Futbol W: SheBelieves Matchday 1 Recap + Ali Talks With Kenza Dali and Savy King + Top 5 Goals

16:07Kenza Dali:Lily would like if I started saying dripping she would tell me that there's no chance I'm a boomer and I can't say that but I like them they're sweet and if you want one I will send you a heaps jersey just let me know

16:23Cristina Alexander:No, I already have your national team jersey. The U.S. Soccer sent me that because that's what I requested. I didn't wear it tonight. Sorry about that. But, yes, I will accept the Denver Summit. Lindsey Heaps. It's so odd still saying that. Lindsey Heaps jersey, but I will be so proud to wear it, especially on the show. But once again, thank you so much for joining us. I miss you a lot, and good luck with the rest of the tournament, and good luck with Lyon and the Champions League. We are going to be supporting you and watching both.

16:52Kenza Dali:Thank you so much.

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18:50Ali Krieger:Lindsay Heaps calling us out for saying dripping or tripping because we say that really often. Do we say it too often? Maybe. Are we considered boomers? Are we boomers? Are we the drama? Well, hey, speaking of drama on the field, that's what Lindsay Heaps causes. I mean, with the games in the She Believes Cup, with the goals and especially her latest in assists, she is so valuable for the U.S. women's national team and chances created. But it's so much more than her stats. As Ali, you know, and both of you know each other so well, have known each other since 2011, 2012? Yeah, around there. Way back when, yeah.

19:28Ali Krieger:Yeah, and the intangibles of Lindsay Heaps were ones that you were able to see from the beginning of her career. And to see her as captain right now, just what is that like for you?

19:39Cristina Alexander:It feels just like a natural progression that she's taken. And I think we all knew that she would fit this role beautifully when the time came. And this was going to be her next leadership responsibility was to carry this team into the next phase. And it's been so enjoyable to watch her growth, her development, her experience continue to surprise us and impress us. She's a key to that team, especially now because of all the young talent that the team has. But to continue with that experience, to be the controller in midfield, to be the captain of the team, the leader of the squad, You know, that's a lot of responsibility that she carries.

20:19Cristina Alexander:But all these young players look to her for that. And she's the perfect one for the job. And I'm really, really excited to continue to see her growth. And obviously, she's still got it. I mean, she's thriving now, especially in the Champions League with Lyon. And then also bringing that to the national team. She's obviously scoring brilliant goals. So I'm really excited to continue to see her. And I'm hoping that, you know, she will be a shoe-in for the World Cup.

20:45Ali Krieger:I mean, if Lindsay Heaps retires today, her legacy is already a brilliant one. And it's great to see that she's going to come home. What you said about her parents is so exciting to see, to see her back here on NWSL turf, to see what she's going to do with the U.S. women's national team. But let's break down what we actually saw during the game, not only her brilliant goal, but the way that she's able to lead this team. What was your biggest takeaway from this 2-0 victory from the national team?

21:12Cristina Alexander:Yeah, that's always unpredictable to play against, you know, a team like Argentina, right? You never know how they're going to show up, and it's always going to be a physical game because everyone wants to beat the U.S. And it gets chippy and feisty there in the end, but what I saw them was complete game management from start to finish. They were able to capitalize on the chances that they created. I think the lineup showed proof at how much depth that the U.S. women's national team has, but it was impressive the way that they kept their heads, even through those really difficult chippy times, especially when Trinity Robin got injured and you saw Olivia Moultrie get a little bit, you know, heated rightfully.

21:46Cristina Alexander:So I think these games really prove why this team is, you know, as talented and experienced as they should be. Because sometimes the games are going to be this and you don't want to lose players to silly fouls or silly mistakes or silly decisions that you can control. And I really think that they handled themselves, you know, great during those moments. And I think that's what separates an elite team from a good team. And the complete performance for me was wonderful. And the two goals, you know, the second goal of Shaw, you know, the goalkeeper could have done a little bit better. But still, the balls are going in the back of the net.

22:25Cristina Alexander:And this is a squad that doesn't normally play together as often. So that was impressive as well. And this is a tournament phase. So it's really exciting to see the mentality at the level that it was at at the very beginning.

22:38Ali Krieger:Yeah, it seemed like the first minutes they were really working out the chemistry a little bit, especially coming up from the back, Argentina with that really, really high press and constantly, Ali. What you said about Jaden Shaw, too, even finding her way, getting past the goalkeeper. Speaking of goalkeepers, we saw Claudia Dickey there in the back. She had a few impressive saves as well.

