“Doubt is a stubborn shadow, but the right light can banish it.” That’s the vibe surrounding the USWNT’s incredible resurgence under their current boss Emma Hayes. After the heartbreak of the 2023 World Cup round of 16 exit, whispers of doubt echoed louder than cheers. But the 48-year-old, armed with tactical brilliance and undeniable charisma, has suddenly flipped the script. Seasoned defender Becky Sauerbrunn isn’t holding back her praise and gives credit for her Incredible 2024 season.

But as the saying goes, “Even champions have growing pains.” The showdown with the Dutch women reminded everyone there’s room to climb. Sure, the stats may have tilted orange, but from shorts on target to corner kicks, the Netherlands women certainly had every stat in their favor except the result—while Hayes’ squad walked away undefeated, extending their unbeaten streak to 15 matches since she took the reins in May.

Becky Sauerbrunn credits Emma Hayes’ magic on USWNT

When doubts stop doubting you, the silence that follows is deafening. That’s exactly what the USWNT has accomplished under the spellbinding leadership of Emma Hayes. With an Olympic gold medal in their pocket and a jaw-dropping 20-game unbeaten streak to cap off 2024, this squad is no longer whispering about redemption; they’re shouting for it.

Post-game, with the final whistle still echoing from their friendly against the Netherlands, ‘The Women’s Game‘ host Sam couldn’t resist asking Becky Sauerbrunn for her biggest takeaway from the match (i.e., their last game of 2024). Becky leaned into the mic with a thoughtful smile, saying, “This game is just a microcosm of the entire 2024. There were doubts about this team after 2023, but this program always finds a way to stay elite.” And why not? The team hasn’t just bounced back; they’ve bagged Olympic gold in 2024, silencing naysayers in style.

Speaking about the last friendly game, Netherlands dominated the first half against the USWNT, a significant statistical edge, but failed to capitalize on chances, including a near-miss by Van de Donk and a crossbar strike from Beerensteyn. USA goalkeeper Alyssa Naeher made crucial saves to keep her team in the match. Despite being outshot 14-1, Coach Emma Hayes’ halftime adjustments improved the Americans’ defense and attack as the game went on. In the end, Naeher’s heroics continued as the USA held on for a 2-1 victory despite the Dutch’s 22-5 shot advantage and 9-0 lead in corners.

The Emma Hayes effect—from doubts to dominance

“Happiness, confidence, and trust”—that’s the mantra Emma Hayes is infusing into the USWNT. She believes every player, whether a seasoned veteran or an emerging talent, has a role to play. “We will probably have to go through a period of determining,” Hayes hinted, leaving fans buzzing about the possibilities. Undoubtedly, she’s capable of molding the next generation while keeping her current squad laser-focused.

With the Futures Camp on the horizon and the SheBelieves Cup at the end of February, Hayes has a full plate ahead, sorting out the ongoing midfield conundrum, identifying the next No. 1 goalkeeper, and preparing her team for the grind of the 2026 World Cup qualifying. And if 2024’s success is any indication, she’s more than capable of turning lingering questions into definitive answers in the days to come.