Has Emma Hayes Been Playing the Wrong Players? USWNT vs Spain Has us Asking Questions | The Late Sub

The USWNT fought back from a 2-0 deficit to earn a dramatic draw against Spain, but did the comeback answer any of the biggest questions facing Emma Hayes? Claire breaks down the good, the bad, and the concerning from the USWNT's two matches against Spain, and what they reveal about the team's chances at the 2027 Women's World Cup.

Ashley Sanchez and Mallory Swanson deliver huge goals, but questions remain about Lindsey Heaps' role in the midfield, the USWNT's defensive struggles, and whether Claudia Dickey has emerged as the clear No. 1 goalkeeper. Plus, which players made their case for a World Cup roster spot, why the USWNT's attacking depth could be its biggest strength, and whether Emma Hayes needs to rethink her approach against the world's best teams.

This episode is presented by Ally Bank, member FDIC.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction

01:02 USWNT's Dramatic Spain Comeback

02:58 Emma Hayes' Bigger Picture

09:51 Breaking Down Spain

12:23 The Lindsey Heaps Problem

16:23 USWNT's Defensive Struggles

18:52 World Cup Roster Locks

20:01 The Goalkeeper Battle