22:57Cristina Alexander:Yeah, she looks confident. She looks in control. She was leading from the back. You know, there wasn't too much excitement. But the moments that she had to impress and she had to make the save, she saved them. So, you know, she's continuing to gain that experience and gain that confidence at this level. And that's what you need. You have to be willing to, you know, walk into a game like this and really showcase who you want to be and why you want to be there. And you have to make it difficult for the coaches to ignore you. And she's doing just that. So she did her job. She did it well. And that's all you can ask from a goalkeeper in that position.

23:30Ali Krieger:Yeah, 100%. Before we move on to see how Canada did against Colombia, the two quick updates as well. Emma Hayes commenting on Trinity Rodman saying she's fine and fully training. As for Lily Real, she had to leave with a foot injury. So it's bad news for her. We know you had her as part of your starting 11, and she has such a promising career. So it's not over by any means for Lily Real. So we hope to see her back very soon with the U.S. Women's National Team. All right, let's take a look at how Canada did versus Colombia. Speaking of a chippy game, this was certainly one of them. A corner kick, though, in the 31st minute.

24:08Ali Krieger:Vanessa Gilles there to head it in. Rises highest to open the scoring there, Ali.

24:14Cristina Alexander:Yeah, obviously, you know, the defending lacked, but her height and her power in the air, you know, following through to make sure that she got the ball in the back of the net. Once again here, beautiful set piece. comes off the two goals two set pieces and saunas hits this perfectly side netting well done goalkeeper doesn't even move yeah I mean even if she did but she definitely moved here and got a couple of hands on it but it wasn't enough with the rebound so it was three no for Canada 80th minute he said a little gets brought down in the box yeah I think this is just clumsy defending you know this is careless she's she's not going in towards goal you just keep her wide and keep that danger away from the goal and that should have never happened.

24:59Cristina Alexander:But Columbia comes back and was able to put the ball in the back of the net.

25:01Ali Krieger:Yeah, good on Lacey Santos there, Washington Spirit owned. And in the 83rd minute, told you it was a chippy one. Robledo cladders into Simia Ullo and it was her second yellow she has sent off. There were seven total yellows in this game. Nichelle Prince, though, doing what she does best, tucks it away, so talented. And Canada wins it 4-1 with that definitionality.

25:23Cristina Alexander:This is so beautiful and it's so difficult to do, especially on this type of surface. This ball, this pace, the way to keep it down like that, to wrap your foot over top of the ball is brilliant.

25:35Ali Krieger:Yeah, the stats really don't really tell the tale properly, which is often seen here in football. Canada went away with a 4-1 against Columbia. So when we break down what we saw, especially from Casey Stoney's Canada, it was great. They got rid of a goalless drought that had lasted for 485 minutes, which is hard to believe, Ali. But then you see that they ended a five-game losing streak, and you kind of believe it a little bit more. What did Canada do to be able to come back from this, and what do they need to do to continue this route?

26:08Cristina Alexander:Well, they had structure first and foremost. You know, they didn't make these careless mistakes. They were able to capitalize on the goal-scoring opportunities that they created, and they were able to put the ball in the back of the net. They also controlled the tempo. I think they were really successful in wide areas to be able to create and combine. So that was really great to see. But the structure really stood out to me on both sides of the ball. And then the moments that they needed to score goals, those two set pieces are critical in games like this where it's a little bit chippy and it's a little bit difficult because Columbia is causing some problems.

26:43Cristina Alexander:They're having to deal with that type of threat that's a little bit uncomfortable. And seven yellow cards and the red card in the end. You know, I was a little bit disappointed in how Columbia just couldn't get a hold of the game and do what they do best, which is disrupting, you know, the opponent just with their high-press mentality and their mentality of just being an underdog type of team where they can control games in midfield and be able to, you know, capitalize on transitional moments. And they just didn't feel like they were, you know, getting any type of grip on the game or control in the game in order to be able to do the things that they're really good at.

27:22Cristina Alexander:And Canada controlled it all the way through, and they definitely deserved the win.

27:26Ali Krieger:Yeah, and I know you said Canada would maybe be the most difficult opponent here for the U.S. Women's National Team. So when we think about their game in less than 24 hours, how should Emma Hayes approach this one?

