USWNT Criticism Misses the Mark: Why the Team Deserves Support, Not Condemnation

The US Women’s National Team’s recent back-to-back losses have triggered an avalanche of criticism from the media and fans alike. But before we declare the crisis program, let’s examine the full context of what this team is enduring both on and off the field.

Putting Recent Results in Perspective

Yes, the USWNT suffered consecutive defeats for the first time since March 2017. However, the immediate proclamations of doom and calls for wholesale changes ignore the extraordinary circumstances surrounding these matches.

With the World Cup still months away, there’s ample time for course correction. More importantly, these results came during one of the most challenging periods in the program’s history.

The Real Story Behind the Struggles

Injury Crisis and Personnel Issues

The team entered this European tour severely depleted:

• Alex Morgan, the team’s primary striker, remained sidelined with injury
• Crystal Dunn was still finding her rhythm after returning from parental leave
• Multiple other key players were dealing with various injury concerns

The Yates Report Fallout

Perhaps most significantly, the team was processing the emotional trauma revealed in the Yates report on NWSL abuse. Released just before the England match, the report detailed years of systematic abuse that many players either experienced firsthand or watched their teammates endure.

The psychological impact cannot be overstated. Players were forced to relive traumatic experiences while trying to perform at the highest level of international competition.

Unfair Criticism of Vlatko Andonovski

Calls for head coach Vlatko Andonovski’s dismissal are particularly misguided. Critics suggest he’s punishing players for speaking out against NWSL abuse, but this couldn’t be further from the truth.

Andonovski faced an impossible task: field a competitive team while protecting the mental health of players dealing with unprecedented trauma. His handling of this delicate situation deserves praise, not condemnation.

Silver Linings Amid the Struggles

Despite the results, several positives emerged from the European tour:

Rising Stars Step Up

• Sophia Smith continued her development as a dynamic striker, showing she can handle the pressure of leading the attack
• Alyssa Thompson, just 17 years old, gained invaluable experience and proved she belongs at this level

Squad Depth Tested

Players who typically see limited minutes got crucial experience, potentially earning spots on the World Cup roster.

Historical Context Matters

American soccer fans have been spoiled by decades of women’s soccer dominance. We’ve forgotten that European nations once ruled both men’s and women’s football before various factors shifted the balance.

Now, the world is catching up. Countries are finally investing properly in women’s soccer, creating more competitive international play. This isn’t a sign of American decline—it’s evidence of global growth.

A Call for Unity and Support

The USWNT faces upcoming matches against Germany in Florida and New Jersey. Instead of criticism, these players need our support during the most challenging period of their careers.

How Fans Can Help

1. Fill the stadiums – Show up in massive numbers for both Germany friendlies
2. Support NWSL playoffs – Back the players, not the failed leadership
3. Stand for 90+ minutes – Create an atmosphere that lifts the team
4. Show unity – Put aside differences and support these brave women

The Bigger Picture

These players are victims of systemic failures, yet they continue to represent our country with dignity. They’re playing not just for results, but to heal—both individually and collectively.

Rather than adding to their burden with harsh criticism, we should recognize their courage in continuing to compete while processing trauma that would sideline most people entirely.

Moving Forward

The USWNT remains one of the world’s elite teams, even during this difficult period. With proper support from fans and media, plus time to heal and regroup, there’s every reason to believe they’ll return to their winning ways.

The World Cup is still months away. Instead of panic, let’s show patience. Instead of criticism, let’s offer support. These women have given everything for American soccer—now it’s time we give something back.

#MentalHealthMatters #WeAreUnited #USWNT