Three Strategies for the USWNT to Utilize the 2024 Concacaf W Gold Cup for Recovery from World Cup Disappointment and Olympic Preparation

As the USWNT gears up for the 2024 Concacaf W Gold Cup, the first tournament since their unexpected exit from the 2023 FIFA Women’s World Cup, they are poised to employ several key strategies aimed at both rebounding from their World Cup disappointment and preparing for the upcoming Olympics. Here are three ways they plan to make the most of the tournament:

1. Pursuing Another Trophy: Despite the disappointment of their World Cup elimination, the USWNT sees the Gold Cup as an opportunity to clinch another trophy under interim head coach Twila Kilgore. With a 23-player roster in place and a string of unbeaten performances under Kilgore’s leadership, the team is determined to add another accolade to their collection. Team captain Lindsey Horan emphasized the significance of winning the Gold Cup as a special achievement, while also viewing it as a crucial step in building momentum for the Olympics.
2. Fine-Tuning for the Olympics: As the USWNT undergoes a transition phase with incoming manager Emma Hayes, the Gold Cup serves as a testing ground for tactical adjustments and player evaluations ahead of the Olympics. With less than six months remaining until the Tokyo Games, interim coach Kilgore will use the tournament to assess players and refine strategies, aiming to finalize an 18-person roster for the Olympics. The Gold Cup presents a valuable opportunity to gauge player performances and make necessary adjustments in preparation for the ultimate goal of Olympic success.
3. Development and Integration of Less Experienced Players: With a roster comprising both seasoned veterans and less capped players, the Gold Cup provides a platform for emerging talents to make their mark on the team. Players like Jaedyn Shaw, Mia Fishel, Olivia Moultrie, and Korbin Albert, who have been called up following the World Cup, will have the chance to showcase their abilities and earn valuable playing time. Team captain Horan stressed the importance of every player utilizing their time on the field to contribute to the team’s collective progress and cohesion leading into the Olympics.

In summary, the USWNT aims to capitalize on the 2024 Concacaf W Gold Cup as a means of regrouping from their World Cup setback, refining their strategies for the Olympics, and integrating new talents into the squad. With their sights set on both short-term success in the Gold Cup and long-term triumph at the Olympics, the team is primed for a period of growth and resurgence on the international stage.