Futbol W: Gotham FC Upset!

12:47Cristina Alexander:Yeah, I think just a collective team effort. I think it's tough in the middle of your domestic season to have a match this big in the start of other teams' preseason year. So I think for Arsenal in the middle of the season, having a tough game coming up on the weekend domestically, trying to get back up to the top of the table, you know, having all the depth they have, but they have to, you know, stay fit and healthy. And then having a game like this, extremely important. This is now, you know, one of the, it's a milestone for the women's club. And they've, you know, won a lot in recent years.

13:26Cristina Alexander:And so I'm excited to see that, you know, they continue down this path, but they deserved it. They played a back and forth game. It was very transitional. They created opportunities. They finished opportunities. Obviously, they conceded late in the match, which I'm sure was really difficult for them. But to have that mentality to come back and to stay in it to the very end and be able to finish and win the first ever trophy. Yeah, that was pretty incredible from a group who's been successful quite often in recent years.

14:00Sophia Wilson:Yeah, and who has dealt with the pressure, too. I mean, their biggest star is obviously participating in a summer tournament with the Euros. So they've been pretty busy up to this point and still expected to perform. But with this title, I mean, the world title, right? In a sense, Ali, are they really the world's best at this moment for you?

14:20Cristina Alexander:I've been watching the WSL and I think Man City. Obviously, their mentality is on a different level at this moment. And I think, obviously, Arsenal winning the Champions League last season. Domestically, I don't think they're quite there this year. It proves that with the points that they have and where they are on the table. But that doesn't mean that as a club and as a whole with the players and the quality that they have, that they can't be that team, the best team, club team in the world. They've proven that. And right now they are. And we'll see coming up in the Champions League if they can get past the playoff matches to see if they can get back to where they want to be.

15:01Cristina Alexander:But they've taken a dip, I think, this year, especially domestically and within the Champions League because they aren't in the top four. They were number five. So I do think they have some play to prove. And they need to get back to where they want to be. But this is a starting point. And I think they have such quality. They have great depth. They have the players there. They have the personnel to do it. And now they just have to figure out how to make it click again. But they are one of the best in the world. There's no doubt there. And it was great to see that they could win this tournament that was, you know, now just huge for them as champions.

15:43Cristina Alexander:I think they've won now at every level. But it's exciting to see the success of the club and the success of those players specifically. And also for Emily Fox, who went over there to see the success that she's had in the years that she's been there now, too. I think she's performing so well, and I'm just really happy that we have an American player representing us at the world's largest stage.

16:07Sophia Wilson:Yeah, absolutely. You mentioned how they're doing domestically. Just a reminder, fourth place in WSL, 13 points off from the leader, Manchester City. And I want to go there now because of the game that we saw this weekend, a spectacular performance from Manchester City, obviously against Chelsea that wanted to bring a lot more to the table. So let's get into that with what we saw with the WSL here this week. And obviously, we didn't see Arsenal because this game was postponed for them. But obviously, with Manchester City now facing Chelsea, if we can get there now. Because obviously, speaking of Americans, we wanted to see how Sam Coffey was going to do in this matchup as well.

16:47Sophia Wilson:We'll get to that in just a second. But just to wrap up here, what we're talking with Arsenal now at the WSL level and the Champions League level, what is the realistic expectation that we're hoping or that obviously Arsenal are hoping to see at least in WSL?

17:03Cristina Alexander:Well, it's definitely to win. You know, they've proven that, you know, globally or in the European, you know, Champions League, they're capable of winning at the highest level. But now they have to translate that domestically. And we've seen, you know, in recent years, they haven't been able to win. Chelsea's been super dominant in the past six seasons, seven possibly. And now Man City is taking over. And they made that very clear against Chelsea this past weekend, winning 5-1. So I've been, yeah, I've been surprised. But we can't forget that they've had a few injuries, you know, this year to top players.

17:39Cristina Alexander:You know, Kim Little just got back into the squad playing more consistently. And then Leah Williamson obviously was out. And those are two strong leaders that, you know, are the anchors and the spines of the team. So they've been, you know, absent for some of the season, if not most of the first half of the season. So it's difficult when you don't have two of your best players, two of your leaders, being able to continue that success for the team. And I think that that is one of the main reasons. And then personnel, I think that they've, you know, been rotating. And relationship building, I think, is key.

18:18Cristina Alexander:So that's been an effect. And, yeah, just the amount of games that you play. People forget that, you know, there's been so many games added onto the schedule that I think the demands of that mentally and physically have been tough. So, yeah, every year is a new year. So I think that their goal is to obviously win everything. It's a business, especially for one of the best clubs in the world. And I think they have, you know, most of the season left, the second half of the season, which they can climb up to the table. But they have a tough matchup this weekend coming up.

18:56Sophia Wilson:From 30 for 30 Podcasts.

19:06Ali Krieger:Brian Pata, senior defensive lineman from Miami, gunned down.

19:10Sophia Wilson:The key to this case, it's Brian. An hour before he died, he was on the phone arguing with somebody. This might be a hit. You want the truth. They just want a conviction.

19:21Mallory Swanson:Being placed under arrest. We had a killer amongst us. Murder at the U. Listen now.

19:27Sophia Wilson:Manchester City, again, as you mentioned, that big win this weekend. Let's get to the game now with what we saw. Because very early, it was quite clear how this game was going to go. So, Carolyn collects the ball, takes the shot, scores an early one.

19:43Cristina Alexander:She was so impressive. So good. I thought, you know, to myself watching this game that she's kind of back to where she was right before her injury. She was clinical. She was ruthless in front of goal. She created opportunities for them to be successful. They seemed the mentality was just there. And obviously, Bunny Shaw doing what she does best, being able to finish in these really difficult spaces. She's so strong. She's powerful. Oh, this goal, Allie. This looks like a Kristen Press run from 50-yard out. Yes, it does. But well done by her, because that's not easy to do. Nope. To stay in front of the defender, to be able to cut the defender off, to give yourself more of an opportunity to score.

20:26Cristina Alexander:She takes this well in to her own half. And Chip's the goalkeeper here. It was just beautiful to watch. And you could see she's having fun as well. She's enjoying the game, and she's playing well because of that. To be able to finish against you know. A Chelsea team who has the quality that they have. This was super impressive. I felt like she's back to where she wants to be. More consistent more dominant and obviously scoring goals.