27:38Cristina Alexander:Well, I think we already understand or assume that it's going to be a little bit emotional. So I think the U.S. has to hone in on that, you know, controlling the chaos, right? And being able to mentally stay sharp in the game and the task at hand, which isn't difficult for the U.S. to do. They've proven that they're able to do that. But with maybe some players who aren't as experienced playing against Canada as consistently as maybe a Sonnet or a Lindsay or a Rose, I think that they need to make sure that they don't allow the emotions to overcome their play. And they do the little things right.

28:15Cristina Alexander:They continue to combine and to be able to create those chances that they're really good at creating. And I think we're going to see a different type of lineup. I think we're going to see a really strong U.S. team with the spine that, you know, might have a different setup in the center back situation. I'm sure Sam Coffey, Lindsey, and maybe we'll see a Rose, I hope, start the game off. just to have that solid midfield core that the U.S. team needs against a really great, young, talented Canada. They are ambitious. They are exciting. They are in, I think, a transitional period because they are a somewhat newer squad with similar mindset of the U.S.

28:58Cristina Alexander:national team, younger players, where they have a lot to prove. They want to do well and they want to have success. So I think, you know, it's going to be exciting. They're going to want to come out and prove why they deserve to be there and to be in camp. And I know with, you know, the new coaching staff and the new structure and philosophy, we're starting to see that grow and continue that process for Canada.

29:20Ali Krieger:Yeah, we're starting to see that identity that I'm sure Casey Stoney really wants with this Canadian side. I mean, such talented players. But as I mentioned, Nichelle Prince, I'm very much looking forward to what she can do here with Canada. Here's the She Believes Cup schedule, or as mostly know it as the Sonnet Believes Cup. Tomorrow, Argentina vs. Colombia, 3.30 p.m. at USA vs. Canada. Like we said, in less than 24 hours Saturday, the action continues with Canada vs. Argentina and U.S. vs. Colombia. All right, we're going to shift a little bit here to NWSL with someone who landed in San Diego to leave it all on and off the field.

30:00Ali Krieger:And I'm, of course, talking about Kenza Dali, the way that her teammates speak about her, her coaches speak about her. She is clearly an example to follow. And she sat down with another example to follow, our Allie Krieger. Well done by Kenza Dali. She is so crucial in their build and their creation. Look at this boy. It's a great ball in from Kenza Dali. Just an incredible, incredible shot from Kenza Dali from outside the box. Scintillating strike. What an impact she's had.

30:34Cristina Alexander:Firstly, I want to know how your off-season was. Did you have any time to reset, recharge, relax with your family and friends? I'm going to tell you the truth. No, I had family times, but to be fair, I really worked in pre-season. You're never really off. I had like after the World 7, like a week. And then training. Yeah, so it all kind of bleeds into one. Did you have any time for the holidays to enjoy with family, just a slight break? My program was basically we did the same morning family afternoon training. Like, yeah, at my age, you can't really stop for three weeks. I know how that feels.

31:17Cristina Alexander:You're absolutely right. But you played World Savage. You just spoke about it. Congratulations. Was that a fun experience for you? it's slightly, it's very different from 11 v 11. So how did you, how did you find that? I loved it. I honestly loved it. Like we had such a good time and I just love this football without like any rules and like you just attack, you defend. It was super demanding physically, but it was so much fun. If I can play it every year, I will play it every year. Well, maybe you will now. You'll be invited after, after those performances that you had. But you finished tied for the team leading goals, moving from, you know, just to chat about last season.

32:00Cristina Alexander:What allowed you to make such an attacking impact for your team last season? To be fair, I'm a bit surprised because my position was more like, like lower on the pitch. You're pretty fluid, though. You had freedom to play within that. So you don't really start like and I'm really happy with that because I'm really nine to start. And so it was more like I love the fact that we have so many different goals, Kara. This is really how I see football. I just don't want to be dependent on one player. And that's the hardest to have in the team. And so, yeah, that was good. How do you balance kind of being that connector in midfield with that creativity and then the defensive responsibilities at times, especially in the NWSL?

