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Naomi Girma’s move from San Diego FC to Chelsea set the highest transfer fee in women’s football. The London club reportedly paid $1.1 million (£890,000) for the American defender, who was under contract with the NWSL side until 2026.

Girma’s transfer fee record comfortably beats the $860,000 (£485,000) paid by Bay FC to sign Zambian forward Racheal Kundananji from Madrid CFF in February 2024, another January window transfer.

Short-lived record fees have not always been the case in women’s football. When Rayo Vallecano paid Italian side Fiammamonza $290k (£162,000) to sign Milene Domingues in 2002, it was a price that remained unsurpassed until 2020 by Chelsea’s business of $330k (£250k), to bring in Denmark’s Pernille Harder from VfL Wolfsburg.

Harder’s move made waves for various reasons, but it was the price tag that broke an 18 year long record which ignited an untouched before conversation: When will we see a million dollar transfer in the women’s game?

Two years later, the sum was broken when Barcelona signed England's Keira Walsh from Manchester City for £350k up front and £54k in add-ons ($470k total) at the back of the Lionesses winning the home Euro’s.

A few months into 2024, the record was topped by Colombian striker Mayra Ramírez move to Chelsea followed by Kundananji.

The commonality across is: Chelsea, who have been bold in investing big, and spending unseen numbers for squad development. Perhaps, this is not new behavior from the WSL side who broke the British transfer record in 2015 to sign a young Fran Kirby from Reading for a fee reported to be between £40,000 and £60,000 ($50,000 -$75,000).

Chelsea are trendsetters of breaking transfer fee numbers: it’s become their motto.

There are not many holes in the Blues squad, but the recent season-ending anterior cruciate knee ligament injury in November to defender Kadeisha Buchanan meant the need of solid reinforcement in the back. The departure of Jess Carter last summer only exacerbated Girma’s purchase.

Unbeaten in all competitions so far and holding on to one of the best defensive records in the WSL by conceding the second-fewest goals (six), Chelsea is looking to continue that streak.

Similar to last year, Sam Kerr fell victim to the ACL epidemic in January during a training camp. Chelsea were quick to get on the market and look for a quality forward, the result being Ramírez.

Indeed, Chelsea have raised the standard of doing business and continue to be bold in putting money on the table when they are looking for strong, in demand, and needed replacements. Their approach is not interested in quick bandaids, but rather smart investment for the long term - even if that means breaking a record fee.

To win titles, there is no room to stall and wait for the next window, and Chelsea have mastered just that.

Along with heavy spendings, the London side has assured such players to sign relatively long contracts should they be involved in a transfer during the length of their contract. Both Girma and Ramírez signed a four-and-a-half-year contracts. Chelsea could make a good profit, but who can dine with them will need to have deep pockets.

Some have said the WSL side is assembling the Galacticos of women’s football, which once again asserts Chelsea’s intent. Harder was arguably the best player in 2020 when the Blues broke the record for her, and Girma's value is close to unmatched.

The front office and recruitment of Chelsea will be, and certainly is, the kryptonite of the other European bigs.

According to ESPN, one of the reasons Arsenal backed out of a deal was because of Grima’s expected wage demands. Additionally, the club were also unwilling to break the world record for the transfer fee either. The in demand defender was also a key transfer target for the French club Lyon, who reportedly made a $1 million bid, and eventually lost to the London club.

Girma not only saw that Chelsea were willing to be meet her demands, she was convinced by the ambitious environment shown.

"Look, she's the best defender I've ever seen," said former Chelsea head coach and current USWNT manager Emma Hayes when speaking about Girma at the Paris Olympics. The centre-back was the No 1 pick in the first round of the 2022 NWSL draft after a stellar time captaining Stanford University’s team in the college system - it is no surprise to her reach such heights at a young age.

The American’s spatial awareness makes her a great reader of the game, and a tough last-man to beat. She’s not beaten easily in physical battles, and seems to have the perfect amount of relentless and collected under pressure.

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Consequently, the January window has slowly built a reputation for ‘time to make strong moves’ as clubs have a limited amount of time (33 full days), to sharpen up their squad one final time for the season. Some teams enter the market dealing with injured bodies, others are working with a different manager than they started the season with, and most are looking to improve what they already have should the funds be available.

According to a FIFA report, the majority of transfers during the 2024 January transfer window - 79.3 per cent - were associated with out-of-contract players. Yet, for the first time in any January transfer window, more than 10 per cent of the transfers were permanent transfers with a transfer agreement between the two clubs.

In simpler terms, more money is being spent in January than ever before.

Women’s clubs spent $2.1m (£1.7m) on transfer fees in January 2024, a record figure and an increase of 150 per cent from the same window a year earlier. The Janaury window is pushing the ceiling on transfers, changing the dynamics of how player assets are being assessed.

2023 proved to be a big jump, with a 50 per cent increase in the number of transfers that included a fee in, and a 31.3 per cent shoot up in the January window. Despite this, 92 per cent of women’s transfers did not involve a fee that year, according to FIFA’s annual global transfers report.

Free transfers are common in the women’s game because, traditionally, players’ contracts run short and have a length of a year or 18 months, per various FIFA reports - a slowly changing trend. Clubs would rather get the player on a free in six months time, than to pay a transfer fee at the start of the year.

With a new transfer fee recorded, it's becoming abundantly clear that players are on the way to being their clubs’ most valuable assets. As their worth goes up, so do the sums other clubs are willing to pay. There is no denying this makes the gap between clubs larger depending on the resources they are working with, but this can operate as a motivator.

Investors, club owners and sporting directors are put on alert watching the market, and the standards be driven upwards. Spending heavy bags on players alongside investing in academy products will play a huge role in the health of clubs moving forward, much more than before. Given the trend of the game, homegrown talent is a valuable stock that will continue to shoot up.

Less than 24 months ago, we were asking ourself how far is the sport from hitting a $1.0 million transfer. Today, we celebrate Girma’s story as a defender, born in California to Ethiopian-immigrant parents that has made history. Next, we chatter to see who will beat this number next.

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At the age of just 23, Maria Grohs has become one of the best goalkeepers in women’s football. Shutouts, flashy penalty saves and back-to-back league championships are some of the defining highlights of her young yet impressive career so far.

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Nicknamed “Mala” by her childhood friends and teammates, that’s the name FC Bayern’s no.22 now goes by on and off the pitch. Born and raised in Münster right on the Dutch border, Groh’s younger brother spent every weekend on the football pitch playing for 1. FC Gievenbeck. With their parents unable to make every match, it was Mala who became his shadow, making the weekly trip, watching closely and developing her own passion for the game.

“I started playing next to the field and really enjoyed it and started playing football in school as well,” Grohs told SHE Scores Bangers. “It was actually my teacher in primary school who told my parents, ‘it would be a good idea to let her play.’”

Though many ‘keepers start kicking the ball in an out-field position, Grohs got familiar standing between the sticks from the early stages.

In addition to football, Grohs balanced ballet dancing and violin classes. Finding her true passion on the pitch, ballet eventually fell by the wayside, while her violin lessons continued up until she finished school. The music? It still makes an appearance sometimes.