20:57Sophia Wilson:And here's Alyssa Thompson to taking a shot from top of the box getting one back. For Chelsea.

21:03Cristina Alexander:Yes well done by her obviously it was already for for nothing at that point. The right foot too. Yeah. But she's done so well. I'm really excited for her to continue to show what she can do and what she does best as well. Yeah, but Man City said, no, let's get one back from Vivian Vienma. Yeah, she's a pure goal scorer as a knack for goal. Well done by the team as a whole. They created the chances, they were able to finish the chances, and they're proving exactly why they're at the top of the table.

21:36Sophia Wilson:Yeah, sometimes the stats really don't reflect the game we saw. I think it's very true, at least when we focus on possession. The shots on target, I will believe you, with the amount of goals that we saw, at least on the Manchester City side. But we obviously know that this was a blow for Sonia Bompassor, who had this to say after the game.

21:53Ali Krieger:A lot of things could be said. And, yeah, as I said already, sometimes I like to keep that more private with the board, with the players and the staff. But I think, obviously, as you can see, maybe also the squad is not the same as last season. I think a lot of people talk about Chelsea being an example in terms of having depth in the squad, having a lot of different profiles who can bring a big impact when they come in the game. And I think right now probably we are not in that place. I'm not saying it will explain everything, but probably also being in that position doesn't help. And of course, as a manager, I will always assume the results of this team.

22:34Ali Krieger:So I need to focus also on what are the solutions for me to bring to this team for us to be in a lot better place. I'm really confident in terms of I'm someone really honest. I think, yeah, in the club, if people think I'm not the right person to stay for this job, I'll be happy to go if they think that's the right thing. But I will never give up. I know football sometimes it happens. Like you can be in this situation. I will always fight. But again, like the institution in Chelsea is a lot more important than myself.

23:05Sophia Wilson:She sends two very big messages. I want to start on the player side of things. And obviously, you know what it's like to be in a locker room, to sometimes hear your coach in a press conference. As a player, what is it like to hear something that Sonia Bonpastor just said? Well, this squad isn't the same as it was last year. Our depth isn't as impressive.

23:25Cristina Alexander:Yeah, I think that's obvious. No squad is going to be the same year to year. But you have to have that mentality and that discipline every single game in order to be able to perform your best. And I don't think that, you know, the squad always has to be the same in order to have relationships that are of quality and that are good enough. And also the mentality is key. The defensive discipline just wasn't there. We saw that with the goals. It looked so disconnected, so disoriented. I think there were defensive breakdowns that were exported repeatedly. and that became a pattern. And so they have quality players.

24:04Cristina Alexander:They have the depth. They have answers for every position, two players per position on the field. They have to be able to figure that out. They're some of the best players in the world playing at the highest level. And I think that that's just, that's not good enough for me to be able to say, you know, the team's different from year to year, of course. But, you know, you're leading the team. You're putting the players out there. There's personnel that you have of quality that they have to be able to figure it out. Saying after a 5-1 loss, though, is alarming. Yeah, that is alarming, especially from, you know, the leader of your team.

24:42Cristina Alexander:So I'm sure they're going to have to go back and really take a deep dive into the video and watch the game. Because to me, it looked like the mentality just wasn't there. The discipline wasn't there. The effort seemed to be lacking. The urgency. I think Man City just put them on their heels right from the beginning and didn't give up. The transition pace just was off. I think they couldn't figure out, even at halftime going in, to be able to apply what they needed to adjust, what they needed to change, just didn't happen. And that's why the goals kept going in the back of the net. Yeah. So I think that's too much of an excuse.

25:30Cristina Alexander:I think the players also need to take some responsibility and be a little bit more aware in the game itself, in real time, to be able to adjust. So it's surprising coming from her.

25:43Sophia Wilson:Yeah, and she's being very transparent and also looking at herself in the mirror and saying, you know, if I'm not right for this job, I will also put the club above myself. Is Chelsea at that point, though, to be thinking about a change with Sonia Bompostor?

25:57Cristina Alexander:No, I think that's a bit dramatic. I think that's a bit surprising that she had said that. I'm thinking to myself, yeah, of course, teams with some of the best coaches in the world lose this amount. Not often, but it happens, and it can happen. It's not unusual. I've lost, I think, 6-1. That was probably the worst loss I've ever had in my career, maybe 6-7-1 to North Carolina Courage, I think the years that they were thriving. But it doesn't mean that you have to fire everyone and bring in new people. It's just having to go back and really discovering what you're good at to begin with and why you're there and go back to the drawing board and figure out the details.

26:40Cristina Alexander:Watch the video. Watch, you know, make sure that the players understand their responsibilities, their roles, what's expected of them again. I don't think that it should be as dramatic as, all right, I'm going to leave and someone else can take over. That's not the answer. You're there for a reason because you're good at your job. And this is, you know, obstacles that happen throughout the season. And there's adversity that happens. But now you have to be resilient. And now you have to figure out why there were breakdowns in the game so often.

27:10Sophia Wilson:Yeah. I mean, I think one of the whys is definitely the day that Carolyn had that we just saw with that amazing hat trick. I mean, what do you make of her performance, Alex?

27:20Cristina Alexander:I mean, she's had the game changer energy. She didn't, you know, chase that moment. She owned it for Man City. I think that there was sharp decision-making in big moments. She took chances. Yes, there was a slight deflection here, but she's back to the Caroline that we all saw her with MVP, NWC MVP year that she had with North Carolina Courage. You look how confident she is in the way that she's scoring goals, dominating, getting in positions to receive the ball. confident on the ball, taking players 1v1, getting in positions in the goal to be able to put the ball in the back of the net. She was brilliant.

28:00Cristina Alexander:And I don't think the confidence ever dipped under that pressure that was there. I feel like it went up for her confidence. She's a player that's built for these elite matchups, right? You want her on your team. I know the past couple years she's been up and down, right? She hasn't been as consistent in the Carolyn that we know from the NWSL. But it takes a long time getting back from an ACL injury. And you have to give player that grace and that time. The return to play process is long. It's not the same for everyone. And now we see her just thriving. I think the hat trick just solidified why she should be there, why she deserves to be there, and why she's back.