32:51Cristina Alexander:It's like box to box. You're very active in midfield. But within that role, it feels as though you have the freedom that we were speaking about in the center of the park. But how do you balance the attack and the defensive mindsets of the game? Yeah, I fight so hard with Jonas to have this freedom. I'm not going to lie. But he's a coach that allowed me to do that, and that's so important to me because he trusts my feeling on the pitch. So he's always like, as long as we go race defense right, like you can do what you want but yeah as you said like if you don't have like good shape behind the ball in this league you get punished straight away so the fact that we play with two sixes allowed me to be like kind of like six and eight so we always have one mood filter to stay for the rest defense and one that kind of navigate and that allowed me to have this freedom and I I just love it because I always want the ball.

33:50Cristina Alexander:And then in the defensive part, like, it's more about position than actually, like, make contact. It's more about covering. So, like, people can think, like, oh, they're not defending because you don't tackle your defender. And so, you know, but I love it. It's more your position, like, without the ball that is really important in the way we play. Especially as you get older, right? You're like, I need to put my body in this right position or else I'm not going to chase. If I'm honest with you, I'm the one to run the most in my gym. In every single test. We've done the 1K test recently. But yeah, I still have the legs to do that.

34:34Cristina Alexander:And that is as well why I'm like both 6 and 8. I feel like otherwise Jonas will say, you stay. But yeah, I feel good. So that's the most important. Good. It's about working smarter, not harder. Exactly. But moving into that, what responsibility do you feel specifically heading into this new season with the Wave? A lot right now, I will say, but like because the windows is still active, like you don't know what type of player you're going to get, if you're still going to get player and are they going to be like experienced players. So obviously we kind of like lost Kaylin, which was like a really, really big leader for us.

35:17Cristina Alexander:Savannah was a prayer for me on the pitch and had like this experience as well. But we also signed like Ludmilla that has so much experience in the game and like is going to lead the attack. And so it really depends how you found your space in this young team. and you need to connect with them and we will see. You speak about, you know, changes within the attack and through midfield, basically in the front six, including the departure of Delphine to London City, which happy for her, but also sad, not only for San Diego, because I thought, you know, she was brilliant for the league and for you specifically having that relationship.

36:01Cristina Alexander:But how does that shift the group now? You mentioned, you know, the transfer window is still open, So there still could be some movement. But losing a player like her. I mean, you don't replace her. I mean, like, she's, to me, for working with her, like, in daily basis and stuff, like, for me, she's top three in the world. So, like, you would never match this quality. It doesn't matter who you bring. It's the reality. If you think you can replace it, then. But then that's going to be, like, how smart you are as a team of maybe changing the way you play. I always say smart players always adapt with who she plays.

36:43Cristina Alexander:So you're not playing the same type of ball you're going to play to Dolphin or to Duginia on the opposite side. And you need to recognize that. And as a team, we need to recognize and to change the way we're going to play. And this is what preseason is for. And as always, you can't be dependent on one player. but it's obviously a massive loss. You mentioned Ludmila coming in. She was brilliant for Chicago, scored a lot of goals, also plays with the Brazilian national team, so she has that experience at the highest level. But how do you see her helping shape the system and the attack? I think what I really like from Ludmila last season, I remember when I played against Chicago, she's a winner.

37:26Cristina Alexander:I remember they had a really bad game at home. 3-0. Yeah, it's like she comes back. She was like fuming at halftime. And like, I love that. I love this fire in her that like we need it. Because I'm like that too. I hate losing. And like, I just don't understand like her player that is fine losing Triniel. And I kind of just walk away like she was fighting. And she got this fire in her game, the way she play and the way she leads. She's someone that works hard. I can already see she's been with us for like a week. and at training you can really see she got a big personality and I love that. What does playing in the NWSL, bringing it back to just this league specifically, what does it bring out in you that's a bit different than how you feel playing in Europe?

38:17Cristina Alexander:Besides that winning mentality and that fight that's natural to you. Is there something else? I just love the fact that I'm starting a season and I'm like, oh, I compete for a trophy. I felt like in England you have like if you're not in the top three you're not really compete for it and like you cannot like okay what's your objective and in this league I felt like you have so many objectives so like it drives you really and what I love as well is like if I play at 70 percent in this league I can't get away like it's like uh I'm gonna be in trouble it's really funny you say that Because my last season, I was like 39 years old, and I was like, okay, all I'm going to do, because I moved to center back, like left center back.

