It is the beginning of a new era for the USWNT. After being carried by some legendary soccer stars over the years, it’s time for an iconic leader to take over. The campaign for the unit under Emma Hayes kicks off soon with the 2024 Paris Olympic games in July and August. But with just under 2 months remaining, it would be interesting to see how the new manager bonds with the team. However, her first step will be the two friendlies against South Korea in a few days. As this could give us a glimpse into her tactics, let us see the options she has from the squad as well as the eleven players she is expected to start in the first game.
The South Korean team failed to qualify for the 2024 games in Paris after finishing second in their group in the AFC Women’s qualifiers. Nevertheless, nothing will be taken for granted by the 4-time Olympic winners, as this could help them assess their strengths.
What to expect in Emma Hayes’ managerial debut for USWNT
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Injury News
USA
The ongoing NWSL has added an excess burden for the USWNT stars, especially this year. Already having two major international tournaments, the CONCACAF W Gold Cup and the SheBelieves Cup, the playing time in the league was not just called out but also had a few consequences. Star striker Alex Morgan suffered an ankle injury in April and hasn’t played since then and defender Tierna Davidson has also not featured for Gotham FC since April after a thigh issue. More importantly, Alyssa Naeher will also miss the friendlies due to a thigh issue. But both Morgan and Davidson have been included in the roster by Emma Hayes Hayes.
South Korea
No information of injury has been reported with the Asian team.
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Team News
USA Predicted XI under Emma Hayes: Casey Murphy; Emily Fox, Naomi Girma, Sam Staab, Emily Sonnett; Crystal Dunn, Lily Yohannes, Lindsey Horan; Trinity Rodman, Sophia Smith; and Mallory Swanson.
South Korea Predicted XI: Kim Jung-Mi; Lee Young-ju, Kim Hye-ri, Hong Hye-ji, Won Ju-Eun; Cho So-hyun, Eun-Young Lee, Ji So-yun, Cho So-hyun; Lee Geum-min; and Choe Yu-ri.
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How to watch the game?
The match will kick off at Dick’s Sporting Goods Park in Commerce City, Colorado, on June 1 at 1700 hrs ET/1400 hrs PST. Fans can watch the game live on TNT, Universo, truTV, Max and Peacock.