28:39Cristina Alexander:So it's amazing to see. I was so happy for them. Also for Sam Coffey to jump into the game, to solidify the win, to hold that structure, that confidence there in the midfield. I think she's, you know, just looks like she's at home. She fits right in. And I'm really excited to continue to see if, you know, they continue to step away from the second-best team in the league.

29:02Sophia Wilson:Yeah, absolutely. I mean, quite the weekend that Manchester City had. And actually, for them, the 11-point lead, we talked about it in comparison, obviously, to Arsenal. 13 points clear, but an 11-point lead. So this obviously leads me to my next question, Allie. Is the title race over? It's never over until it's over.

29:23Cristina Alexander:Until you solidify. Does it feel like it's over? I hope so because the way that Man City's been playing all season, you know, just has been brilliant. And it's been confident. It's been consistent. The mentality is there. The effort is there. The way that they play, I think the structure has benefited a lot of the personnel. So they've gotten that right. I think the style is enjoyable to watch. So the connections that you see and the goal scoring opportunities that they're creating goes hand in hand. And that's why I think they're at the top of the table. But from the very first whistle of that match watching this past weekend, you could see such a huge difference in the mentality and the urgency and just the confidence they had while they were on the ball.

30:14Cristina Alexander:Defensively, yes, they were able to get numbers behind the ball quickly, which I don't think Chelsea did that at all during the entire game. But Man City really put them on their heels, and they didn't stop. They were ruthless the entire match. And that was something that was just really refreshing to see because I don't think of Man City we've seen that in the past as often. But now this was just they had a complete game performance, and that's why they won the way they did. And Chelsea, to be honest, had no answer for Caroline. They had no answer. She punished them on every opportunity and proved it.

30:51Sophia Wilson:Yeah, I mean, that run says everything about the confidence and about the lack of the defensive play that we didn't see here from Chelsea that you're mentioning. With that confidence, Manchester City, as we can see, atop the table very comfortably for now. But as Ali mentioned, it's not over till it's over. Manchester United knows that, trying to play a little bit of catch-up. Chelsea isn't far behind and obviously it's a very interesting 4 and 5 there with Arsenal and Spurs following closely behind. And you can follow the Women's Super League closely here, obviously on ESPN Plouts and streaming live on the ESPN App.

31:30Sophia Wilson:Arsenal vs Manchester City Sunday 7am Eastern. See you there. We'll see you next time.

32:05Ali Krieger:Our Empfehlung for your podcast? Fresh meat and delicious food from Aldi. Always good, always good, always good. Always good, always good. Just a fresh for everyone. This week, Tafel Trauben 500 Gramm for just 1 ,69 Euro. Or Avocado, that piece for just 99 Cent. Find now many other offers in your Aldi Nord-File. And now it's just a listen and enjoy. Aldi. Good for everyone.

33:04Ali Krieger:wise.

33:16Ali Krieger:Substitution into the game and Crystal Dunn, her debut for Team USA. A prolific score for the under 20 team and another member of the University of North Carolina.

33:34Ali Krieger:Dunn spun away, looking, shooting! Dunn with a goal!

33:49Sophia Wilson:Crystal Dunn officially announced her retirement on Thursday. The World Cup champion, Olympic gold medalist, golden boot and MVP at the NWSL level with Washington spirit will be hanging up her boots. The U.S. women's national team legend had a total of 160 caps, 25 goals. So let's hear from her former teammates now on her retirement.

34:12Cristina Alexander:I want to talk about just one of our former teammates to just announce her retirement, Crystal Dunn, and just get your thoughts on that and how she has impacted you maybe both on and off the field and what you feel about her retirement.

34:24Ali Krieger:Yeah, I mean, sad. I'm sad that all y 'all veterans are kind of retiring at the same time It makes me really sad, but I'm also so happy for her. She had the most amazing career, and I think I talk about this a lot,

34:37Sophia Wilson:just her type of leadership was not the kind of stereotypical, like, leadership. It was in actions on the field. I think the amount of tackles that she had, I mean, you know,

34:49Ali Krieger:to save our butts and having to be pulled out of position sometimes I think was amazing, but also the fun she brings to the team. Her and Pino both at Duo was amazing, and I think we'll definitely miss her, but I'll try to help with that for sure. But, yeah, she was the most amazing to play with, and I'm so grateful that I got to play a couple years with her. She's had an amazing career, and I had the pleasure of being able to be her teammate and share the field with her, and just another person who really brought the joy to what they did every day, but also the ultimate competitor. I think off the field is what I love about Crystal, like in the locker room always dancing just the impact that she has had in so many different people's lives and different communities and stuff has been so like inspiring.

35:36Ali Krieger:Being able to actually be a teammate with her for a couple camps really made a huge impact on me she was the team DJ the vibes girl and the team dancer and that is something that I will forever carry with me and think Crystal was this so someone needs to fill that role.

35:54Mallory Swanson:I mean I don't even have enough words to talk about Chris. She is like a big sister to me. I feel like I got to be her teammate in a really unique part of her life. Obviously when she was pregnant with Marcel and had Marcel I got to see firsthand what it's like for an elite athlete to become a mom and that was so inspiring to me obviously she's who I literally got to see do and then knew I could do myself she is just the most charismatic energetic just like beautiful person who has control the

36:37Cristina Alexander:docks now that she's gone. You do. Yeah.

36:45Sophia Wilson:I love that so much. I mean, obviously on the field, let's talk about her notable career accomplishments. 2019 World Cup champion. She's a 2024 Olympic gold medalist. 2020, she won that Olympic bronze. 25 goals and 160 caps with Portland Thorns. She was the 2022 NWSL champion and also a 2021 Shield and Challenge Cup winner with North Carolina Courage, two-time NWSL and two-time NWSL Shield champion. And at the University of North Carolina, a 2012 NCAA women's soccer champion. I mean, she did it all. She truly did it all. I really want to start. There's so much to break down. I'm so glad you're here.

37:33Sophia Wilson:And I asked you right before we came on here because you've talked to me about Crystal Dunn, the human. I don't think you've ever mentioned me to her about her play just because of the human being that she is. So let's start there, Allie. What does Crystal Dunn mean to you, to the world of football and now her hanging up her boots?

