Emma Hayes Demands Early Aggression from USWNT in Spain Rematch

Following a 2-0 loss where Spain scored twice in the first 14 minutes, the USWNT prepares for a Tuesday rematch at Subaru Park.

United States head coach Emma Hayes is calling for her team to be more efficient and aggressive from the opening whistle in Tuesday's rematch against Spain at Subaru Park. During their first meeting on Saturday in Washington, D.C., Spain secured a 2-0 victory with two goals scored within the first 14 minutes of play. Despite the loss, the U.S. outshot Spain 13-6 and held a 2.26 to 0.43 edge in expected goals, according to ESPN Global Research.

The previous encounter featured physical play, with Spain committing 12 fouls compared to four by the United States. Spanish forward Athenea del Castillo received a red card in second-half stoppage time for pulling the hair of Michelle Cooper. U.S. defender Emily Fox noted the team aims to be more front-footed and physical to counter Spain's approach in the upcoming contest.

Both rosters are currently depleted by injuries. The United States is playing without defender Naomi Girma and midfielder Sam Coffey, who were removed from the roster prior to camp. Spain is missing Ballon d’Or winner Aitana Bonmatí due to a broken leg, while Mariona Caldentey is sidelined with a hamstring injury and Mapi León withdrew from camp early last week. Hayes emphasized that the team is transitioning from player-to-player marking used in club play to a zonal defensive system at the international level.