025, Manchester City ended their WSL campaign dejected: injuries piling up, Champions League qualification slipping away and the lingering sting of losing the previous year’s WSL title to Chelsea on goal difference. As we near the end of the 2025-2026 season, the mood could not be more different (as newly crowned champ Sam Coffey can attest) with City claiming their first Women’s Super League trophy in a decade, finally breaking Chelsea’s six‑year hold on the title.

Here’s how the club transformed from a side on the ropes to champions once again:

🫡 A New Coach for a New Era

In June 2025, City brought in Andrée Jeglertz, a three-time league champion in the Swedish top division and Champions League winner, who led his team to European glory in 2004 with a squad including Brazil’s Marta (yes, that Marta). Over the season, he steadied the club and reshaped City’s internal dynamics, favoring an open-door approach and direct communication, which made a difference compared to his predecessor whose relationships with players could be strained.

🎯 Smart Recruitment to Add Squad Depth

While City’s 2024–2025 campaign was derailed by injuries, the club recruited smartly over the summer, reinforcing their back line with Canadian international Jade Rose and adding Swiss attacker Iman Beney, fresh off an impressive Euros. They also signed Brazilian star Kerolin from the North Carolina Courage, and after months of pursuit, secured USWNT midfielder Sam Coffey in January, giving the team a steel spine it once lacked which allowed them to turn to reserves when faced with injuries.

⏳Fewer Fixtures Than Their WSL Counterparts

Another key factor in City’s first WSL title since 2016 was the simple advantage of playing fewer matches than Chelsea, Arsenal and United. Finishing fourth last season, and missing out on UWCL qualification, was a bitter pill, but it gave City space to reset. Without a congested European schedule, they could concentrate fully on the WSL and domestic cups, rebuild confidence, and demonstrate consistency without the strain of extra fixtures and travel across Europe.

City Stun Chelsea, Knocking Them Out of the FA Cup 😱

A tough ending for the Blues, as USWNT star Alyssa Thompson and her squad exit the competition.

Chelsea 2-3 Manchester City

In the greatest shock of the weekend, WSL champions Manchester City overcame a 2-0 deficit away at Stamford Bridge to beat the six-time holders 3-2 in the dying moments of the FA Cup semifinal. The Blues came firing out of the gate with an early goal from Erin Cuthbert, followed by Sam Kerr’s clutch header to cushion their advantage, marking the eighth goal in eight games for the Chelsea striker.

But City refused to fold. Late substitute Mary Fowler breathed hope into her team, scoring in the 87th minute just 60 seconds after stepping onto the pitch. Striker Bunny Shaw then forced extra time by equalizing off a header from another inspired late sub, 19‑year‑old Beney. Then in overtime, City’s Yui Hasegawa intercepted a wayward pass, whipped in a cross, which Shaw headed home, completing the comeback. Adding even more intrigue, Shaw, the hero of the night, is rumored to be weighing a $1.36 million move to Chelsea this summer, the very club she just knocked out of the FA Cup.

Liverpool 2-3 Brighton

In the weekend’s other semifinal, Brighton mounted a comeback of their own, overturning a two‑goal deficit against Liverpool. In the 95th minute, super‑sub Nadine Noordam buried a stunning strike to silence the Reds, sending the Seagulls to their first‑ever FA Cup final at Wembley and putting a major trophy within reach.

FA Cup Canon

England’s FA Cup is the ultimate equalizer: historic, unpredictable and open to clubs from any tier brave enough to dream, with a women’s competition that dates back to 1971.

Ahead of the May 31 final vs. Man City, Brighton are among only three teams to hand City a defeat in their title-winning season. But their northern neighbors are still favorites, as they chase a fourth FA Cup and domestic double, while Brighton would love nothing more than a dramatic upset to close out a landmark year.

Sam’s Take 🗣️: I'll be cheering for City in the FA Cup final, but Brighton have been a joy to watch as of late. We'll highlight some of their accomplishments, including this run to the FA Cup final, in today's episode of “Good Vibes FC.” Check it out wherever you get your podcasts!

This Week’s Can’t-Miss Matches 🗓️

National Women’s Soccer League

San Diego Wave 🌊 vs. Washington Spirit 💛 (Friday, 10 p.m. ET, Victory+)

Fresh off their win vs. ACFC, the Wave look to keep their momentum going against Washington, who are unbeaten since March 13. They will face USWNT star Trinity Rodman, and 18-year-old Claudia Martinez, who is now the fourth Spirit player with three goals this year after scoring the winner against Seattle.

Seattle Reign 👑 vs. Gotham FC 🦇 (Friday, 10 p.m. ET, Victory+)

In this rematch of the 2023 NWSL Championship, which saw Gotham claim their first trophy in franchise history, Seattle will aim to secure their first win since March 28 amid a four-game winless run to stay above the playoff line. After battling to a tie against Boston, Gotham are undefeated in four with three wins, looking sharp with Chelsea star Guro Reiten settling seamlessly into the team.

Women’s Super League

West Ham ⚒ vs. Man City 🩵 (Saturday, 8 a.m. ET)

After securing the WSL trophy, City play their final match against 10th-placed West Ham with Bunny Shaw chasing a third straight Golden Boot. While the title may be settled, tune into the final matchday of the season for the emotional celebrations and potential farewells if there are any summer trades on the horizon.

Chelsea 💙 vs. Man United 👹 (Saturday, 8 a.m. ET)

Ahead of Arsenal’s midweek clash with Everton, Chelsea remain second but could drop to third if their north London rivals take advantage. Regardless, the Blues face a must‑win scenario to lock in automatic Champions League qualification.