37:51Cristina Alexander:Well, I think of her obviously as a human first. She was she's one of my best friends. I was in her wedding, which was such an honor to be a bridesmaid. And we played on Washington Spirit together with our first experience in the league. And it was just incredible to see her growth because she was so versatile. I mean, she redefined what versatile means in this game. And obviously, you know, her just being as cool, confident, collected every single moment. She was so consistent. I think I'll never forget the year that 2015 when she unfortunately hadn't made the World Cup team that year. She went off and got MVP of the league that year, scored however many goals.

38:37Cristina Alexander:I think Golden Boot MVP. And just was incredible. So the way that she, you know, continued to grow, get better, not only as a footballer, but as a human being and just has always been in my corner, has always supported me since day one. I love her dance moves. I love how dynamic she is and how just brilliant she is on the ball. She always made any pass look good. She made the team so successful. She scored in big moments. There's so many great things to say about her. And just as a human, she is so humble. She's the first one to want to help and give a hand. I know the game is going to miss her so much I know the fans are going to miss her so much I was so lucky enough to see her every day To play alongside her, to call her a teammate But ultimately super proud to call her a friend She left the game better than where she found it And also to hear Mallory and Sophia talk about How they saw being a mom could be possible because of her and that was going on in real time for them and they saw the day-to-day you know operations of of how you know she she was in camp and then just with club being able to bring Marcel along and to be able to give them that that you know motivation and confidence to do it too so I think the world of her and she's been an incredible teammate an incredible friend we live like four minutes away from each other so i'm so excited to continue to you know meet up have brunch go out to dinners uh hang out with the kids and um yeah she's the game's brilliant because of

40:25Sophia Wilson:her yeah truly hearing sophia wilson obviously talk about her becoming a mom i mean goosebumps and and that's really impressive for crystal dunn to do that because i mean i don't know the experience that she had obviously before before but as a professional athlete obviously it's a completely different thing so when it comes to her being an example on and off the field with U.S. Women's National Team Legends where would you rank her Allie?

40:53Cristina Alexander:I mean coaches and players trusted her anywhere she's you know she was one of the first players on the team sheet She, I remember, just played either right back, left back, anywhere in the midfield. She could play all three positions in the front line. She scored all the goals. She was the connector. She ran back countless times to defend, to make sure that she would double team on many occasions. She was just phenomenal and an amazing person. She made everyone laugh. Everyone was so hyped to go out to play games because she was on the Aux and did the playlist for the locker room. So she was just an all-around incredible teammate, and she's a beautiful person.

41:44Cristina Alexander:And I would rank her top five easily, top three that I've ever played with, top five overall in the world.

41:53Sophia Wilson:I do want to clarify the Aux is the Aux cable. for the younger generation. It's like, who has control of the Bluetooth speaker? Yes. It's a cable that we use to connect in our cars. But I digress. Congratulations to Crystal Dunn. She's your neighbor. She can ride with you here at Football W anytime she wants. Allie. I'm going to drag her here. Oh, yeah.

42:16Cristina Alexander:Yeah, Tuesday nights.

42:19Sophia Wilson:So excited to have her soon on Football W. I'm just going to speak that into existence. So excited for what's to come. NWSL is back. March 14th on ABC, Boston Legacy versus Gotham FC. So excited for that. 1230 p.m. Eastern. I hope it's not that cold, but then again, it is Boston. Mallory Swanson looking to make her way back here this season for NWSL. We didn't see her last season, obviously, with Chicago for the best reason ever because she became a mom and she sat down with another mom, Allie Krieger.

42:54Cristina Alexander:Mal Swanson, welcome back. Thanks. I'm so happy to see you. Before we get into all the football talk, I just want to ask, how are you? How is it being a new mom? And yeah, what's been going on in the past few months?

43:09Ali Krieger:I'm good. Yeah, I think, you know, being a new mom, it's like, whoa, you know, it's like, oh my gosh, you don't realize until you're in it. All the things and it's like this crazy concept of like you're so thankful and so grateful and like it's like the best thing ever but it's also the most challenging like I've been stretched you know and like the no sleep you're like oh my gosh I'm keeping this little human alive but also it's just like there's so much love there it's it's so amazing and um yeah it's been nice kind of just like being in a little newborn bubble surviving in that.

43:51Cristina Alexander:Is there anything that has surprised you from, you know, not really knowing the challenges of being a mom before that you might not have thought of?

44:02Ali Krieger:I don't know if there's anything that surprises me, but I, like, my appreciation for moms, like, literally has, like, skyrocketed from my sister to you to, like, my own mom, my mother-in-law, like, literally, like, just the appreciation that I have for a mom is like it's just gone through the roof.

44:25Cristina Alexander:The last year has been a different kind of journey for you and I know you just touched on that a little bit but becoming a mom and stepping away you know from on field how has that time changed your perspective specifically about football and then about yourself?

44:40Ali Krieger:Yeah I think it's made me realize like how much I love the game um and obviously like stepping away and like creating life and becoming a mom has been so amazing but I'm just like so excited to now be able to step into coming back and then having Josie be right along my side and just like um seeing all the other moms that have done it before has given me like it can it can you can do it like it's possible um and yeah i'm just like so excited what did you miss the most when you were watching from the sidelines i missed my teammates and like just like the everyday like laughs and even just like the challenges of like going through a season together

45:34Cristina Alexander:um yeah and as you prepare for your return later this season um what has this phase looked like for you like physically mentally and as you reconnect with the player you know that you are

45:46Ali Krieger:now how is that process yeah I think I got a couple advice from a couple coaches that our moms and they both were like the first like three months like really just like slow down like it's a lot your body goes through a lot and you're not really going to get those moments back so like really like slow down and that's what I've kind of been trying to do but also like having the balance of being eager and like excited to come back and you've been through

46:20Cristina Alexander:a significant injury before in the recovery earlier in your career and now this return looks slightly different. How has that past experience helped shape now, like how you're approaching this comeback?

46:33Ali Krieger:Yeah, I think really just like from the past one, just I learned that like leaning on like your people, leaning on your teammates, the support staff, your family has is like the most important. So doing that now in this fashion, especially with like something like this, I've never gone through this before. It's like completely different than an injury. But yeah, I just like really leaning on the people close to me.

