USWNT rookies steal spotlight in flawless summer run

USWNT coach Emma Hayes completed a perfect first summer window with an 11-0 aggregate over Ireland and Canada, extending the program’s unbeaten 2024 record and reaffirming its regional dominance.

USWNT player stock report

Rising rapidly

Rose Lavelle proved she is fully fit, dictating tempo and scoring against Canada. Teenage midfielder Claire Hutton and winger Avery Patterson each bagged maiden goals, showing composure beyond their years. Goalkeeper Claudia Dickey kept two clean sheets, strengthening her claim to back up Alyssa Naeher.

Steady performers

Samantha Coffey added her third international goal while anchoring midfield, and versatile forward Lynn Biyendolo reached 25 U.S. goals with a cool finish versus Ireland. Both look pencilled in for Nations League qualifiers.

Needing a bounce-back

Veteran full-back M. McGlynn struggled with Canada’s press, and youngster C. Hutton ― despite scoring ― lost possession cheaply at times. Hayes will expect sharper decision-making when the squad reconvenes.

What Hayes learned

The coach rotated heavily yet preserved structure through a 4-2-3-1 that maximized midfield overloads and high pressing. Depth was the big revelation; even without injured stars Sophia Wilson, Mallory Swanson and Trinity Rodman, the attack never sputtered.

Looking ahead

With the fall window looming, roster battles will intensify. Lavelle’s resurgence, Hutton’s rapid ascent and Dickey’s emergence give Hayes luxurious headaches as Olympic qualifying edges closer.

Opinion: This camp showed that fresh faces can thrive when given tactical clarity. If Hayes continues blending youth with experience, the rest of CONCACAF should be very worried.