39:05Cristina Alexander:And, you know, I didn't want to run as much. Even though this league is so demanding, you have to. You have no choice. But at times, I was like, I'll just organize, and I'll just, you know, ping the ball. Get it to the players, you know, talk, communicate, give it to the players that can play. And that's really what the focus was. So I adjusted that way. But that's interesting that you say that. Yeah, I mean, like, I feel like if I'm a little bit tired, like, I complain. Like, you need to be 100%. And I just love the fact that, like, even teams that have, like, such bad runs can, like, hurt you the next game.

39:41Cristina Alexander:And, like, I love that. And I would say I'm much more demanding in my recovery, especially with the travel that is new for me and I need to take care of myself so much more. And, yeah, that changed me in terms of, like, I've always been disciplined in everything I'm doing, but even more now, yeah. How many recovery days do you get allowed? Seven. I used to be like, listen, I'll see you next at the game, at the home game. so don't worry about me no no no even like sometimes you can think like Yona's going to manage the experience for example you run I run between 11k and 12k per game so when we arrive on match day plus 2 when we travel he's like do you want to train today or do you want to stay on the bike and I'm like no if you put me on the bike it means that And the Wednesday I'm starting my week and the first day I'm traveling in the East Coast.

40:46Cristina Alexander:So like when am I training? It's tough. So yeah, no, I do. I live around football. I would have been like, I'm going to be on the bike. I might not even make it to the bike. I'm just going to stretch here on the side. No, but when you were my age, surely you trained much more. I'm sure you did. I'm sure you did. But I don't feel my data and stuff don't reflect, like, my age. And I'm like, maybe because the young player keeps me young.

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42:34Ali Krieger:Go to maintainx.com slash sports. That's maintain and the letter x dot com slash sports. Maybe because Ken said Ali knows how to keep herself young and clearly it's working for her with a 7 to 10 day rest, of course, being sarcastic in that answer. I mean, she was ranked first when it comes to goals, second in assists, chances created. She was first in shots. She was first. But again, and it's kind of the same question that I was or the same thing that I was bringing up, Ali, with Lindsay Heaps and with Kenzarelli. Her intangibles are just impressive. Even being in the same room with her, it's almost like a coach that you want to make proud.

43:18Ali Krieger:This is the kind of player that you want to play for and you want to play alongside. What impressed you the most or what has impressed you the most about Kenza Dali in this conversation or her career short and very impressive in the NWSL?

43:32Cristina Alexander:I think just the passion that she has for the game, especially, you know, just getting older. You know, some players tend to just kind of, you know, lose that passion. And they might be having fun, but they might not continue to have this winning mentality, this urgency to want to win and to fight. and she has that. She's electric. She's the controller in the midfield. She's one of the most experienced players, if not the most experienced player on the wave, and she's bringing that also international experience to a lot of these younger players and helping coach some of the younger players, you know, and just holding their hand and bringing them along because she wants to win.

44:11Cristina Alexander:She wants to be successful, and she knows that she has to gather everybody and make sure they're bought into, you know, the end goal. But she's impressive. You know, as she's gotten older, I think she's been playing some of the best football that I've ever seen her play in her career. And I think that's because she is enjoying San Diego. She is enjoying the NWSL. And she is having fun. And she doesn't necessarily have to do that much, but she wants to run the 11 kilometers a game. And she wants to be involved in almost every play. And you can see that she really cares about the success of the team.

44:45Cristina Alexander:So I know that was a lot, but she's a player that I respect and I think has been wonderful to see join the league. And she attracts a lot of fans and puts them in the seats. And it's going to be, you know, great to continue to see her growth, you know, with San Diego. And then just she's a wonderful player for the Annabelle to have.

45:07Ali Krieger:And it's great for players like her to see a project like at San Diego Wave and say, I want to stay here another season, whether it's with Jonas Edoval and what we saw in that change now last season and names now with Luchmila, who's going to be playing at San Diego Wave, possibly Kat Macario. What potential does San Diego have now with the Kenza Dali, who knows this league really well, and with the potential growth of a team that we were always excited to watch?

45:36Cristina Alexander:I mean, like she mentioned, you can't fill the shoes of Cascarino. I mean, unfortunately, she chose to leave and go to the WSL. But, you know, Lujmila is going to be brilliant. And I think they're going to build that relationship right from the get. And I think that's going to be extremely important to make sure that they don't lose that attacking, you know, progress that they've made. And now hopefully adding Katarina Macario, that would be brilliant because they do need a nine. Lujmila can play out wide, cut in and combine and also, you know, make runs in behind and create those services that maybe Kat could get on the end of.

