Episode Details

In today's episode, Liam analyzes the USWNT's opening match of the 2026 She Believes Cup, with a 2–0 win over Argentina that extended their unbeaten start to the year and recorded a third straight clean sheet.

This episode breaks down the performance through a tactical lens, looking at the evolving shape of the team in and out of possession, Lindsey Heaps dropping into build-up, the role fullbacks played pushing high, and how the team's pressing strategy under Emma Hayes evolves with new figures on the pitch.

LDG also assesses defensive structure, second-ball control, and what Kennedy Wesley’s composure on the ball might mean for the center-back depth chart. In midfield, we examine how the Heaps–Yohannes–Moultrie trio functioned and what that says about the evolving hierarchy.

Finally, LDG turns to the upcoming Canada match, which, after their 4–1 win over Colombia, will pose very different tactical problems to the USWNT with stronger midfield duels and a greater threat in transition. He outlines where the U.S. build-up patterns could be stressed, how the wide channels may decide the match, and what rotation decisions could shape the group.

Thank you for listening! Remember to follow us wherever you get your podcasts, on Instagram (@the_womens_soccer_podcast) and Bluesky (@thewomenssoccerpod.bsky.social). In addition, leave a 5-star review and tell all your friends about our show!

ICYMI, here are some of our recent episodes you should bookmark for later!

1. The Ten Big Questions LDG's Asking Ahead of the Year of International Women's Soccer in 2026 (USWNT, 2027 Women's World Cup Qualifying, Spain WNT + more!)
2. We reviewed the 15 biggest moves of the NWSL offseason so far, an episode that perfectly serves as a comprehensive yet not too detailed analysis of the moves that have shaken up the league this offseason.
3. We recently interviewed Charlton Athletic Women Forward Karin Muya. It was such a great conversation, I was honored to work with such a big club, so be sure to check it out!

Music Credit: From Riverside (my podcast recording platform's) available to use audio library