47:01Cristina Alexander:And you've achieved so much already. Olympic gold, major moments, leadership within the national team as well. Has motherhood reshaped how you define success at this specific stage in your career? I think so.

47:15Ali Krieger:I hope it will once I really get back on the field. Because now I'm like, I hope, I mean, Josie's going to, she's like two months old. She's going to, like, when I get back, she's going to be a little bit older, and, like, she won't remember anything, but I hope she can, like, look back and, like, look at it and, like, that my mom came back to do the thing that she loves to do and kind of, like, share those moments with her.

47:42Cristina Alexander:And you had a huge milestone. You've reached your 100th captain, the national team. The milestones few players in this position ever really get to reach. So how do those moments shape how you think about leadership now, especially as you return, you know, in a new role with this group? I think the 100 caps kind of like you realize like the experience that comes with it, you

48:08Ali Krieger:know? Because I remember like when I first got on the national team with you guys, like I was like 100 caps, oh my gosh, that is so... There's ages. Yeah, it's going to be like, oh my gosh. but you kind of just go through it and then all of a sudden it like hits and like you have all this experience so really just like taking that experience and like trying to help the young players that we all were once you know and it kind of just like passes down yeah and Chicago will

48:44Cristina Alexander:obviously welcome you back into a team that's gone through its own challenges I mean you saw directly watching as a supporter this season but even while you were away how have you stayed connected to the group and make sure that it's going in the direction that you know you could find success?

49:02Ali Krieger:Yeah I think definitely there were challenges but also I think with challenges there's growth that happens and just trying to be there with my team as much as I could this past year and go to the home games and just like, yeah, like what you said earlier is like be a supporter. I found myself like being a fan more so than like actually like trying to like give my insight to, but like just like being a genuine like fan of my teammates. So yeah, like kind of like taking that and building into this new chapter and this new season, but also now getting back on the field with that.

49:48Cristina Alexander:What excites you most about rejoining the team and helping shape its next chapter when the time is right for you?

49:58Ali Krieger:Honestly, just being back with my teammates. I feel like just being in the locker room, sharing those laughs, and also just going through a season with people and the challenges that come, the highs that come, just sharing that with people, I feel like it's what I'm looking forward to. And then, of course, like the obvious is like bringing Josie around and having her. I mean, again, she's not going to remember any of it, but just still like just having her around and hopefully bringing like just like good vibes.

50:28Cristina Alexander:I think something that I really enjoyed as a mom when I would bring, you know, Sloan or Ocean around, it was just it took everyone's mind off of that pressure of feeling like you have to, you know, go and perform out on the field. and do your job super well. It's just that you could have a breath and really understand, okay, this is, we're all human and this is like really fun and you kind of take that pressure away, which I thought was really valuable for the group. So I'm excited to see and hear how.

50:59Ali Krieger:Yeah, Emma actually, like when I told her I was pregnant, she was like, you're going to like have a new, whole new perspective on the game. And I feel like it's that perspective. Like you go home and like, okay, whatever happened in training or a game, I mean, like, at the end of the day, like, it really doesn't matter. Like, you go home and your, like, daughter or your kids are sitting there. It's, like, probably the best thing ever. I can't wait.

51:22Cristina Alexander:It's super refreshing. So I'm excited to have you experience that as well. But talking about just the depth within both at the club level and country now, and your position is as strong as it's ever been. How do you view that competition as you work your way back into, you know, the national team picture?

51:43Ali Krieger:Yeah, I feel like it definitely is exciting. I feel like that's my word for the day. I keep saying exciting. Yeah, I think it's just exciting just seeing all the young players in the league just have so much success for both not only in the league but also internationally and also learning from that too. Like, you know, it's like we're all playing the same game and like just because I'm older, like have more experience or this or that, like I can still learn from them. And just like having that mindset of learning and like wanting to grow and wanting to compete. Yeah, going into it.

52:30Cristina Alexander:Has there been any specific player that you've enjoyed watching or that has caught your eye from from afar? I would probably say Mies, Jamees.

52:40Ali Krieger:I'm just a huge fan of Mies I think off the field she's like the sweetest girl has a great heart and then on the field she has so much talent and there's so much potential and I can't wait just to see her tap into that and she already is and I can't wait to just see her grow and also I can't wait to play with her again

53:05Cristina Alexander:Yeah I agree she's been really impressive to watch After Olympic gold, major milestones and just everything you've experienced so far already in your career, what still drives you to keep pushing forward at this level?

53:20Ali Krieger:Yeah, that's a great question. I think now it's like, okay, yeah, all those things came, but now it's like coming back after having Josie. and I think it's really just like showing her that whatever you choose to do in life like you can still be a mom and have passions if you just want to be a mom you can just be a mom I hate that because it's like it's not it's a hard hard job hardest job literally the hardest job Um, but yeah, like just like never like losing what you love, um, to do. And so, yeah. As you look ahead to 2026, um, what are some expectations that you have specifically for

54:10Cristina Alexander:Chicago as a group, but then also, um, you know, expectations for yourself, um, and, and looking ahead to really find success, uh, this year.

54:21Ali Krieger:I think for myself, probably just, like, getting back on the pitch and feeling what it feels like to, like, be a soccer player, you know. And, yeah, just, like, getting back onto the pitch after having a baby, I feel like it's a very big accomplishment. And, again, like, commend all the women that have done it before. Like, it is, like, amazing. And just being a mom and juggling all that is, like, amazing in itself. And then I think for the Stars, it's, like, obviously last year wasn't – it was a tough year just for the club. So just kind of, like, building an identity that we want to hold and achieve.

55:08Ali Krieger:And then I'm always going to say, like, make it to the playoffs and win, you know. Like if the like if that's not the goal, then like, why are you doing it? You know? So, yeah, I think that with the group that we have, that's definitely possible.

55:25Sophia Wilson:Here are her last two seasons in the NWSL. You can obviously see why Chicago really missed having Mallory Swanson on the field, just a leader through and through. I mean, the winning records just dramatically different from that season that she missed, obviously in 2025 so she recognized that but I want to get into what it means to her now making her way back obviously pressure is off for Mallory Swanson for the new moms to to come back obviously on the field we're very excited to see them but Allie what stood out to you the most about this chat you had with Mallory?

