USA Squad Announced for Women’s World Cup 2023: Alex Morgan and Megan Rapinoe Included
The United States has revealed its squad for the upcoming Women’s World Cup, and it includes seasoned players Alex Morgan and Megan Rapinoe. Both Morgan, 33, and Rapinoe, 37, were key contributors to the USA’s victorious campaigns in the 2015 and 2019 World Cups, and this will mark their fourth appearance in the prestigious tournament. Another veteran, 34-year-old defender Kelley O’Hara, will also be representing the USA for the fourth time, while 14 players will be making their tournament debuts for the defending champions.
Expressing her excitement, Morgan stated, “It’s always a special moment to make a major tournament.” She further shared the anticipation and eagerness she feels for her fourth World Cup, stating that the excitement is as strong as it was during her first tournament.
However, the USA will be without their captain, Becky Sauerbrunn, who was ruled out due to a foot injury. USA manager Vlatko Andonovski expressed his disappointment, acknowledging Sauerbrunn’s absence and the impact it will have on the team. Andonovski plans to discuss with the team leaders before announcing a replacement captain.
Injuries have also affected the squad, with forward Mallory Swanson, and midfielders Sam Mewis and Catarina Macario unable to participate due to their respective injuries.
Andonovski has selected nine players from the 2019 World Cup-winning squad, including Rapinoe, who had an exceptional tournament and was awarded the Ballon d’Or, Golden Boot, and Golden Ball in France. Despite suffering a calf injury recently, Rapinoe is expected to feature in the USA’s friendly match against Wales.
Andonovski highlighted that Rapinoe may have a different role in this World Cup compared to previous tournaments. He emphasized her importance as a leader on and off the field, highlighting the value of her performances for the team.
Rose Lavelle, a former midfielder for Manchester City, had been a doubt for the tournament due to her absence from competitive play since April. However, Andonovski expressed confidence, stating that they expect Lavelle to have playing time in their send-off game.
Alex Morgan, who briefly played for Tottenham in 2020, has been a consistent force for the USA, scoring 121 goals in 206 appearances. She is anticipated to play a crucial role in the team’s pursuit of success this summer.
The Women’s World Cup, set to take place in Australia and New Zealand, will commence on July 20, with the USA’s first match against Vietnam scheduled for July 22.
Sophia Smith, a forward for the Portland Thorns, is among the 14 players who will be making their first World Cup appearance. Smith’s impressive performances in the NWSL earned her the title of Most Valuable Player in 2022. With 12 goals in 29 appearances for the USA, she has been identified as a rising star to watch out for.
Expressing her joy, Smith stated, “It’s something I’ve dreamed of.” She acknowledged the stress and anxiety leading up to the squad announcement but affirmed her pride in her role and her readiness to embrace the pressure and spotlight that come with representing her country.
Below is the complete squad representing the USA in the World Cup:
Goalkeepers: Aubrey Kingsbury (Washington Spirit), Casey Murphy (North Carolina Courage), Alyssa Naeher (Chicago Red Stars)
Defenders: Alana Cook (OL Reign), Crystal Dunn (Portland Thorns), Emily Fox (North Carolina Courage), Naomi Girma (San Diego Wave), Sofia Huerta (OL Reign), Kelley O’Hara (NJ/NY Gotham FC), Emily Sonnett (OL Reign)
Midfielders: Savannah DeMelo (Racing Louisville), Julie Ertz (Angel City), Lindsey Horan (Lyon), Rose Lavelle (OL Reign), Kristie Mewis (NJ/NY Gotham), Ashley Sanchez (Washington Spirit), Andi Sullivan (Washington Spirit)
Forwards: Alex Morgan (San Diego Wave), Megan Rapinoe (OL Reign), Trinity Rodman (Washington Spirit), Sophia Smith (Portland Thorns), Alyssa Thompson (Angel City), Lynn Williams (NJ/NY Gotham)
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Women’s World Cup squad
Who are some key players named in the USA squad for the Women’s World Cup?
Alex Morgan and Megan Rapinoe are among the key players named in the USA squad for the Women’s World Cup. They have been part of the USA teams that won the 2015 and 2019 World Cups and have significant experience in international tournaments.
Will Alex Morgan and Megan Rapinoe be playing in their fourth Women’s World Cup?
Yes, both Alex Morgan and Megan Rapinoe will be participating in their fourth Women’s World Cup. They have been instrumental in the USA’s previous successes and will bring their expertise and skills to the tournament once again.
Who will be the captain of the USA team in the absence of Becky Sauerbrunn?
The replacement captain for the USA team in the absence of Becky Sauerbrunn has not been announced yet. The decision will be made after discussions with the team leaders, and the new captain will be revealed in due course.
Are there any notable injuries affecting the USA squad?
Yes, there are some injuries impacting the USA squad. Captain Becky Sauerbrunn, forward Mallory Swanson, and midfielders Sam Mewis and Catarina Macario will be absent due to their respective injuries. However, the team remains confident in the abilities of the selected players and is prepared to face the challenges ahead.
Who are some promising newcomers in the USA squad?
Among the promising newcomers in the USA squad for the Women’s World Cup is Sophia Smith, a forward from the Portland Thorns. She has been recognized as the NWSL’s Most Valuable Player in 2022 and is expected to make an impact with her skills and goal-scoring ability.
When does the Women’s World Cup start and who will the USA team face in their first match?
The Women’s World Cup is set to start on July 20. The USA team’s first match will be against Vietnam on July 22. The tournament will take place in Australia and New Zealand, providing an exciting platform for teams to compete for the prestigious title.
More about Women’s World Cup squad
- FIFA Women’s World Cup Official Website
- USA Soccer Official Website
- Alex Morgan – Official Website
- Megan Rapinoe – Official Twitter
- Portland Thorns FC Official Website
- NWSL Official Website
- Becky Sauerbrunn – Official Instagram
- FIFA Women’s World Cup 2019 – Recap