46:10Cristina Alexander:So I'm hoping that that's going to be the case. But we will see, I think, just those three are already, you know, raising the level and elevating the level of San Diego altogether.

46:21Ali Krieger:Yeah, it was sad to see Delphine Cascarino go, especially with how she was able to fit into the San Diego Wave. And we always describe this team as being extremely creative. It's one of the more creative teams that we see play in the NWSL. So very excited to see another season of Kenza Dali. All right. Speaking of good news, this is great news. We love to see in the offseason. Savvy King making her way back. And I say way back because of this timeline. She suffered a cardiac event on May 9, 2025 during an Angel City match. She underwent open heart surgery after a rare congenital heart condition was discovered.

47:00Ali Krieger:She was placed on NWSL's season-ending injury list and will be available for Angel City's preseason and start of regular season on March 15th. So excited for her. So let's hear from her with Allie Krieger.

47:15Cristina Alexander:Since everything you went through last season, how has your perspective of the game and on life shifted a little bit?

47:21Savy King:Yeah, my perspective has changed completely, I feel like. At least I've tried to kind of, you know, step back a little bit and see the sport from a different lens, I guess, which is, you know, really different than what I've been used to. But it's been amazing. I feel like I've grown so much and matured so much as a person, but through it all, I've just been trying to not like focus on like the negative part of it I don't want that to be what it all is I want it to be more of like a positive thing so I've tried to turn it into something that's way bigger than just you know some an event that happened on the field.

47:54Cristina Alexander:How has this recovery been different from any other injury right this health scare yeah it's not like any other injury yeah so how has that been different from what you've dealt with before if at all?

48:08Savy King:Actually this is my first injury that I've gone through really so this was a very big one a different one than than I can imagine any other injury but it's been it's been different I think that when you have like other injuries you kind of have had someone that's had it before so you kind of know the steps that it takes and returning back to play on the field but for this recovery it was more so like a day-by-day basis the doctors and stuff were figuring things out as we went so it wasn't necessarily like a laid-out plan that we all knew the answers to. There was a lot of questions that, well now they know the answers to because I've been through it, but it was like it was a process that was just required a lot of patience and just day by day.

48:49Cristina Alexander:And through that experience you've started a foundation which has been such a positive coming out from such a difficult time. Can you share what that mission means to you and how people can get involved and get connected with you?

49:01Savy King:Yeah that mission means a lot to me. It's called the Savvy King of Hearts and basically the goal is to bring awareness to cardiac events as well as the importance of CPR and every donation that we get goes back into the community because we are trying to provide AEDs to communities that don't have them and that is a very crucial step in saving a life and so that is the biggest way to contribute to you know the message and what we're trying to do with the nonprofit is is to donate as well as just spread the word I feel like also getting CPR certified is is a huge step as well and it got the nonprofit got really big really fast so we're just trying to figure out the best way to go about kind of you know the next steps that come with it.

49:40Cristina Alexander:Well it's so exciting to hear that you've you know turned this you know moment in your life and this experience that might have been really difficult for you that was difficult for you into something so extremely positive for so many so I'm so happy for you in that way as well but you're still so young and so much football to play in your career and ahead so what do you still want to achieve at Angel City?

50:05Savy King:At Angel City I definitely, well first of all I just want to get back on the field. I really think that we have a really great team going into this season. I'm really excited and I think, I mean obviously the goal for every season is to win it all so that all I said on that, just taking it one game at a time and I think that we have a really special group going into this season and so I'm so excited. I still haven't played under Alex yet because he came when I was not there so I think that that is a another huge thing that I'm really excited for and then And just we got some amazing additions.

50:33Savy King:I'm excited to play with Emily Sams and all of our new rookies that came in and Ari Borges. And I think we're just going to have a really great year.

50:41Cristina Alexander:The new young ones are going to be taking over the place. But what do you value most about being a defender, especially within this Angel City system? I know you said you haven't played under Alex yet, but you've been able to be a part of so many games and watching the team play the second half of the year last year. So what do you see there?