“I still have my violin and play when I have time or feel like it,” she laughs.

The German goalie was active in the regional scene playing with different players and showcasing her talent to various coaches who would be visiting from across the country. When she was 14, Mala went on an Airbus Defence and Space school internship 700 kilometres away from home in Munich. The space enthusiast could not go out for a run due to the harsh winter, but her coaches back in Münster made sure she stayed active.

“My coach asked Bayern if I could train with them and they said, ‘yeah, of course, no problem, but our under 17 girls team is not training right now. So you can join with the senior squad,’ that was cool to me so I went,” Grohs told SHE Scores Bangers.

“I got to know the goalkeeper coach back then and trained a few times with the first and second teams. It was an outstanding experience for me to meet the numerous role models I admired. The goalkeeper coach told me, ‘I could really imagine having you with us in the club,’ but I said I wanted to finish school first. He responded, ‘No problem. You can always call us, and I’ll call you.’ As the years went by, he actually did call me. That’s why I came back to Bayern for another trial, and then I decided I wanted to stay.”

Indeed, school was always a priority for the German talent. Though many of her friends went to boarding school and moved across the country to pursue a professional career, Grohs opted to stay close to family until she was 18. After almost 10 years with Gievenbeck, Mala joined VfL Bochum. With the addition of youth international call-ups, balancing things out was key.

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“I talked to my teachers and staff members of the school that I really wanted to stay, but I also wanted to play football. I got all the support I needed from them,” says Grohs. “I could go on a training camp and take schoolwork with me. I could skip a lesson if necessary to go to training, it was really no problem.”

Once graduated, the promised call from FC Bayern came, and the Münster native signed with the second team in 2019, making her debut in a 4-1 win over Eintracht Frankfurt II. Grohs enjoyed the culture of the club, was training regularly with the first team and had a quick rise with all coaches taken aback by her abilities.

“From the beginning, I was allowed to train once or twice a week with the first team goalkeeping group, so that’s was where I got the first contact with them,” says Grohs

After just 10 appearances, Mala signed with the first team in April. This meant she would join the first team squad for the upcoming 2020/21 season.

“At that time, a lot of people told me to go to a smaller club where I could play for the first team and play the games I needed because it's so important to get match practice. But I knew I wanted to end up in a big club,” recalls Grohs. “I wanted to make my way through, that was my plan and it turned out so good. I didn't want to go somewhere else.”

FC Bayern has put great emphasis on developing talent in the second team to prepare them for the next step. Sydney Lohmann and Franziska Kett who play in the current squad, both spent some time with Bayern Munich II before signing with the first team.

Mala regularly trained with Peter Kargus when she first joined the Munich club, a coach who has worked with almost all Bayern ‘keepers for over 16 years. This approach has provided a stable environment for youngsters to properly develop into players who can play in the Frauen Bundesliga and UWCL.

Trusting her skill set and ready to pounce on the opportunity when it came Grohs had her league debut in April of 2021, an eventual 3-2 defeat to Hoffenheim. She was still 19 at the time.

“I knew I was going to get my league debut a week or two before it happened because the other goalkeeper was injured. Nobody told me, but of course, I could see that she's not going to be fit,” Says Grohs.

“There was a lot on the line because we were in a good position in the league and didn't want to lose it. But then, of course, we did lose that game. Still, I was very proud and it was probably one of the best games I could have played with what skills I had. It was nice but we lost so afterwards I was, of course, very sad.”

What has set the German ‘keeper apart from others among many things, is her ability to bounce back after an out-of-character performance, or a blunder during the game. That is no coincidence given this is something she has continually worked towards.

Across 21 games last season, Grohs only conceded seven goals in the league, securing a clean sheet in 15 of those fixtures. Not only did this award her the Bundesliga Golden Glove at the end of the season, but it was the best ratio across Europe’s top five leagues.

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The secret? Nailing down mental focus and the right arousal levels.

“I work very hard on my routines before the match in terms of how I approach the game. For example, I learned that I do better when I focus on one, two or three things. I don't go into a match thinking I want to do everything perfectly today, then I can’t focus on something specific. When I do my analysis of the game before, I take out two things I want to do better next time.

The second thing I learned is monitoring my body’s activity level. There's a specific activity stage where I have my best performances. It’s a perfect in-between where I’m not too stressed or super calm, and I’ve tried to learn how to reach that level of activity during all 90 minutes in a match. During a game, I expect one or two actions that are important and I’ve learnt to put myself, even if I expect an easy match, to be at the peak level so that I don’t miss these few important moments.”

Grohs had many stand-out saves last season, but nothing shines more than her three saves in the DFB Pokal semi-final penalty shootout against Frankfurt. The victory took Bayern to the cup final after a six-year absence, eventually losing to Wolfsburg and turning focus on the league. Lohmann had commented that Grohs did not save any penalties in training the day before.

“I was quite easy about it because the penalty shooting we did was for our players to have a good feeling about their shot. It's even harder for me to save penalties from players I know because I overthink it and then it doesn't work at all," she says with a laugh.

Just a year prior to that in her first UWCL season, the German ‘keeper was huge in saving what was a game-deciding penalty in the 89th minute against Benfica in the group stages. Minutes after keeping the scoreline tied, Georgia Stanway scored a rocket securing the 3-2 win.

“Over the years, I’ve scanned how players look and move before they shoot in a certain direction, my IQ has grown, and I might not be aware of it but my brain knows, it has this advantage and I just let it all flow,” explains Grohs.

“For the Frankfurt game, I had a table on my bottle with some information, but still for one of them, I was wrong. One of the players that took a shot wasn't even on my table and I got a little stressed that I couldn't find her. But it was a good moment where everything came together and I had the trust in myself.”

Speaking of UWCL, the German side exited the group stages in the 23/24 season, a disappointing result given the manner they dropped points versus Rome, PSG and Ajax. Injuries to star players and losing focus in vital moments cost the team plenty.

“We are caring for each other and that’s what brings the best out of us. We know we are trusted by our teammates, and we trust each other. I'm so happy to have all those players around me that’s why we are good at handling difficult situations quite well,” she explains.

Looking to push for a deeper run and a third consecutive league title, there is a lot to be excited for.

“I’m really looking forward to the Champions League and those bigger games. I want to see if what I do in training is making me a better goalkeeper or not, or at least know how it's going,” Grohs explains. “I’m excited to play again every week and get into that rhythm that we are used to, I miss it.

“I like the matches we have against Barcelona. It's fun facing them because they're playing the football we want to play as well. So it's always interesting to see how close we’ve come.”

With training hard, playing every week, and taking care of the mental aspect of the game, Mala’s celebration guilty pleasure includes, “I love to eat fries, and I like everything sweet. Cake and ice cream usually.”

Off the pitch, Grohs is currently studying mechanical engineering at a local university, completing her degree online as this is the career path she considers once she hangs up her gloves. And when it’s summertime, Mala enjoys spending a few weeks on a rented boat with family exploring different seas and oceans.