56:02Cristina Alexander:I think something that stood out to me just because I could relate a little bit with motherhood and wanting to show your kids that you could do what you love and still be a great mom. And you want to show your kids that they can do anything they want and dream big and do anything that's possible. And I think that's something that she said that she wants Josie to see her every single day to be able to see her mom do what she loves to do and that, you know, being a mom and being a professional athlete can happen. And so I think it was very calm, grounded. She looked, you know, confident and content.

56:41Cristina Alexander:You know, there's no real urgency to get back before the season's first game, right? Because, you know, she has to be smart about the return to play. But something, you know, that stood out also, she looks like a veteran leader now, which She's crazy because she was only 16 when she joined the national team when I was still there. And I just think of her as that 16-year-old phenomenon that was incredible to watch and play alongside and perform with. So it's really great to see her back because then now we know that the triple espresso could be possible. It's obviously going to look a lot different and possibly even better.

57:23Cristina Alexander:now that Sophia and her are moms coming back. They have somewhat of a vengeance and more to prove than ever before. So that's what's also very exciting is that we're seeing the best players in the U.S. come back to the league, and that's what fans and supporters really want. But she looks confident, comfortable, and really excited to get back to Chicago.

57:48Sophia Wilson:Yeah, and she mentioned that conversation she had with Emma Hayes as well. Obviously, that's top of mind with the U.S. women's national team, not only for Emma Hayes, but for Mallory Swanson herself. We're approaching, obviously, the World Cup year, even though it's January 2026. But it's getting to that point, Allie. I mean, what do you expect from her in her return and that impact that she can have with the national team, as you just mentioned as well, being part of the Triple Espresso?

58:14Cristina Alexander:Yeah, I think she believes is a little bit too close for her. Obviously, Josie was only born, what, two months ago, like she mentioned. So, you know, you have to be careful and you have to just take your time. And I'm assuming World Cup is definitely on the table for her. And, you know, that's the decision that she and, you know, Emma have to make together. But it's definitely possible for her to return this season. And it's going to be incredible to see her back, you know, at full strength. And I think motherhood has given her a different perspective, like she said. And I think she really wants to bring a championship back to Chicago.

58:52Cristina Alexander:I think that's the goal. A lot talking to a lot of the other players like Jamis. She was really excited to have this potential about bringing a championship or shield to the city and having a much better season than in the past season. So I'm really excited to see what they can put together. And she is a key component of that for them to have success this year. And I think they struggled without her. So it's nice to see how she's excited about the potential of her return. And I don't think we should put a date on it because we want her at her best. So it's everyone at their own pace. But it's going to be great to see how ready she's going to continue to get.

59:36Sophia Wilson:Yeah, it's important not only physically but also mentally for her to really just respect her own timeline and giving herself grace after what her body just went through. But when it comes to Chicago, obviously looking to have her back as soon as possible, especially with that tough season. And she talked about it at the at the end of the season. It wasn't too terrible for Chicago. They were really stealing points there and making life a little bit difficult for those trying to make it into the postseason. But what can Chicago do now that she will eventually make her way back this season, Allie?

1:00:10Cristina Alexander:Yeah, I mean, they have to be able to, you know, provide her service because she is going to be their key player. She is going to be their goal scorer, their number nine, potentially. She can also play out wide, but she can really play anywhere in the front six. But I'm assuming she will, especially because Ludmila now is with San Diego. And unfortunately, she's left, which is, you know, why they were doing so well and coming back in games last season. But now they don't have that attacking threat. So eventually when Mal gets back into the team, they will have to get players around her that can provide her that service and that quality that she needs in order to get in positions to create goals, you know, goals, goal scoring opportunities and also just create success for the team.

1:00:59Cristina Alexander:She can really create, you know, something out of nothing. So she doesn't need much, but she does need quality players. And hopefully with the personnel that they have, like a Jamisa, that's going to be a really difficult duo to defend. So I'm excited and looking forward to that. But obviously we have to give her some grace because just because she's back doesn't mean she's going to be back to, you know, the now that we're used to. Full 90, you know, minutes are going to be limited. and to be able to feel your body again in those moments of the game is going to take time and it's going to be a process.

1:01:32Cristina Alexander:So we have to allow that process to happen naturally. But obviously she could be even better than she was before. So I'm really, really happy for her. But Chicago really have to provide that person all around her to really give her the best opportunity to be successful. And they have the depth, they have the quality for that. So we'll just see with the new staff and how they come out and put a team together for the games this season.

1:01:59Sophia Wilson:Yeah, from one new mom to another, Sophia Wilson also making her way back. She also missed the 2025 NWSL season to become a mom. The Portland Thornstar exercised her player option for 2026 and sat down to chat with our Allie Krieger.

1:02:18Cristina Alexander:Sophia Wilson, welcome back. It's so exciting to see you. How are you? before we get into the football questions. I mean, I just want to know how your return to play process is and how you're doing.

1:02:30Mallory Swanson:I'm doing so good. I feel honestly happier than I've ever been. I feel complete. Not that I didn't before, but, like, as you know, you just feel, like, so much more full when you have kids. But I feel so good. I'm so happy. Like, I feel healthy. I feel like I have a new excitement for soccer and to just get back with my team. So I'm in a really good place.

1:03:01Cristina Alexander:Have you discovered anything new that maybe you didn't know before becoming a mom that now you're a little bit surprised at?

1:03:10Mallory Swanson:Probably just like how much love I have in me. Like, I didn't know it was possible to, like, love something so much and just be so protective over her. And just, like, nothing else is just quite as important anymore because she's my priority.

1:03:33Cristina Alexander:Moving into football and why we're all here, you exercised your option to return to Portland for the 2026 season. So a significant decision for you and such a strong statement. What went into that choice and why was it important for you to come back and represent Portland?

1:03:53Mallory Swanson:I just think Portland is my home away from home. Like I, it's the only professional team I've played for. I feel like I've almost like grown up there. I entered the draft and got to Portland so young, and I've been through so much, good and bad, in Portland. And I just feel really close to the city, the community. And I feel like this new version of me as a mom, I felt like it only was right to go back to Portland. and I knew that if any place would accept me and be patient with me and be as excited for me as I am for myself, it would be Portland. And it just felt right, like I wasn't ready to say goodbye yet.