51:05Savy King:Yeah, I feel like defenders are always silent heroes, I feel like. I love everything about being a defender. And, yeah, I think we draw really well together off the field, which I think really translates onto the field as well. But we have a pretty young back line, to be honest with you. But in Sarah and Emily, they bring a lot of wisdom to us, I guess, and like a mentorship role kind of. I feel like I've learned so much from them and I'm just excited to continue to work with them and grow and learn.

51:34Cristina Alexander:What's been the biggest, you talk about learning and growing, what's been the biggest learning curve since you've been playing at the pro level so far?

51:43Savy King:I feel like this past season has taught me a lot. I feel like a lot of it just comes with patience. I feel like I've definitely learned patience a lot throughout this process and to not rush something and getting back especially. but yeah I feel like there's a lot to take away from I feel like I've learned the most from just asking questions and talking to people and you know putting myself out there to just kind of you know put myself in a situation where I can really gain a lot of information and just take a lot in because that is just super helpful and just becoming more well-rounded on the field and what role

52:17Cristina Alexander:have mentors like teammates or staff or family played during this chapter of your career?

52:24Savy King:Huge. They have been absolutely huge in shaping me, my family especially. They've been with me through it all, so they've seen me at every stage all the time. My parents pretty much go to every game ever, so they're always around, and that support has always meant the world to me, and you know, going out of college and coming to be a pro is a big step. It's a scary step, to be honest with you, and so I've had so much support, you know, with my family and coaches that I've had in the past, as well as all the teammates I've had, and going in my 30 or being an interview, so that's crazy to think about.

52:55Savy King:But yeah, I mean, I was 18 when I started and I was scared. I didn't know anybody and it was just super helpful to have so many players that just make me feel so comfortable and just talking to me and just like, you know, patting me on the back and letting me know that like they've got my back, which was really helpful.

53:11Cristina Alexander:Has there been anyone specific, any teammate in LA that has really taken you under their wing and really has supported you?

53:20Savy King:Yeah, I feel like at different stages. I feel like when I first got there, like Sarah and Allie Riley were really helpful and, you know, same with Sidney LaRue. They were really great and, you know, making me feel really comfortable. And then Claire Emsley was my training partner throughout this recovery. I love her. And so it was just awesome to be able to watch her, like, be so strong throughout her entire pregnancy. It was insane. I feel like my jaw was always dropped.

53:46Cristina Alexander:It was crazy because like if she's doing that, I need to be able to do it.

53:50Savy King:She's running 80 % of her max speed at eight months pregnant. I was like, how is that even possible? First of all, but it was really cool to like have that relationship as well because it was just like two crazy like different like injuries, not really, but like that happened to have like the same kind of recovery process. Like we both had our heart rate monitors on. We call, we We called ourselves the heartthrobs. So it was really cool to be able to go through that process with her. And I feel like I learned a lot and she kind of helped me a lot through that process of just keeping a positive mindset throughout it all because we were always cheering each other on.

54:26Cristina Alexander:But what would make this season a success for you in your own terms?

54:30Savy King:Yeah, I feel like me feeling confident and comfortable just being out on the field. I think that throughout this entire process, the mental aspect is super important. And I feel like, you know, I've definitely had ups and downs for sure, but just getting to a point where I feel like comfortable and confident and just being out on the field where just everything that happened to me doesn't necessarily like make me feel nervous. You know, that's that's a process in it in and of itself. But I feel like just getting to the point where I am just like completely just savvy again and getting to the point where it's like that the event that happened wasn't necessarily what people's first thing is when they say when they see me.

55:10Savy King:or what is attached to my name. Like before all of that, I was just Savvy the Soccer Player and I had accomplished everything that I did and got to where I was. And so I'm excited to just play on the field and like kind of leave that behind me a little bit and just become Savvy the Soccer Player again.

55:25Cristina Alexander:Being in Angel City, what does representing that city mean to you?

55:31Savy King:It means the world to me. I'm from here, so being back in my hometown is absolutely incredible. You know, playing in front of my family, friends, club coaches, and trainers that I've had growing up is so amazing. I feel like I always knew that I wanted to play here at some point in my life just to be able to play for my hometown team. And, you know, my parents don't have to fly or drive to all the games anymore. They just drive with me in the car, which is really awesome. But it's amazing to represent, like, a city that is just so amazing and so diverse. and there's so many amazing things that I feel like we bring into the culture and the atmosphere.

56:08Savy King:It's just incredible and so inclusive, and it's just amazing to kind of see. And to be able to represent an organization like that that I'm just super proud to be a part of just makes the whole experience better.