Liverpool ♥️ vs. Arsenal 🦖 (Saturday, 8 a.m. ET)

The Reds host the reigning Champions League holders, who have two matches left to secure their place in next year’s competition: tomorrow against Everton and this final‑day trip to Liverpool. The Gunners are favored in both, but any misstep could force them into a playoff route. It’s a path they know well: in 2024–2025, they became the first club to navigate every qualifying round to win the UWCL.

News & Notes 🗞️

⚽️ Welcome home, U.S. Soccer! A first‑of‑its‑kind national training center is now officially open in Atlanta, uniting all 27 American national teams under one roof. Here’s how the vision became a reality.

Sam’s Take 🗣️: This is really cool. A home base for all teams has the potential to add so much to the program. I imagine this could create more opportunities for teams to cross paths, more options for players with long-term injuries, and more cohesiveness across the staff, and I'm excited to learn more about all that the NTC can provide.

💔 A heartbreak for Arsenal fans. After nine years in north London, Beth Mead has announced she will depart the club at the end of the season. She has 265 appearances for the Gunners and remains the only WSL player to accomplish this feat.

🏆 OL Lyonnes just won the Coupe de France! In her final season with the club, USWNT captain Lindsey Heaps helped the French side to their 11th title and their first since 2023.

🇸🇪 The first‑ever UEFA Europa Cup ended in an all‑Swedish showdown, and BK Häcken lifted the trophy after 19‑year‑old phenom Felicia Schröder delivered a hat‑trick against Hammarby.

🤩 When your favorite stars are starstruck and get to attend a surprise “secret” concert at the Teatre Grec de Barcelona…

It’s TWG Trivia Time 🤔

This week’s question: With the first Women’s FA Cup in 1971, which team won eight titles while appearing in 10 of the first 11 finals?

Respond to this email (or reply here) for a chance to win a coveted TWG patch.

Last week’s answer: In 2019, when Barcelona and Lyonnes went head-to-head in their first UWCL final, which players scored to secure Lyonnes a 4-1 win in Budapest? The correct answer was Dzsenifer Morazsan and Ada Hegerberg, who scored a hat-trick!

Congrats to Nikki Pipes, who was the first person to respond correctly. Nikki, your patch is on its way! 💌

Moment of Joy 🤸

Jennifer writes: I have been listening to your show from the beginning and have really become a fan of women's soccer especially now that my daughter is a high school student playing on a club and for her school. When I was in school, there was no women's soccer in my high school, which is in a rural part of Washington State, so learning about soccer for the first time I think I really would have loved playing, but now I'm just a crazy fan!

I appreciate how you all dive into the mentality of team culture and individual psychology; it helps to hear that even the pros have the same kind of mental angst that comes with making a roster, not making a roster, etc. That normalizes the teen girl experience. So much can be learned from continuing to work hard even when you don't quite make your goal the first time around, but maybe make it the second or third time, or how to deal with injury and disappointment.

I have had this same question since becoming a fan but was reminded of it after you did a podcast with Becky after the women's team had an appearance in Nashville. It seemed like the perfect time to explain: Why do you call her Reba? How did Becky get that nickname?

Sincerely,
Jennifer from Washington State

Sam writes: I’m so happy to hear you’ve been with TWG from the very beginning – and even happier to hear how involved you are in your daughter’s soccer journey. Having my parents show up for me and Kristie, and coach us, made such a difference growing up. And yes, I can absolutely confirm that pros get anxious too. That’s why so many players work with sports psychologists to navigate both the physical demands and the emotional highs and lows of the game.

As for your question, “Reba” is just an affectionate shorthand for Rebecca – a nickname Becky’s teammates started using years ago, and it just stuck. There might also be a Reba McEntire reference in here that I don't know about, but we'll have to ask Becky on the pod next week! But no matter what we call her – Becky, Reba, the People’s Captain – we’re so glad she’s part of TWG.

Thanks for writing in and sharing! 🫶

Love,
Sam

📝 Want to be featured in next week’s TWG newsletter? Send Sam an email! All your questions, comments, and roast chicken recipes can be sent to womensgamemib@meninblazers.com

🙌 If you’re enjoying TWG, we’d love an assist. Forward this email or share this URL with a friend, family member, or fellow football fan.

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A Champions League Final for the Ages 🏆

Megan Swanick — Tue, 05 May 2026 10:00:00 +0000

Happy Tuesday, TWG readers!

First things first – we have a new baby in the TWG family! Last week, Lynn and her husband Marley introduced baby Lucky to the world. I’ve been chatting with Lynn and everyone is doing so great. I cannot wait to meet the little guy, and I am so happy for my friends who are already the most incredible parents. 👶

On the soccer front, we had such a busy weekend! I loved watching the UWCL semifinals and am excited to see TWG friend and podcast host, Lindsey Heaps, in the Champions League final on May 23! I also was over the moon to see my hometown NWSL team, the Boston Legacy, get their first win in club history. Check out the game winner from Bianca St-Georges. We’re covering all the soccer news from over the weekend in today’s episode of “Good Vibes.” 🙌

We’ve got plenty more podcasts on the way this week! A brand-new “Teaming Up” with USWNT defender Naomi Girma just dropped, Arsenal centerback Steph Catley joins “Friendlies” on Thursday, and Friday caps things off with a new “Mewis Squared” with Kristie before we head into the weekend. 📺

Thank you all so much for being here! 🫶

Love,
Sam

P.S. Uncle Naeher with the future of the USWNT team in her hands. (No pressure!) 👶

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