The USWNT has a long history of having superstar strikers. From Mia Hamm to Alex Morgan, there has been no shortage of excellence at the striker position for the Americans. Who could be the next to step into that role? Here, we will break down five prospective strikers who could emerge as greatness for the USWNT.
Riley Tiernan (Angel City FC)
Tiernan has had an excellent rookie season thus far for ACFC. She has demonstrated not only amazing finishing ability but also toughness to secure loose balls. In ten matches, she has already recorded seven goals. Currently, she is just behind Barbra Banda and Temwa Chawinga in the Golden Boot race. Emma Hayes selecting Tiernan for the U-23 squad’s trip to Germany only makes sense. Tiernan’s development over the next few years will be vital and may add another lethal piece to the USWNT’s makeup.
Mia Fishel (Chelsea FC)
Although having represented the senior squad occasionally, Fishel’s impact on the USWNT has only scratched the surface. She has been a magnificent forward for the youth teams, and her game is easily transferable to the senior level. After being out due to an ACL injury, Fishel recently helped Chelsea win the FA Cup and the WSL Championship. It is great to see Fishel gain her groove back on the field. To see her represent the senior team in the near future should be a surprise to nobody. Along with Tiernan, she will be with the U-23 squad in Germany.
Reilyn Turner (Portland Thorns FC)
After an incredible collegiate tenure at UCLA and an electric rookie season with Racing Louisville, Turner has shown out for the Thorns this season. Her progress from her first season to now illustrates the determination and work ethic Turner has. There seems to be no sign of her slowing down, and Hayes’ decision to list her on the U-23 roster is sensible. Turner is speedy, technical, and knows how to put the ball in the back of the net. Her development will be exciting to witness, and her emergence to the USWNT is more likely to occur than not.
Makenna Morris (Washington Spirit)
Throughout her soccer career, Morris has consistently demonstrated versatility and skill. As a Clemson Tiger, she started in all but three of her 80 appearances. She has made a great impact on Spirit since the moment she stepped on the field for them. From her game-winning goal in her first career start to her assist to Hal Hershfelt’s equalizer against Gotham FC, Morris has proven to the Spirit organization that she is impactful and electric. More international play will surely help her development, which is likely the thinking Hayes had when adding Morris to the U-23 roster.
Jameese Joseph (Chicago Stars)
Not only is finishing a skill all strikers need to possess, but being able to assist other teammates is also another important skill that prominent strikers should develop. Joseph has reflected on having both finishing and assist-making under her belt of skills. So far this season, Joseph has recorded one goal and two assists for the Stars. Hayes included Joseph in the Futures Camp earlier this year and has included Joseph in the U-23 roster for the two games in Germany. Similar to Morris, Joseph requires more international play to develop and be ready for the senior squad. Her trip to Germany is just the start.
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