56:21Ali Krieger:I think this is a safe assumption. I'm sure Angel City is very proud to have Savvy King not only back, but as part of their roster here for this upcoming season. What did you enjoy the most about your conversation with Savvy?

56:34Cristina Alexander:She's so humble. She's so kind. And she just wants to continue to learn and ultimately just get back out on the field and play and play the sport that she loves to play. So that was first. But I was shook that this was her first injury or health scare. I mean, that was wild to me to see a player. I mean, she is young. But that was impressive. So she must have an amazing recovery routine. But I'm happy that the team has her back, and I'm happy that, you know, she can go out there and play free and have fun and enjoy again after such a, you know, a tough year for her.

57:16Ali Krieger:Yeah, at 21 years old, we all believe we are invincible. And to be shaken in that way, to come back the way that she has. She's done very close work with DeMar Hamlin, who also suffered a cardiac event with the Bills a couple of years ago now, two or three years ago if I remember correctly. So it's been really great to see. She's such an example now. Let's dive into what we expect from Angel City, Ali. Struggling as of late, especially last season. They tried to pick up towards the end of the season. It wasn't enough for them. Alyssa Thompson is out. They extended Giselle Thompson. What do you expect realistically from Angel City?

57:59Cristina Alexander:Well, it will be difficult, you know, So, you know, not being able to fill the shoes of two incredible leaders in Kristen Press and Ali Riley who have, you know, moved on into retirement. And I'm sure they're staying close to the team as much as possible to continue to help, you know, off field. But it will be tough to fill their shoes. So that experience then, you know, other players have to step up and really get control of that and make sure that everyone's bought into the ultimate goal is to make playoffs. You have to have the mentality to want to get there. They've shown that grit throughout the season, but not a complete season.

58:37Cristina Alexander:They've, you know, had some really critical dips in their season and haven't been able to, you know, solidify a playoff run in the past two seasons. So I know that this year that's what the expectation has to be. And that's what I think we all are now expecting. There's been a few roster changes. I know solidifying up the defense with Emily Sams coming in, which will be incredible because she'll be able to lead from the back and take her experience over the past few years with Orlando and having that winning mentality enter into. So I'm happy to see that shore up a little bit, which hopefully will give the attack more opportunities.

59:15Cristina Alexander:But the expectation is playoffs. They are a team that has to get to that point in the season and has to fight through and to be able to have a complete season. And they haven't been able to do that yet. So I know they're probably itching to be able to get there this year.

59:32Ali Krieger:Yeah, both of their kits are phenomenal. Angel City does it truly out of the best. I don't want to say the best of the best because we'll have to talk about the kits here in the next couple of weeks. But truly with what we're seeing from Angel City, and you were telling me off camera that you really enjoyed your conversation with Raelynn Turner. So that's another player that we can definitely look forward to. But we are also looking forward to the start of the NWSL season. We can't wait. We're going to start it in Boston. Boston Legacy kicking things off versus Gotham FC. March 14th, 1230 p.m.

1:00:08Ali Krieger:Eastern. You can't miss it. It's on ABC.

1:00:13Ali Krieger:A big name from Liga MX, EFEMENIL, is joining the NWSL. Utah Royals announced the signing of Club America's Kiana Palacios today. A source told ESPN the Royals paid an$800 ,000 transfer fee to sign Palacios. Her signing was announced while on international duty with Mexico. She is America's all-time leading scorer for with 90 goals in 174 league appearances. She truly is impressive with all of her numbers. As I just mentioned, those nine Eagles, a team high, Real Sociedad, LA Galaxy, and Mexico. She has so much experience that she will be bringing in to the NWSL. If you're ready for an oil change, trust the professional parts people at O 'Reilly Auto Parts to recommend the best products for your vehicle.

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1:02:12Cristina Alexander:I wish I could have had any type of opportunity to score any type of goal like that in my days. She won it all and she still wants more.

1:02:23Ali Krieger:That's why she is a two-time World Cup champion.

1:02:26Cristina Alexander:I really just wanted to play up top and in the nines.

1:02:29Ali Krieger:For like a few games. Football W exclusive, Allie Krieger is coming back to play as a forward. How many more goals did Lindsey Heaps have than you? 38. and counting. That's not a knock on you, Ali. We'll see you back here next week. Go on.

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