A piece of advice Grohs wants to leave fans and youth with is, “A lot of people were giving me advice, but I always knew what I wanted to do. That can also go wrong, but you can change direction again. If you know what you want to do, ignore what's outside and stay focused on your goal.”

U.S.A, Brazil, Germany - is how the podium looked on Saturday at the Olympics, the first time that the top three did not include Canada since 2008.

The Olympic games have long been a canvas for the Canadian Women’s National team to write historical achievements, but Paris 2024 recorded an unforeseen series of events.

Women’s football at the Olympics operates differently to the men’s side of the competition. With youth requirements absent, the tournament acts as a senior international competition. This has fuelled criticism over the last two editions given the schedule congestion of senior football, rise of serious injuries, and the lack of enough high level competitions in youth football.

Regardless, Canada has figured out the recipe to find success at the Olympics over the last decade.

Their Paris journey ended in a quarter-final exit following a penalty shootout loss to Germany. Scoreless after 120 minutes, the game was decided by Ann Katrine Berger’s brilliance in saving two of Canada’s penalties, and converting her own. Yet, the 24 missed chances at goal was the real dagger for Canada’s exit.

That is not what all headlines have been about though, but rather it has been news of Head Coach Bev Priestman and her staff’s history of drone usage to spy on opponents. The scandal all came to light after Canada was caught operating a drone to spy on New Zealand’s training camp. Drone enthusiast Rebekah Stott was first to notice the loud device in the air, and flag it to French authorities.

Let’s break it all down.

The history

Canada qualified for their first ever Olympic in 2008, marking Christine Sinclair debut at the tournament who managed to score two goals. Les Rouge bowed out against the Americans in the next round, who eventually went on to capture gold.

When the 2012 games in London rolled around, Canada was ranked 7th in the world, the John Herdman era was underway, Sinclair was showing off her magic, and a set of exciting players were in the squad. Over 12 million Canadians tuned into the dramatic 4-3 semi-final heartbreak against familiar enemies, the USWNT, send the red and white jerseys to the third-place play-off game.

With fire in their belly, Canada wanted to podium. A historic 92nd minute strike by then 28-year old Diana Matheson against France secured bronze. Her first goal of the tournament achieved the nation’s first major tournament medal in football.

Four years later in Rio, the Canucks were bouncing off a disappointing home World Cup showing, but a new era was underway. A young Jessie Fleming, Kadeisha Buchanan, Ashley Lawrence and Deanne Rose became first-time Olympians when names into the 18 player squad. Combined with Sinclair, Matheson and Rhian Wilkinson, it seemed like Canada found a delicate mix between the vets and the rookies.

For the first time ever, Canada topped their Olympic group defeating Australia, Germany and Zimbabwe with then 22 year old Janine Beckie stealing the show. Conquering France, the Canucks fell to eventual winners Germany in the quarter-finals, a feeling they were all too familiar with. It did not matter, because Rose and ‘Sincy made sure the bronze was theirs once again sending heartbreak to Brazil.

Just appointed into her position months before the Tokyo Olympics, Priestman said, “We definitely need to change the colour of the medal.” The only way to back such statement up was that Canada had to make the final, something they hadn’t before.

COVID was in full swing, no crowds, hot weather, new head coach, and the relentless mindset of wanting to make history.

Two draws and a win in the group stages meant Canada had a shaky start finishing second in the standing. An ugly and slow showing against Brazil was determined by a penalty shootout. Then came the Americans who had historically gotten the best out of this fixture.

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Fleming converted from the spot for the sole goal, and indeed Canada was now one win away from claiming gold. Continuing the streak of moving on from penalties, Steph Labbé masterclass versus Sweden meant Les Rouges left Japan as no.1, with a different colour medal around the necks.

Ripple effect

Three consecutive podium finishes, more eyes on the team than ever, a well respected young head coach, and players taking their professional career to Europe’s biggest clubs was the post-covid feel.

The 2012 achievement sent a message to grassroots clubs across the country to invest more and build up. The 2016 dominate run inspired youth that are the rising stars of the current team. Olivia Smith was still 12, Jade Rose was still in middle school, and Jordyn Huitema was still playing for the U17.

Oddly enough, there was no substantial effort from Canada Soccer or any major organization to create a professional women’s soccer league in Canada.

There was federation fall-outs with the players, pay disputes, and athletes asking for what they deserve.

The 2023 World Cup group-stage exit was a wake up call to plenty of what had occurred over the last few years with the CanWNT. But once again, the Olympics was one year away, and the focus was turned onto that quickly.

So, Paris.

Headed into the France with a winning streak after a successful home send off, Canada spent their preparation camp in sunny Sevilla, Spain. There, CanWNT won two practice friendly games against Nigeria and Australia, trained every day, took occasional dives into the pool for relaxation, and got fitter for the gruelling schedule ahead. Indeed, it was too good to be true.

Drawn into arguably the “easiest” group, Canada had to take on New Zealand, France and Colombia. Two days before the opening game, a drone scandal erupted, questions were fielded, and the status of the team was up in the air. Denying she directed assistant coaches Joey Lombardi and Jasmine Mander to fly the drone, Priestman voluntary withdrew her presence from the touchline for the game noting the integrity of the program.

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Canada went on to win 2-1, but the talk was about the news that followed. Launching multiple investigations, FIFA placed Priestman and her two other coaches on a 1 year football-related suspension, handed CS a $300k fee, and gave the team the prize of relegation with a bow.

The team was hit with a six point deduction which meant the Canadians had to win their remaining two games if they had any hope of getting out the groups. That, they did. In the stadium, on the pitch, 18 players fought, battled, and showed their best self against many odds.

Sleepless nights, days filled with confusion, dealing with the feeling of betrayal, contemplating their stay, and punching walls were the events occurring in the hotel. Extra coaching and mental health support staff were flying in from Canada to assist in the chaos that was so hard to contain.

Vanessa Gilles’ two winning goals made the excitement of the fans back home, also so hard to contain.

The journey came to an end against Germany, who would go on to win bronze by defeating Spain in the play-off match. Exhausted after a 120 minutes, the players did not shed their tears alone on the grass. Instead, they comforted each other in groups, attempted to console Lawrence and Leon who missed from the spot, and hugged the staff. The players made it clear they were playing for each other which meant the display of agony also happened together.

“I am incredibly proud of our team and what we have overcome. Though the outcome wasn’t what we had hoped for, we can hold our heads high, knowing what we have achieved.” First time Olympian Cloé Lacasse wrote on her IG.

“Obviously not how we wanted the Olympics to end but what a ride it has been. Proud of this group and forever thankful for everyone who helped us and supported us through it all“ Vanessa Gilles wrote on social media.

Those were of some of the few released player statement following the conclusion of the 2024 Olympics.

Fans back home were proud of the team who had to overcome the consequences of their coaches’ dishonour, and the uninspiring news resulted in inspiring performances.

Moving forward.

The New Zealand camp may have thought they discovered a drone, but in reality they unraveled an entire scheme happening at Canada Soccer, and the house must be cleared now.

