Considered a part of the devastating ‘Triple Espresso’ trio, Mallory Swanson remains the first name on the USWNT team sheet. Emma Hayes loves her direct approach and her winning goal in Paris earned them the Olympic gold medal. So, we can be indebted to her for providing the spark and leading USWNT back to the glory days. In fact, one more crucial factor comes into play for the USWNT during the upcoming friendlies.
Mallory Swanson will earn her 100th cap for her country, a proud achievement for a player who is just 26. How many young players you know have reached these many caps for the USWNT in their career? Barely a few. If she goes at this pace, Swanson could break Kristine Lilly’s all-time record. Well, let’s not get ahead of ourselves and celebrate Swanson’s latest feat.
Appearing on the episode 17 of Futbol W, Swanson detailed her thoughts regarding her latest accomplishment. She stated, becoming consistent throughout her career to achieve the goal, “Yeah, I think it means a lot. I think that it means it’s always hard to just stay consistent on this national team. So, that means a lot.”
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With the USWNT having a conveyor belt of top talents coming to the foray, keeping yourself consistent remains critical for the team. Like most teams, if you are consistent, you get picked. If you’re not, sorry, the back door is right there! Swanson got her roles right with the player providing 37 goals and 31 assists in 99 appearances for her nation. Those are ridiculous numbers!
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She continued, “I was able to do that. But also, that I was just able to have so many different memories and cherish so many different things, with so many different great players and staff that have surrounded me throughout the time.” Making memories counts for the players to enjoy their soccer career apart from all the pressure. Moreover, she has some records to keep an eye on before she retires.
Can Mallory Swanson reach the all-time USWNT caps record?
If you look at the all-time cap holder for the USWNT, Kristine Lilly stands alone with 354. Saying it again, 354! She made her debut in 1987 and for 23 years as the player stole the limelight. Furthermore, her leadership is truly remarkable, and she actually holds the record for being the most-capped player in all sports, including both men and women. To sum up, we don’t think any player can match Lilly’s record. But one thing Swanson can match could be Kristine Lilly’s 130 goals.
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What’s your perspective on:
Is Mallory Swanson the key to USWNT's return to glory, or just another fleeting star?
Have an interesting take?
With Alex Morgan retiring with 123 goals, we expect Swanson to lead the line for a long time. Along with Sophia Smith and Trinity Rodman, the USWNT front three are set. They have fire to burn and remain passionate about making a difference to the team at every given opportunity.
Hence, it will be a celebration when the USWNT takes on Iceland and Argentina in the Olympics Victory Tour. We could probably see Swanson appear for the 100th time amidst grand celebrations.
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Debate
Is Mallory Swanson the key to USWNT's return to glory, or just another fleeting star?