From the depths to the heights, it has been quite a journey for the USWNT. Not long ago, criticism surrounded the Stars and Stripes for their 2023 World Cup failure. Today, they are in the finals of the 2024 Paris Olympics, where the American ladies will be dancing with destiny against Brazil for the gold. As the atmosphere of the match intensifies, Emma Hayes has sent an optimistic message to their upcoming rivals.

During the post-match presser following a narrow victory against Germany, a journalist asked the ex-Chelsea boss if she would prefer Spain or Brazil in the final. Interestingly, Hayes replied, “I don’t care. I want a drink,” as compiled by The Athletic.

This comment was made just before the second semifinal clash between Spain and Brazil, showing that Hayes wasn’t focused on which side would be easier to face. Instead, it highlights her determination to win the gold, regardless of the opponent. Now, the stage is set for a showdown with the South American nation.

Notably, it was a stalemate affair for the USWNT in the semifinals against Germany. Sophia Smith’s decisive strike in extra time helped them progress to the gold medal match. Meanwhile, the other match saw Brazil winning a thrilling six-goal contest against a robust Spanish side. Marta and Co. took the lead within the first six minutes and doubled it before halftime.

The score was 3-0 shortly after the hour mark, but Spain managed to score one goal, briefly rekindling their hopes of a comeback. However, Brazil added a fourth goal in stoppage time, and Spain’s second goal in the final moments came too late to change the outcome. The La Roja ladies will now battle for bronze against Germany.

Meanwhile, preparations must be in full swing for the USWNT to try to win their historic fifth gold. Though there must be fatigue among players, Hayes wants her side to play as much as they can, without hoping to get a rest.

Emma Hayes wants USWNT to ‘suffer’ despite fatigue woes

Three days have been given to the USA and Brazil to prepare for the finale—a day extra, to be fair. In the previous knockout rounds and group-stage fixtures, only one and a half days were provided to rest, recover, and reset. While it raises concerns, Emma Hayes thinks otherwise.

“I’ve said this all along — the reason I want to play the team together for as long as possible is because I want them to develop that. I want them to suffer. I want them to have that moment because I do not believe you can win without it,” she said.

The close victory over Germany mirrored the USWNT’s quarter-final match against Japan, where they advanced thanks to Trinity Rodman’s late extra-time goal. Although these back-to-back extra-time wins likely left the players fatigued, Hayes wants the team to push through and explore their ‘pain cave.’

Many may argue with Hayes’ approach—especially her ‘no-rotation policy,’ which she has been following adamantly. While we hope it doesn’t backfire on the English manager, it has, on the brighter side, worked wonders for the USWNT.