In the recent friendly match against Argentina, Naomi Girma netted two goals for USWNT. Leading into the friendly, her role was, as usual, to anchor the backline, but she emerged as a game-changer on the scoreboard. This has prompted coach Emma Hayes to call it more than just a brace and is convinced that Girma‘s outing was something extraordinary. Hayes holds Girma in high regard and considers her to be an ideal modern defender by highlighting her aerial strength, determination, and attacking skills. But how has this come to fruition?

Her sharp positioning on set pieces allowed her to seize opportunities from crosses and loose balls, resulting in two unforgettable goals. Her involvement in a third scoring play had coach Hayes playfully declaring it a hat-trick in Girma’s honor.

Emma Hayes’ comment about crediting the goal to Girma highlights her deep appreciation for the grit and determination defenders bring to the game. “As far as I’m concerned, she got the hat trick. It was an own goal because she won the header, and it came off someone else. In my mind, it’s a defender’s hat trick,” Hayes explained. For Hayes, it wasn’t just about the goals themselves but the intensity and presence Girma brought to the field.

Emma Hayes redefines defense for USWNT

For Girma, this praise from Emma Hayes couldn’t have come at a better time. The young defender has shown remarkable form, both with her club and the national team, and her standout performance against Argentina — now dubbed a “hat trick” by her coach — reflects her rapid improvement and growing importance to the USWNT. Under Hayes’ guidance, Girma and the entire backline are set to take on a more proactive role in the team’s offensive strategy, with defenders expected to press forward and score when needed.

For over a decade, the USWNT has been known for its powerhouse offense, but Hayes seems committed to developing a more well-rounded team, one that harnesses the creativity and assertiveness of its defenders. With Girma setting the tone, the backline may become increasingly active in corner kicks, set pieces, and forward runs — a shift that could make the team more unpredictable and versatile, adding a new layer to its already dominant attack.

To Hayes, a good defender isn’t just one who clears the ball, but one who actively contributes to the scoreline, even indirectly. Girma’s ability to transform her defensive prowess into an offensive asset embodies this new vision, setting a standard Hayes hopes the rest of the squad will follow. What are your thoughts on Girna’s outing against Argentina? Let us know in the comment section below!