In some ways, this comes at a good time given where the nation stands in the sport.

New CEO and General Secretary Kevin Blue, who was appointed in February, has added a fresh level of transparency the federation has been needing for many years now. Hiring Jesse Marsch to take over the men’s national team after the departure of Herdman and co., gave the group of players a fresh and strong start.

Blue is known for his ability to fundraise at his previous job as Chief Sport Officer of Golf Canada and he has has already translated that into the soccer world. If anything, the new CEO is equipped to deal with this mess and will not be afraid to take the tough, yet appropriate action.

Priestman has risen through the ranks at Canada Soccer managing various youth teams, had a stint as the assistant coach, and worked with many up and coming coaches in her role as CanWNT head coach. Her wife, Emma Humphries, a Kiwi native, currently manages the U17 team. Mander, one of the suspended coaches, manages the U15 squad. Lombardi, the staff member caught operating the drone, is the Ontario National Development Centre Director among a few other roles across the country.

Priestman and her staff have their fingerprints all over the program, that is known and out in the open. The task at hand is finding out who is complicit, who is operating and building on a rotten coaching culture, and who has put the program at risk before. Regardless of how many individuals come out as part of this, there will be many that should leave Canada Soccer. A deep house cleaning will happen.

The Northern Super League, Canada’s first ever professional women’s soccer league is set to launch in April of 2025. There is huge belief the new set up will develop talent, provide professional opportunities for many Canadians, and build a sustainable pipeline to the CanWNT. In this process, many coaches are being pulled for the national team system, where had this scandal come out when many of those coaches are managing clubs, the ripple effect would have been ugly.

For this to happen now, all the women’s NT groups can start from fresh, perhaps something they have been calling for, for some time. The NSL will think about adding a “drone back-round check” to the coaches that will come into the league, re-assuring the integrity of the sport.

Change is all about timing, and whilst not many could have predicted such events at the Olympics, change was inevitably coming for the better for Canadian soccer.

Brazil squeezed out of the group stages as one of the best two teams finishing third in their group standing, and they have just booked their ticket to the final. Standing in their way is four-time Olympic champions and familiar opponents, the USWNT.

This means the final on Saturday will be a repeat of the 2004 and 2008 finals, both of which were won by the Americans. The legendary Marta will play her final game in a Brazilian shirt that evening, looking to end a historic international career with a gold medal around her neck. Here is how the battle might play out given what we have seen so far.

USWNT attacking line is clutch

Two late goals in extra time is the narrative of how the USWNT got through the knock out stages so far. To the rescue has been Sophia Smith against Germany, and Trinity Rodman against a frustrating Japan after playing goal-less for 90 minutes. The duo in addition to Mallory Swanson, have scored three goals each in the tournament so far, with each picking up at least an assist.

The USWNT front-line has clicked regardless of opposition and which moment in the game they are in, they have capitalized on the key moments. Germany rolled out a 4-4-2 against the U.S., a formation they have stuck with all tournament so far.

Looking to beat that, USWNT head coach Emma Hayes opted to do the same with Rose Lavelle pulling out to the left as Smith and Swanson combined as the central pair. Crystal Dunn would start the attack and help the U.S load up front with almost five options to choose from.

Yet, the central midfield work by Sam Coffey and Lindsey Horan was not clicking for the majority of the game. Imbalanced and not on the same page, the two struggled to get one up against the aggressive German set-up. However, the injuries of Lea Schüller and Alex Popp forced the European side to move things around, that in some ways allowed the U.S to go unpunished in the middle.

Lynn Williams has come off the bench in all her minutes this tournament, and her versatility has been showcased over and over again. Maybe the unsung hero in some of the last few games, but Williams has shown to “understand the assignment” with every shift she’s put in so far.

Goals win games, and the attackers are usually responsible for finding the net. This is great news for the USA whose all three attackers have the highest shots on target in the tournament so far, putting on display a front-line that trusts it’s ability to shoot, and have allowed it’s creative input to come out.

Afterall, even with a midfield that struggled and a frontline that did not get the service it desires, it was the quality of pace and clinical nature by Smith that takes her team to the final. Ironically, Smith celebrates her 24th on Saturday, a birthday goal would certainly be special.

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Naomi Girma is massive

"The best defender I've ever seen. Ever. I've never seen a player as good as her in the back." Hayes told reporters post-game on Tuesday. That is a fair and valid comment to say given the performances (s) Girma has had this tournament.

The American defender was there to clear every ball Germany put in the box. Wether that was a cross coming in from either flank, or a central pass, Girma was ready to intercept and steer away danger. Aware of her surrounding and where the opposition is, Girma uses both feet and her head to get her body in the way, and that has been monumental.

Germany grew frustrated finding Girma at the end of every ball in the box, but her non stop hustle meant whichever option they seeked, Girma was still there. More impressive than anything, is how disciplined the San Diego defender is, almost never getting stuck in a bad challenge or giving her opponents a reason to content a call.

Girma’s partnership with Emily Fox in the back has made the duo hard to breakdown and breakup. The U.S. have only conceded two goals up until this point, both coming in the group stages. It’s been an Alyssa Naeher masterclass behind the solid backline. Present, clean, and dominant is what Girma has been at the Olympics for the USWNT.

Brazil has squad depth

Head Coach Arthur Elias has had to work around injuries, using the alternate list and switching things up from the first game of the tournament. Coming in to the semi-final battle against Spain, Brazil was without key names like Tamires and Rafaelle Souza due to injury as well as Marta who was serving a two game suspension following a straight red card in the finale group stage game.

Elias surprised some against Japan when he rolled out six changes in the starting XI compared to the previous line-up that took on Nigeria in the opening game. And whilst the majority of changes that have happened up to this stage of tournament have been due to injuries, Brazil have used that time to gel together and build unexplored partnerships.

Yasmim and Ana Vitória in particular have been impressive with their contribution on the fast break. Yamsim scored her first assist of the tournament in Brazil’s second goal against Spain in the semi-finals and went on to play the entire game.

Lauren started both games against Spain in the back, but showed her improved awareness of the Spaniards crosses on Tuesday, which was a crucial element in Brazil defensive job. Though concerns at the start of the month that the team had not glued together, Brazil have made the most out of playing under uncomfortable circumstances.

There is a generation shift happening in the Brazilian squad, and transition aches were bound to happen at some point. The level of heart the team showed in their 4-2 semi-final victory spoke volume about this set of players and the excitement they can bring on a good day. Three years away from hosting a World Cup, this is exactly what Brazil needed to do, especially after a disappointing 2023 World Cup. Under the leadership of Marta, she has brought up these youngsters now fighting to get a gold medal around her neck

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Deadly counter-attacks.

They way to beat Spain has been to catch them on the counter-attack, but that is much easier said than done. The World Champions don’t often loose possession, Cata Coll has been fairly consistent, and the backline has improved at tracking back, yet, they have been leaky. Brazil approached the semi-final in the perfect manner.