1:04:44Cristina Alexander:And you missed last season, obviously because of maternity leave and becoming a mom, but you stayed so closely connected to the group. I mean, I would even see you in photos after the game and be interacting, which was really incredible to see. But how did that time away from the field make you, you know, or change the way you see the game now?

1:05:06Mallory Swanson:I think it was really healthy for me. I feel like probably, I can't even remember the last time I've gone that long without playing soccer, maybe when I got injured in college. but I think it teaches you a lot about who you are just as a person, not necessarily as a soccer player. And just having that time for myself to realize that and even, like, get to know myself better I think was really special and cool. And doing that while growing a little human was just surreal, but it also made me just realize, like, I love this. I love playing, and I want to get back to it. So I think it was really good for me.

1:05:50Cristina Alexander:What did you miss the most about being away and having to watch on the sidelines? Competing. Yeah, just like that urge to, like, just compete.

1:05:59Mallory Swanson:Like, I tried to get it out with my husband and, like, ping pong or, like, pickleball, and it's just not the same.

1:06:07Cristina Alexander:It's not the same. That fire that you have inside you that, you know, comes out in competition. I totally get that. Not much compares to that. But as you prepare to step back, you know, onto the field and within the team, what part of your game are you most excited to reconnect with? And what feels different about you now as that competitor?

1:06:27Mallory Swanson:Ooh, I'm excited to score goals again. Like that feeling when it hits the back of the net, it's just like I can breathe now. I'm excited for that feeling. I'm excited to just be a part of a team again. I love when, like, everything just comes together, everything you've been working on all preseason and every practice. I love when it all comes together and just that feeling of connection.

1:06:52Cristina Alexander:And Portland obviously dealt with injuries and then you were out as well. And now there's roster turnover, but still fought its way back to that playoff contention. From your vantage point, what did 2025 reveal about that resiliency of the group in those moments?

1:07:12Mallory Swanson:Portland has always had a team that can just make it to the end regardless of the circumstances. Like there's been some really hard years and a lot of adversity, but I feel like what's special about every group that I've been a part of in Portland is there's always like heart. There's always a fight and we know that what we have in the locker room is all we need and we lean on that every year, especially when things get tough. So to watch the team last year, despite injuries, despite not having players or changes, whatever it was, they still fought and found a way. And it was inspiring to watch, and I'm excited to be a part of it.

1:07:59Cristina Alexander:And fortunately the season ended with that loss to Washington in the semifinals in such a tough way to fall short. because I think, like you said, there was ups and downs throughout the year, but the resiliency really shined through, and Portland had really figured it out towards the end, which got them there. But how do moments like that shape the hunger of the team heading now into a fresh year?

1:08:22Mallory Swanson:I think it makes you hungrier. I think when you get that close, it hurts for sure, and it lingers, and you never forget that feeling. So going into the next year, it just makes you not want to fall short and do everything just a little bit better, do the details a little bit better, and just take that next step so that you have more success.

1:08:45Cristina Alexander:And this offseason also brought a lot of change within the team just from Sam Coffey, leaving and going to Man City and taking up that opportunity and moving on after being such a steady force in midfield but also captain. So how do you see leadership evolving inside the locker room now that one of the leaders has left?

1:09:08Mallory Swanson:I think the cool part about this sport is that there's so many ways you can lead. It's not necessarily being the loudest in the room or being the most vocal. It's like you can lead by example. You can lead by doing all the little things right. You can lead by how you train. All of those things is what makes a leader. And we have so many unique qualities in the locker room, So there's a lot of leadership in a lot of different ways. Obviously, you can't replace Sam. I mean, we're going to miss her so much. And she was such an important part of the team on and off the field. But it's the sport. You know, people have dreams and goals that they want to achieve, and that might be somewhere else.

1:09:54Mallory Swanson:And I'm excited for Sam. Selfishly, I'll miss her. But we're going to, you know, keep moving. people are going to have to step up in different roles and get the job done regardless.

1:10:07Cristina Alexander:You've watched Olivia Moultrie grow into such a central figure for this team. From your perspective, what does her development mean for the Thorns moving forward?

1:10:18Mallory Swanson:It's great for us. I mean, when I started on the Thorns, it seems like Liv was just so little, and she was just little Liv, and I feel like I've watched her grow up and become just an amazing young woman and an amazing player. And I've seen her develop in a lot of different ways. And I feel like last year she really took it to a new level. And I think a lot of people saw what she could do. And it's great for our team. It's great for the city of Portland. And, yeah, I mean, I'm excited to play with her again. and I'm proud of just everything that she's done since I've known her.

1:11:00Cristina Alexander:And I know that's reciprocating because when I was speaking to her earlier, she was like, yeah, I'm going into my sixth year of the league. And I was like, but you're only 20. I know. I couldn't put two and two together. It was wild. But she was also so thrilled that you're coming back and to have that connection with you in the front line. So that'll be pretty lethal to watch. It'll be fun. But switching gears a little bit to the national team, That pool is as deep as it's ever been. And, you know, there's established stars returning and young players pushing for, you know, hard and for places to be seen there.

1:11:35Cristina Alexander:But how do you approach that level of competition, especially at this stage of your career?

1:11:41Mallory Swanson:I love it. I love competition. I understand that the national team is hard to continue to stay on and to make rosters. And when I was first starting, I mean, I was trying to get into camp with Alex, Tobin, Pino, Kristen, Carly. And I was, like, young. But I loved that. I was like, what better way to learn and grow than from being right here amongst the best players in the world? And I really appreciated that time. So I understand how hard it is and how much time and work and consistency it takes to get on that team, let alone stay on that team for years. And I know that you never really make it.

1:12:33Mallory Swanson:Every roster you have to make, you have to earn. and I think that's what's fun about it. That's what keeps you on your toes and keeps you working hard. So I think it's great. I think seeing all the young, new faces on the team this past year have been, it's been exciting because it just means the team's getting better, players are getting opportunities, and that's the best way to build the pool and create a better team.

1:12:58Cristina Alexander:Has there been any specific player that has caught your eye, so to speak, while you've been watching on the sidelines?

