Can we just take a moment to appreciate Emma Hayes?! It was just months ago she left Chelsea Women, leading the Blues to yet another WSL title in May. Fast forward to two months later, the English tactician is now contesting for the gold medal in the Paris Olympics 2024 with the US Women’s National Team. While many are still trying to find a perfect word to describe Coach Hayes’ short-term achievement, she has just one thought; “What a whirlwind!”

Ahead of facing Brazil at Parc des Princes, the 47-year-old took a moment to realize how quickly she brought a turnaround for the American ladies. “I might make a trivial pursuit question one day!” remarked Hayes, as compiled by the Lancashire Telegraph. “Going from my beloved Chelsea to the United States women’s national team, what a whirlwind, what a dream all at once,” she added.

A year ago, the USWNT was down in the dumps following a poor 2023 World Cup exit. However, they are now one step away from not only etching their names as the invincibles by winning a historic fifth gold but also regaining the dominance they once had in the world of women’s soccer. “To finish my time at Chelsea with another WSL title and then be here competing for gold, honestly this is the stuff dreams are made of.”

Notably, it was quite a journey for USWNT in the summer games. They curtained the group stage on a perfect note, winning all three fixtures against Zambia (3-0), Germany (4-1), and Australia (2-1). The knockout stages also proved favorable yet strenuous. Two consecutive narrowly extra-time victories came in the quarterfinals vs Japan and a semifinal vs Germany.

The ladies eventually made it to the final where they’ll now be facing Brazil. While the preparations must be tight for the USA ahead of the crucial face-off, Hayes is busy tipping a hat to a rival player.

Emma Hayes in a dilemma as she faces the ‘extraordinary’ Marta, who looks to get a perfect farewell

Emma Hayes will be crossing paths against Marta after 17 years. Their initial encounter was during the British tactician’s time as an assistant to coach Vic Akers at Arsenal, and the face-off occurred during a two-legged women’s cup final against Marta’s Umea, which the Gunners eventually won 1-0 on aggregate. Of course, the young Marta had left Hayes in disbelief. “I remember being on the touchline thinking, ‘Oh my goodness, who is this extraordinary player?’” said Hayes.

On Saturday, both will face each other again. Though Emma wishes to clinch a statement victory against Brazil, it may come at the cost of seeing Marta get a heartbreak. If Brazil triumphs, they will not only secure their first Olympic gold medal but also provide Marta with the perfect send-off that fans have long wished for. The 38-year-old forward plans to retire after the final, making it her last major international tournament. Be that as it may, it remains to be seen which team goes all the way to win gold.