Two of the four goals Brazil scored on Tuesday were the result of quick counter-attacking football. In fact, had Brazil been more clinical, the scoreline would have looked much more devastating that what it ended up being. Elias’s side had plenty of joy making runs between Spain’s centre-backs who struggled to close Brazil down. Additionally, Olga Carmona struggled with all defensive duties in the back.

Though Brazil’s attacking frontline looks different to what it did 12 months ago at the World Cup, it is not short of aggressive runners who can strike with calmness. Heading into the final, Brazil has had six different goal scorers this tournament, with Gabi Portilho the only player responsible for two.

The 3-4-3 Brazil rolled out punished a Spain side that was disorganized in the back, and it was fully deserved. Plenty of what went wrong for the South American nation in the group stages was tweaked and improved on during Tuesday’s showdown.

It will deliver.

It is hard to predict a women’s Olympic football bingo card, and therefore difficult to pinpoint a clear winner for Saturday’s showdown. How will the USWNT manage load and tired legs will be a part of the answer, but so will the number of injuries surrounding the Brazilian camp on match-day.

It is clear however, that the final will be an exciting match-up to end what has been an entertaining women’s football tournament. Will football want to write the fairy-tail ending for Marta, or will it look dignify the start of Emma Hayes’ international football era in dominance?

After 18 football matches in one week at the Olympic games, eight nations have booked their ticket to the quarter-final stages of the tournament.

Given the quick and congested schedule of the Olympics, the quarter-finalists can say they are halfway through the competition as the chance to play for a medal is only win away. There has been many take-way lessons that set expectations for the upcoming rounds in how the teams will do, here is a deep dive.

The United States

The USWNT was the first to secure their position in the next round after two dominant wins over Zambia and Germany, followed by a clean victory against the Matildas to make it three from three. The Americans’ new era under head coach Emma Hayes is off to a flying start and the proof is in the football displayed so far.

Coming into France, questions loomed surrounding the teams after goal-shy performances in the warm-up friendlies with worries extending from last years’ World Cup, under then head coach, Vlatko Andonovski.

The attacking firepower made up by Sophia Smith, Trinity Rodman and Mallory Swanson have answered some concerns with a statement. All three attackers sit in the top five of the tournament in average shots on goals, with Smith leading the trio at an avg. 4.3 shots per game. Collectively, they have scored seven, and when not hitting goals, they are providing them, as all three have achieved at-least an assist each.

In comparison to last summer, the USWNT recorded only four shots on target against The Netherlands in the group stages where the points were shared off a 1-1 result. Both Rodman and Smith were starters that evening with the exception of Alex Morgan in between.

Hayes’s urgent style of play when moving possession forward has brought out the best out the talented frontline, who not only have found opportunity to put their finishing qualities on display, but creative input as-well. The U.S. will have to deal without Sam Coffey against Japan in the QF due to accumulation of yellow cards.

The an unrotated starting XI against Australia on Wednesday brews questions as to why Sam Coffey started given she was one yellow card away from a suspension, and qualification was already secured. This coupled with Tierna Davidson injury concerns might push Emily Sonnett to slot into centre-back again on Saturday. Recent substitution patterns suggest, Korbin Albert could be given the nod, too. Not to mention, the unrested players will have to up the amount of rest in prevention of tiring out.

Spain

Spain may be the only team debuting this Olympic games, but it does not look like their first run-do at a tough congested tournament schedule. The World Champions topped their group winning all three possible games and will now face Colombia.

The Spaniards had to overcome three completely different opponents in Nigeria, Japan and Brazil, each presenting their own problems. Having recorded 20 shots against the Super Falcons and dominated just over 70% possession, it was a brilliant Alexia Putellas freekick that made the difference in the final minutes of the game.

In the opener, it was Japan who opened the scoring first and made Spain work from behind. Dominating possession like expected, they did not look overly clinically up top, but moving the ball so well and providing many different looks up top, the goals rolled in.

The reigning world champions have learnt to stay calm, continue poking at backlines, and the trust that the break-though will eventually come. Wether that is through a moment of brilliance like recently seen, or opposition backlines unable to defend all 90 minutes, Spain have not rushed to hit the panic button.

All 18 players are on the same page to keep going, keep moving the ball, and keep passing fluidly and intelligently. It was quick passing that led to goals versus Brazil and Japan. Spain trust in how they are able to move the ball, and it is a step ahead any other team in tournament. This has helped Spain maintain nerves when the are behind, but also not become reckless when the whistle is about to blow and they have not scored yet.

France

The host nation topped their group with two wins, and a loss to the reigning Olympic champions in Group A, booking their ticket to face Brazil. Yet, even with the home crowd and on home soil, they have not looked utterly convincing.

Les Blues struggled to keep a clean sheet in any of the group stage fixtures, conceding five across the three games, four of which coming in the second half. Injuries to captain Wendie Renard and Élisa De Almeida in the backline have forced rotations, hindering momentum and producing an inconsistent French defensive unit.

Additionally, France’s goalkeeper department is lacking a standout talent. Number one option Pauline Peyraud-Magnin has become error prone in the last two years, unable to guarantee shutouts for her side. Back-up ‘keeper Constance Picaud picked up her 8th senior cap as a substitute against Canada in the second game of the tournament, conceding Canada’s winner.

What has made up for defensive errors, is the dominance up top with the return of Marie-Antoinette Katoto who currently leads the golden boot race with five goals. The French forward sustained an ACL injury one game into Euro 2022, sidelining her for over a year missing the 2023 World Cup.

As the saying goes this Olympics, when Katoto shoots, Katoto scores. Finding the net for five of the seven shots taken on goal, is why backline try to close in on Katoto as fast and as soon as possible.

Japan

Japan have not looked as smooth as the Japan from last summer, yet have impressed with the bank of ideas they have pulled from, making them too tricky to knock out. Since being in the role, head coach Futoshi Ikeda has enjoyed rotating his starting XI and tailoring it depending on opposition, and in some ways, having that skill has played greatly to his benefit this Olympics.

Three different Japan line-ups pushed opponents to spend more time adjusting, who eventually could not crack into answers on how to completely shut down Japan. Heading into their second game against Brazil, injuries mounted with Risa Shimizu pulling out and Aoba Fujino unavailable for selection. In their finale game against Nigeria, Japan took a front foot approach which awarded them with 10 shots on goal.

The new alternate rule allowed for names to be called in, and the challenge of big injuries early have showcased the depth Japan have across the 22 players. All of Japan’s five goals were scored by a different player, the most out of any of the advancing squads. They have scored from, a direct freekick, the spot, off the counter, and from building from the back thus far.

Yui Hasegawa has been a key operator in the midfield in starting all three games. The Manchester City midfielder has acted as the glue between clearing the ball form behind, to providing the slicing passes up front.

Equally, Ikeda’s roll out of a 3-4-3 or 5-3-2 sees great numbers defending, which made it hard for both Nigeria and Brazil to puncture Japan’s backline with ease. A quick sequence of plays by the Spanish was too hard to defend, handing the Japanese a loss in the opening game. Japan and the USWNT fixture in the quarter-finals will be a chess match, with two completely schools of football battle-ing it out.

