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USWNT World Cup 2023: 5 key players who can help the US win it all

By Oliver Hunt

Apr 11, 2023; St. Louis, Missouri, USA; U.S. Womens National Team forward Sophia Smith (11) leaps past Republic of Ireland Womens National Team defender Louise Quinn (4) during the first half at CITYPARK. Mandatory Credit: Jeff Curry-USA TODAY Sports
Apr 11, 2023; St. Louis, Missouri, USA; U.S. Womens National Team forward Sophia Smith (11) leaps past Republic of Ireland Womens National Team defender Louise Quinn (4) during the first half at CITYPARK. Mandatory Credit: Jeff Curry-USA TODAY Sports /
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May 31, 2023; Bridgeview, IL, USA; Chicago Red Stars goalkeeper Alyssa Naeher (1) prepares to block a shot against Racing Louisville FC during the second half at SeatGeek Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kamil Krzaczynski-USA TODAY Sports
May 31, 2023; Bridgeview, IL, USA; Chicago Red Stars goalkeeper Alyssa Naeher (1) prepares to block a shot against Racing Louisville FC during the second half at SeatGeek Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kamil Krzaczynski-USA TODAY Sports /

Key players for the USWNT at the Women’s World Cup: 1. Alyssa Naeher

At the end of the day, there are games where it comes down to a single moment between a keeper and a player. And in those moments, you want Alyssa Naeher in the net. Headed to her third World Cup, the USWNT veteran just broke the record for the most NWSL saves with over 500 and counting.

In one of the key moments in USWNT history, Naeher denied England a penalty kick to keep the United States ahead in the 2019 semifinal match. This win ultimately propelled them to the Finals where they would emerge four-time World Cup champions. Naeher will have a tough challenge to be the anchor of this relatively young and inexperienced backline, but with her experience, she’s up to the challenge.

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