1:13:05Mallory Swanson:I really love Claire Hutton. I feel like she plays so much older than she is. She looks so confident, so comfortable. She's fun to watch. I feel like she's a midfielder I would love to play with. Croy, little baller. She's so fun to watch. I feel like I could go on and on, But everyone who's got the opportunity has done really well and taken full advantage of it.

1:13:36Cristina Alexander:It's definitely exciting to see the future grow. But you've delivered MVP seasons, golden boots, an Olympic gold even. So what still drives you when you wake up every day ready to compete again?

1:13:51Mallory Swanson:Just the feeling that there's no end. Like you can always, always get better. You can always grow in different areas. So it's like there's no finish line. There's no top of the mountain. And I feel like that's exciting for me because it's just like how much better can I keep getting and what does that look like? And, I mean, there's that, but then there's I want to win. Like I don't do all this because I'm just satisfied with just doing it. Like I want to win. And I would say the biggest thing in my head is I want to win a World Cup. Like, that would be, like, check, I feel good. Like, I'm in a good place.

1:14:36Mallory Swanson:But there's obviously all the little goals in between here and then and just growing every day and becoming the best version of myself.

1:14:47Sophia Wilson:I'm very excited to obviously see Sophia Wilson working really hard. I mean, the pictures, she looks ready to play tomorrow, Allie. It's impressive. important. Thorne's definitely looking forward to having her back because when she plays versus when she didn't play last season, obviously, again, for a very great reason there for maternity leave. Wow. They have missed her. And you know what? We've missed her too, but now we'll miss seeing her and Sam Coffey on the same team, but for a great reason, Sam Coffey obviously now in Manchester city, but you know, the same thing that we just said with Mallory Swanson, respecting her own timeline.

1:15:25Sophia Wilson:We would love to see her right off the bat because it is Sophia Wilson. What are you expecting from her, Allie?

1:15:33Cristina Alexander:I mean, she's going to have to step up into a leadership position because you just mentioned that Sam Coffey's gone now. That's going to be tough for her, I think, even though she, you know, views this with intention and perspective. I think this return to play process has been really exciting for her. I think she's so thrilled to get back. She's obviously seized the potential in the team because of how well they did, you know, from mid to end season last year. And she knows that she can help the team be successful. She knows that she can create these opportunities and score goals and win games for Portland.

1:16:06Cristina Alexander:So I know how excited she seemed from the interview and from chatting with her a little bit behind the scenes. She's in a really good place. And I'm excited for Portland to obviously get her back, too, because they lean on her a lot, especially in the front line. And she can create so much. And, you know, they're so lucky to have her. And then she resigned. So the city is pumped to have her back as well. But I think she's going to be really exciting to watch. And I know that, you know, there's more to play for now, right? You're motivated more than ever because you have, you know, she has her daughter watching her and doing what she loves to do.

1:16:46Cristina Alexander:So I think that's something that both her and Mal have in common. They're really excited. to be able to showcase that they are proud moms and that, you know, they could chase their dreams, but also, you know, be a mom as well and be fierce in that role too.

1:17:03Sophia Wilson:Yeah, love that superpower now that they have at home. But with Portland now and having her back, I mean, they were contenders last season, obviously making it deep in the postseason, just missing championship. How big are they now contender-wise, like we said, without Sam Coffey, but having Sophia Wilson back.

1:17:23Cristina Alexander:Yes, and we spoke about this before. I do think they are contenders. I think that it's not just because of her. I think that they have balance and depth, which matter most. They are a young team. They now lost Sam Coffey, yes, and I know Jeff had touched on how difficult it will be for them to replace her, which no one can. But they are going to have a lethal attack. They have Raylan Turner up top. They have Olivia Moultrie, and now they have, you know, Sophia Wilson back. Those three are going to be so difficult to defend and going to be a headache for every defense in the league. And I think that they will surprise teams.

1:18:00Cristina Alexander:I think that teams will now be so focused on Sophia that Olivia and Raelynn will have, you know, more opportunity to get on the ball and create. So it's going to be exciting. I think they can definitely continue off of what they built last year, towards the end of last year. Yes, they're missing that anchor and leader in midfield. But I know that with the historical success that they've had and the club that they are and the type of money that they have, they're going to be able to find somebody who can step into that role and be confident and comfortable. And now they have the front three that are going to be super dynamic.

1:18:41Cristina Alexander:So I'm excited to see. It's not necessarily just because of her, but you can see that they have a lot of young, talented players who are willing to step in there and perform well.

1:18:52Sophia Wilson:Yeah, absolutely. Very much looking forward to having Mallory Swanson and Sophia Wilson fully back for this NWSL season. We're going to switch gears here just to wrap up the show. A little dripping or tripping for you. Alexia Putellas with her Nike Phantom 6 player edition. I am obsessed. This is a drip-in for me. Allie? Yeah, it's definitely drip-in.

1:19:18Cristina Alexander:Plus, it has number 11 on the side. So, I'm just going to clock that. There you go. But I love the silver detail. I think, and the color isn't too, too bright. And I love the logo on the back. The logo's so good.

1:19:32Sophia Wilson:Yeah. Yeah, I love it. this screams Alexia to me because she is just such a fashion queen too so um I would love to have a prayer I definitely haven't played in so long but man if I was still on the field at the very very very pick up we could play some pick up I mean if it's an excuse to buy these she's gonna send us some boots she sends them to Mia Hamm too had a very special message there for her amazing I mean yeah that must be such a surreal moment but congrats to Thank you, Alexia, for this lovely collaboration here with Nike. Love the colors. Love to see it. We're going to wrap things up, but this was a very wholesome show.

1:20:13Sophia Wilson:It really felt like that. Crystal Dunn and then hearing from her former teammates and hearing from you, Allie, as well. I mean, we're just a good show.

1:20:23Cristina Alexander:We can have a whole show about Crystal, to be honest. She's an incredible player, incredible person, and it was so nice to kind of give her some love after everything she's given this game and to us. I mean, we can have a Crystal show.

1:20:36Sophia Wilson:Crystal can also be here. I'm going to just pick her up. Okay, let's do it. Crystal, this is your house whenever you want. Thanks for hanging out with us on Football W. We will see you next week.

1:20:58Go!