Brazil

The South American nation was one of the two teams to proceed after finishing third in their group, upping Australia with a single goal on the GD. To say it was tight is an understatement.

The 18 player squad has seen lots of changes in comparison to last summer at the World Cup. A new look squad missing the likes of Debinha, Bia Zaneratto, Andressa Alves and Geyse, as well as working with a new head coach, the transition aches were clear this group stage.

There has been an emphasis on adding young players in the squad, versatile players able to play in multiple positions, and keeping important veterans like the legendary Marta, and former Arsenal defender Rafaelle Souza at the centre of things.

As a result, the depth of players Brazil almost got them the win over Japan, but almost, is not enough. Ana Vitoria, Priscila, and Angelina were standout players that loss, and will have made a case to play good minutes against France in the QF.

After dropping all three points against the Japanese, it became an uphill task of having to beat Spain next. Going down to 10 players after Marta was handed a straight red, made the task even harder. The Brazilian icon will now miss the QF fixture, meaning she could have just played her last international game.

Antônia Silva went down with injury in the final minutes versus Spain, with reports confirming she suffered a fractured fibula. The key defender started all games so far and has been a key player in keeping flank pressure away. Silva’s partnership with Souza has been strong, and fun to watch. It will be interesting to see how Brazil adjusts to the losses and injuries pilling up. The Olympic schedule does not make it much easier either.

Colombia

Loosing two games and having an underwhelming win over New Zealand, Colombia have done just enough to go through as the second nation finishing third in their group standing.

Las Chicas had an almost miraculous comeback against the hosts in their opening game, scoring two goals in the second half after going 3-0 down. A red card to Mayra Ramírez slowed down momentum and took out Colombia’s biggest threats up front. Ramírez’s suspension ran for the next two game, but she will back available in the quarterfinals.

Current head coach Ángelo Marsiglia was one of the assistant coaches last summer, and that managerial change is apparent. Needing just a draw against Canada draw to finish second in the group, it was odd to see no desire in finding the net for a consistent run of plays. The final 10 minuted, including added time, Colombia pushed on, but it was a little too late by then. Often, the team stood still with not much care to keep the ball tightly. Colombia lost possession too easily causing careless turnover that ended in the favour of Canada.

Linda Caicedo has been a bright light in creating chances for her teammates, unable to find the devastating finisher off her service. Equally, opposition, and very clearly Canada, make it a priority to close down Caicedo. If anything, Spain are very familiar with the Real Madrid winger and know her tendencies very well.

Germany

Loosing Lena Oberdorf a week away from the Olympics kick off was far from ideal for Germany. Yet, they have done well in what was a tricky group. Sticking with a 4-4-2 to make up for the loss of Oberdorf and enforce attacking talent, Germany placed second in the standing.

The Europeans opened their campaign with a convincing 3-0 win over an un-inspiring Australian side. Off the corner delivery, it was Giulia Gwinn’s superb crosses that assist two of the three goals. Too worried defending Alex Popp, Lea Schüller was ignored by the Australian players, a bad mistake, and she scored both.

Shüller in particular has now eight goal contributions in Germany’s last seven games. The Bayern forward has looked sharp in finishing, and smart in her runs between pocket. Impressive up front have been Jule Brand and Klara Bühl. Germany’s set of attackers should frighten any team.

Germany fell short against the Americans in a 3-1 defeat, and the forced defensive changes were a contributor. The Germans lost Sarai Linder after the opening game, Marina Hegering in the warm-up, and then her defensive partner Kathrin Hendrich just 20 minutes into the game.

Canada

The Canadians have sure dominated the headlines this Olympics, and probably not in the best light. Despite a six-point deduction by FIFA following coaching staff cheating with a drone over New Zealand’s training camp, the team won all three games and placed second in their group.

There will be questions asked regarding the allegations, 12 ongoing investigations and imposed sanctions, but there is little to question about the grit and resilience the group showed in the two must win games. A shrunk down coaching staff, and dealing with the betrayal of a coach, it has not been an easy week for the 22 players in camp.

Canada were the better team when it mattered most against France, who let their 1-0 lead slip. Les Rouge pushed the pace in the second half, kept Diani and Katoto quiet for the majority of the game, and took their chances at an inexperienced goal keeper.

Jade Rose, has been a monumental talent for the Canadians so far. Dealing with Jayde Riviere’s injury, Rose has played all 270 minutes at a high level. Tasked with defending the likes of Caicedo and the French runner, Rose played a like a veteran.

Canada have approached all three games differently. That could be a result to the forced coaching staff change which has placed Andy Spence as the leader, or tactical versatility based on opposition. Through it all, there has been speed and high press action from the set of forwards, and a Vanessa Gilles coming in clutch with two winning goals.

It went from too good to be true, to far from ideal for the Canadian Women’s National team in France in a matter of days. The final stages of preparation to take on New Zealand in the 2024 Paris opening fixture looked different this week.

What happened?

On Tuesday the 22nd of June, a drone was spotted flying over New Zealand’s training camp in Saint-Etienne, the base for both teams in the early phases of these Olympics. Security and French authorities were alerted, promoting an immediate stop to the training session after securing grounds and intercepting the drone. An unaccredited member for the CanWNT staff was detained by police and taken for questioning.

The following day after admitting guilt and verifying the events in a statement, The Canadian Olympic Committee confirmed the operator of the drone was Canada Soccer analyst Joseph Lombardi. He was reporting to assistant coach Jasmine Mander, who was also questioned by police in regards to her involvement. Lombardi faces legal consequences of flying a drone in a prohibited space, which included accepting a suspended sentence of 8 months' imprisonment. Mander was exonerated.

The COC immediately dismissed both assistant coaches from camp, who have been sent home following the incident. CanWNT head coach Bev Priestman voluntary withdrew herself from the game against New Zealand, where assistant coach Andy Spencer will replace her on the sidelines.

New Zealand Olympic Committee lodged a formal complaint against their Canadian counterparts and respective investigations have been launched by the IOC, COC, NZOC, Paris 2024, and Canada Soccer. Additionally, the FIFA Disciplinary Committee will investigate Canada Soccer, opening proceedings against the federation, Priestman, Lombardi and Mander.

Footage obtained by police revealed Lombardi operated a drone to spy on The Football Ferns on July 19th, July 20th, and July 22nd, amounting to five minutes of videos and images. Saint-Etienne prosecutor revealed that only Lombardi viewed and accessed the collected drone footage, but Mander was aware of the analysts’s spying attempt on the 22nd.

Priestman re-irritated taking accountability in regards to everything that happens in camp, but denied directing individuals. Senior player Janine Beckie told on ground reporters, “We’re obviously super disappointed in the events have happened. It doesn’t reflect Canadians or who we are as competitors.”

New Zealand football have also registered a complaint to FIFA and has asked that Canada not be awarded any points if they win the match on Thursday.

SO, why? And what does this mean?

