“So Phallon Tullis-Joyce is the USWNT #1 going forward right?” questioned former USMNT star Stu Holden on X, after witnessing her stunning double save for Manchester United in the FA Cup semifinal against Man City. Well, that was just the cherry on top, as Phallon had already made headlines with a remarkable USWNT debut, sparking a wave of excitement among U.S. Soccer fans, who were quick to rally behind her and send a clear message to Emma Hayes. Now, the latest name joining the chorus of support seems to be none other than Becky Sauerbrunn.

The former Portland Thorns star is also impressed with the 28-year-old’s performance lately, especially with the way the WSL goalie managed her first senior cap with the Stars and Stripes. A 2-0 win was secured by the American ladies against Brazil in the first clash, with Phallon making a lot of saves. But the moment she made the bench for the return clash, a rather 1-2 defeat was endured by the hosts.

Though one match doesn’t define whether Tullis-Joyce has what it takes to retain the USWNT’s #1 spot, Sauerbrunn would still like to bet on the United star. “It’s still such early days but I have to say that I was really impressed with Phallon Tullis-Joyce in that first game,” the 39-year-old began while speaking on The Women’s Game podcast.

While highlighting Phallon’s “commanding presence” throughout the game, Becky praised the goalie’s fearless approach to successfully deny any kind of potential conversions from crosses by stepping forward, especially keeping a good follow-up on the close spaces. “She had clean hands; wasn’t boggling things. She seemed to make really good decisions with her feet on when to go long or when she should try to play out,” added the retired center back.

Again insisting that it’s still early to make an overall judgment on the goalie, Becky concluded, “Phallon’s stock rose and I definitely think she deserves another look.” Interestingly, joining the chorus was also co-host Sam Mewis. She admitted to having become a “huge fan” of Phallon with all other supporters.

Praising the New York native’s aggressive approach, Mewis praised her for showcasing her remarkable antics for United in the FA Cup. Backing her case, the former midfielder added, “Fallon at the very least is in the mix firmly.”

Simply put, the magic has successfully hypnotized the likes of Becky Sauerbrunn and Sam Mewis. Clearly, they can’t seem to stress enough how important a role Phallon can play for the USWNT. Speaking of which, one of her teammates had something to say, just like Hayes herself!

Does Phallon Tullis-Joyce require a performance tweak despite impressing?

“Phallon had an amazing performance. She’s done amazing in the WSL so no surprise there in terms of just how well she did coming out on her first game, first start,” remarked USWNT right back Emily Fox, who was present during the goalkeeper’s debut recently. For someone who faces Tullis-Joyce in the same domestic competition, this makes the Arsenal superstar’s feedback more important.

Even Emma Hayes had her share of praise for the United goalkeeper, applauding the 28-year-old for doing a “tremendous job.” However, the English boss pointed out that Tullis-Joyce still has room to develop, especially when it comes to adapting to a more direct playing style at Manchester United—something that doesn’t entirely match the USWNT’s system.

“Her next step is something I’ve been clear on: her team Man United don’t play a lot of buildup. They tend to go from back to front but her next steps is with pressure being able to make the short passes to come out,” explained Hayes.

Be that as it may, it’s clear that Emma is vary of Phallon’s performance. However, she still wants to introspect in making a final call. Honestly, not a bad choice, considering there is plenty of time to figure things out. In the meantime, one should hope that Tullis-Joyce keeps making such impression!