‘Attack wins you games, defense wins you titles’ is a quote by Sir Alex Ferguson that highlights how integral the backline is when it comes to a soccer team. While goal-scorers often steal the spotlight, every trophy-winning team owes its success to a solid defense. For USWNT head coach Emma Hayes, the sentiment rings true when it comes to her standout defender, Naomi Girma. 

Naomi Girma has enjoyed a ‘golden’ year, securing an Olympic Gold, the SheBelieves Cup, and the CONCACAF Women’s Gold Cup. Hayes called Girma the best defender she’s ever seen. Moreover, when the San Diego center-back heard of her managers’ praise, she was lost for words. 

“It’s really hard to know what to say to that!” Girma told FIFA “It’s just an honor to hear those words from Emma. It’s been amazing to play under her and to play with joy. It’s been really fun.” says the 24-year-old who has also earned a nomination for Best FIFA Women’s Player Award. 

Girma also credited Hayes’ playstyle for helping her elevate her game, allowing her to contribute beyond just defending. “We’ll hold it down for the backline! sometimes we can go under the radar as we’re not the ones scoring goals all the time, but we’re still big parts of the team!” added the center-back. 

And her words rang true as in their latest fixture against the Netherlands, the USWNT scraped a narrow 2-1 win, thanks to an own goal by Veerle Buurman. Since taking over the USWNT, Hayes’ side has remained unbeaten. With Naomi Girma leading the backline, it’s clear why. But the center-back believes she still has a long way to go. 

Naomi Girma set to follow Alex Morgan’s footsteps 

While playing for San Diego, Girma stuck up a close bond with teammate and USWNT legend Alex Morgan and hopes to continue carrying forward Morgan’s legacy. “Alex has been at the top of women’s soccer for so long and had that spotlight on her for so many years,” says Girma. 

She also praises goalkeeper Alyssa Naeher, thanking her for easing her transition into the team. Naeher, who hung up her boots for the Stars and Stripes has also earned a nomination for the Best FIFA Women’s Goalkeeper award. Despite so many nominations, fans expressed their disdain over not seeing their favorites missing on some lists. 

For instance, Naomi Girma was snubbed from the 2024 Ballon d’Or nominations. We are not talking about the top 5 or even 10. She didn’t even make it to the list altogether. Fans expressed their bafflement when Naomi Girma emerged as the only American nominated for FIFPRO’s Women’s World 11. 

While defensive players often miss the spotlight, Rodri’s Ballon d’Or win says otherwise. For Naomi Girma, plenty of awards will follow as she enters her prime, but for now, her focus remains on the pitch.