Priestman had plenty of eyes on her going into this summer Olympics following a disappointing 2023 Women’s World Cup campaign, which saw the Canadians get knocked out in the group stages.

Not much later, the English women signed a contract extension until 2027, and the revenge tour was on. That has been haltered now. Details around flying the drone to obtain tactical information are still developing, and the reasons are bound to be revealed given the various ongoing investigations. Yet, it is difficult to narrate a scenario which completely exempts Priestman.

If Priestman is revealed to have had knowledge about the spying and she was indeed complicit, an immediate separation from the program is expected. In that case, continuing a career in coaching is highly doubtful.

Yet, if she really had no knowledge, then there are serious questions surrounding the trust between the coaching group and to which extent has Priestman lost control of her staff. Much easier to figure out is, in both cases, her future with the program is damming and there will be punishments for breaching integrity rules in such manner. The head coach is ultimately responsible for everything that happens in camp, and this incident took place under her watch.

A deep run with strong performances was the expectation of the Canadian team, but what sort of finish will it take for Priestman to save herself from being dismissed? Will a medal around her neck shut down this noise?

New Zealand has not found victory against the Canadians since 1987, are going into Paris without their head coach, and see seven more first-time Olympians than their opposition. So why would Lombardi feel the need to spy, put the entire program at risk, and resort to cheating against a team that statically has the lowest chance of beating Canada this Olympics?

Did Lombardi feel so out depth in his role that he felt the need to jeopardize the entire coaching staff, rather than step down? Was this part of Lombardi’s preparation routine and just happened to get caught this time? Did Lombardi feel a lack trust from Priestman with the duties she handed him? There are a lot of questions, and very few answers as of right now.

What is known about the current case is, it was reckless and dangerous behaviour that was bound to be found out, and thinking otherwise is disc-respectful to the Olympic games, New Zealand and the COC.

Canada found themselves in a perfect position heading into Thursday. A full two-week preparation camp in France hosted two victories against Nigeria and Australia in training match friendlies. During roster selection, Priestman hosted a small camp in Toronto assessing players. This was all following a solid home send-off series against Mexico. Unlike last summer, there was no federation noise, no pay dispute, no condition concerns, and no distractions. Everything was in place.

In some ways, it feels like CanWNT is allergic to calm and sound conditions. Wether that is coming from within camp, like the current situation, or from around camp like last summer, chaos is always right around the corner.

Not at fault for this, are the Canadian players. Though they have not cheated, their preparation phase had elements of breached integrity. The set of CanWNT players continue to be led down by those around them, and it happens to be those closest to them responsible for it this time. Both Lombardi and Mander were at last years’ World Cup, and therefore understand what off-field distraction can do - so why perpetrate it?

Canada’s performance against New Zealand, and more widely this Olympics, will be tarnished, their personal integrity will be called into question and their fair play will be questioned. It is a recipe for disaster.

Something happened that was completely avoidable and unnecessary, brewing more questions than answers. Players cannot be concerned on finding out those answers, as their best interests lie on grabbing a win against New Zealand, looking to go deep into the tournament, and field a fourth consecutive podium finish.

282 French women across 35 different sports will be representing their nation at this year’s Summer Olympics in Paris. All of them originate from diverse backgrounds, carry a unique story to becoming Olympians, and act as role models for those who dream of being the same. After all, “If you can see it, you can be it.” However, that is not the case for French women who wear the hijab (an Islamic headscarf).

In September of 2023, the International Olympic Committee ruled that participants in the Paris Olympics are free to wear the hijab during competition and in the village. Yet, this ruling does not stop federations from imposing their own participation rules.

Nevertheless, a few days later, French Sports Minister Amelie Oudea-Castera announced the country’s hijab ban on Muslim French athletes for the Olympics, in respect to principles of secularism. None of the athletes from visiting nations have to abide by the ruling as their federation does not have such regulation.   

This is not exclusive to just the Olympics. The deceleration is imposed in several sports in France, including football, basketball, and volleyball, in competitions at all levels, including youth and amateur ones. It further extends to coaches, support staff, and officials.

Unsurprisingly, the ban flies in the face of the human rights requirements for host countries and the IOC Strategic Framework on Human Rights - “explicit prohibition of discrimination” -  as well as being antithetical to the Fundamental Principles of Olympism which include, excellence, respect and friendship. Additionally, there is a clear violation of the Olympic Charter which states:

"The enjoyment of the rights and freedoms set forth in this Olympic Charter shall be secured without discrimination of any kind, such as race, colour, sex, sexual orientation, language, religion, political or other opinion, national or social origin, property, birth or other status."

So, what has the IOC said about this? Highlighted in a recent Amnesty International report, the IOC states, “France’s prohibition on sports hijabs was outside the remit of the Olympic movement,” claiming that “freedom of religion is interpreted in many different ways by different states.”

It is difficult to categorize this as a strong response as it completely fails to challenge France, and attempts to deflect authority. In fact, just last month, the IOC’s Executive Board recommended awarding the 2030 Winter Olympic and Paralympic Games to France.

CBC Senior contributor and award-winning journalist, Shireen Ahmed described France’s ban perfectly, “Forcing women outside of clothing is as violent as forcing them into it.”

In a time when women’s sports are bigger than ever, the exclusion of hijabi women participating at any level limits and hinders possible growth. Last year’s FIFA Women’s World Cup broke viewership, revenue, and attendance records, providing a glimpse into the future of the women’s game on both national and international levels.

This year’s Paris Olympics is expected to follow with more breaking records, but French women wearing a hijab are not allowed to be part of history.

Last summer in Australia and New Zealand, Moroccan defender Nouhaila Benzina was celebrated for being the first woman in hijab to play football at the highest level of women's sport. If Benzina lived in France, she would not be able to play for any club there, and if she was French, she would not be able to play for country.

“My message to hijabis is to stick to their dreams. It has nothing to do with sport, it is a personal choice.”  Benzina told FIFA during the World Cup.

Recent reports highlight the connection between the visibility of female athletes and the increase in girls’ participation numbers across sports, especially football. The kids see it, they want to become it. What about young Muslim girls in France?

Such discriminatory rules push women out of sports and discourage them from playing. Lina Boussaha is a midfielder and PSG academy graduate who represented France across four youth stages from 2015 to 2023.

In 2022, she decided to wear the hijab, which meant giving up professional football in her hometown and the country for which she had proudly worn the jersey. Today, she plays for Al Nassar FC in Saudi Arabia and represents Algeria on the international stage, a position granted through her parental descent.

Similarly, Diaba Konaté is a basketball player at the University of California, Irvine, who cannot represent France because she wears a hijab. Like Boussaha, she grew up in Paris and was forced to leave the country in pursuit of her passion. Even if Konaté were breaking NCAA records as Caitlin Clark did, she still wouldn’t be able to wear a France jersey - she simply isn’t welcome.

Women’s sports have been built, led by, and fought for, by athletes of all backgrounds who have instilled inclusivity, diversity, and inclusion as fundamental values of the sport.

Canada’s non-binary midfielder Quinn, the women of colour on the USWNT, and Morocco’s Benzina are living proof of that. Women’s football is inclusive, but it is a quota none of the French sporting federations fulfill. It has been the bigoted, racist, and homophobic individuals like Oudea-Castera in this case, that have allowed discrimination to persist. 

In another instance, Tina Rahimi will be the first female Muslim boxer to represent Australia at the Olympic Games this summer. However, if she were French, her hijab would prevent her from competing in Paris. In a recent TikTok on her personal account, Rahimi opened up about France and the hijab ban. She questions, “How is my hijab going to affect anything?”

The truth is, wearing a headscarf during a sporting event does not make one a better or worse player, nor does it say anything about their skill level. Just like their teammates or opponents, they are there to compete, not preach about their religion or spread the gospel. French policymakers suggesting the hijab is a threat to sports bite into nothing more than misinformation and Islamophobia.

Despite an Amnesty International report pointing out the violations caused by the hijab ban, public outrage, and incongruence with the Olympic charter, France’s xenophobic system does not care and will continue to persist, casting a dark cloud on women’s sports. This has nothing to do with secularism or Western values, it is bluntly racist.

The Olympic Charter in itself states: “The practice of sport is a human right. Every individual must have access to the practice of sport, without discrimination of any kind in respect of internationally recognised human rights within the remit of the Olympic Movement.”

The 2024 Paris Olympics and Paralympics will likely be remembered as a blemish on gender equality and the principles that women’s sports stand for. By going against the Olympic Charter, the host nation, France, denies some girls and women their guaranteed right to participate in sports. That is shameful, and quite frankly, sad.

Responses have been lightly edited for clarity and length.

When Temwa Chawinga signed for Kansas City Current at the start of the year, she made history as the first Malawian player to join the National Women’s Super League. Since then, the forward has been rewriting the record books with her historic achievements.

Arriving as the 2023 world’s leading goalscorer with 63 goals, it was only a matter of time until Chawinga opened a superb scoring tally in the US. And indeed, the Malawian striker sits atop of the Golden Boot race half way through the season, with her first goal coming only three games in, during a 4-2 home victory over Angel City.

The secret breakfast? “I like some eggs and maybe some fruits. But it's not because of the food, it's because of hard work and my teammates,” Temwa Chawinga told SHE Scores Bangers. “It is my duty to score the goals because I cannot leave it for the goalkeeper or defender to do it. I’m a striker and that’s my job.”

Not only does the hot Kansas City climate provide a familiar feel for Chawinga, allowing her to hit the ground running, but her teammates’ efforts to ensure a smooth transition have been monumental.

“It's not been very difficult for me to settle in because of the way people have treated me. We have a good coach, good players, and nice staff that made it easy to settle in the league,” Chawinga says. “I’m very grateful. They have helped a lot in training and I am able to be who I am.”

Chawinga is not just about scoring goals and recording high-speed numbers. In addition to a 12-goal tally, she has produced six assists across 16 games so far. Still, Chawinga is impressing with far more than that.

Her intelligent hold-up play, unmatched work rate, physical strength, unselfishness, and ability to leave it on the pitch are some of the many golden qualities that have helped the Malawian player thrive at this level.

Yet to every question surrounding her diverse ability to be great at many things, Chawinga is full of humility crediting her teammates. Being a humble character is another feature to add to her long list of assets.

Proud of the attention she is bringing to Malawian women’s football, Chawinga hopes her historic achievements “open the door” for many young girls in Africa. She views her goalscoring highlight reels as an incentive for scouts in Europe and the NWSL to turn their heads to players from Southern Africa.

“I hope when clubs see me performing, they say, ‘she is from Malawi, maybe we need to look at players from there,’ and we start to see more names go to Europe.”

Becoming a professional soccer player was not something Chawinga, or her sister, current Lyon player, Tabitha, ever thought was possible. The two stars are the only current Malawian players, men or women, playing professionally outside of Africa, but it was far from easy for them to get here.

“When we [Tabitha & I ] started playing…my mom told us not to play and that soccer was not for girls,” Chawinga recalls.

As a youngster, Temwa’s days consisted of “going to school, going to work, and washing plates” for months, leaving little time for soccer. “My mum stopped Tabitha from playing, but she continued and I followed in her footsteps. When she would go out to play, I’d go with her. My mum just had to accept that.” Chawinga tells SHE Scores Bangers.

Only able to play with the boys in their village, the Chawinga sisters would travel over 400 kilometers from their home in the Rumphi district to Lilongwe, the capital city of Malawi, to play with a girls team. National team scouts would do most of their work in Lilongwe, and it was the try-out destination. Like many, NT representatives were taken aback by the sheer brilliance displayed by the Chawingas.

“They thought it was not possible for a family to have two good players,” laughs Chawinga. “We were so scared to play around the people that make up the national team. We then started believing in ourselves.”

Iconically, the Chawinga sisters would receive national team call-ups together in 2011, go on to share the pitch in Sweden playing for Kvarnsvedens IK, and later, become opponents in China.

In fact, when Temwa landed in Sweden, all she could think of was the reality of her name being featured in a league that nurtured the historical era of Marta. It was Tabitha who told her sister all about the Brazilian’s records in the Damallsvenskan. Tabitha led, Temwa followed, and she is forever grateful to have had her sister along the way.

“If I took the decision of what my parents said, I wouldn’t be playing soccer. But I left behind what they had to say and just continued playing, and now I’m here,” Chawinga says. “I’m happy to know my mum is very happy to see the way my sister and I are performing, and what we are doing outside of Malawi.”

Yet, in order to encourage more girls to get involved in sports in Malawi, Chawinga recognizes the importance of a change in mindset.

“Back home, a lot of people think that soccer is only for boys,” Chawinga says. “In Malawi, we need to start treating boys and girls the same way. Here in the USA, we see lots of boys and girls in the stadium, and that can be the same in Africa.

“Parents should allow their children to play soccer, explore themselves, and play in another country. Back home, we don’t give our children the chance to choose between school and soccer. I want to say to parents, let your children have the choice to play.”

Whilst the majority of Chawinga’s advice was directed to parents urging them to challenge societal values on girls playing soccer, she highlights two key skills that have made her successful despite the noise.

“Working hard and listening to coaches,”

Without her hard work, Chawinga does not think she would’ve left Malawi. And without listening to her coaching, the player leading the Golden Boot race wouldn’t have been able to perform this well with the Current so far.

“If we change mindsets… a lot of players will start to come out from Africa and go to other countries, like me and my sister.” Chawinga passionately expresses.

Barba Banda, Rachel Kundanji, Asisat Oshoala, and Temwa Chawinga’s arrivals to the NWSL have sparked more critical conversations about talent across Africa and the efforts required to showcase it.

These one-of-a-kind players, each with a unique journey to the top of the game, serve as role models for many. Despite their different paths, they all faced and overcame the obstacle of being pushed away from playing a sport due to the climate of mindsets that said so.

Today, Temwa Chawinga is changing how women’s football is received in Malawi with her work on the pitch, one touch after another.