USWNT captain Becky Sauerbrunn to miss FIFA WWC with foot injury
The United States women’s national team is facing another setback as they prepare for the 2023 World Cup. USWNT captain Becky Sauerbrunn, and centre back, will not be able to participate in the tournament in Australia and New Zealand due to a foot injury she suffered in April. Sauerbrunn expressed her disappointment in a statement on Twitter, describing herself as “heartbroken.” Discover USWNT captain Becky Sauerbrunn to miss FIFA WWC with foot injury.
Sauerbrunn’s absence will be a significant loss for the USWNT. She is one of the team’s most experienced players and a crucial defensive presence. With 207 caps, she holds the record for the most appearances among active players and has been part of the team’s success in the previous three World Cups. This includes winning titles in 2015 and 2019. She also contributed to the team’s gold medal victory in 2012.
In Sauerbrunn’s absence, the USWNT has several veteran options to consider as potential captains. Alex Morgan, Megan Rapinoe, and Kelley O’Hara all have over a decade of national team experience and are to be part of the World Cup roster. Morgan is the likely candidate to take on the role of captain as she is to be a starter. The team’s defensive line will likely feature Alana Cook and Naomi Girma at centre back. They will be supported by fullbacks Emily Fox and Crystal Dunn.
Unfortunately, Sauerbrunn is not the only player out before the World Cup. The team has already lost Mallory Swanson and Catarina Macario, two-star forwards, due to injuries. However, the USWNT has a deep pool of talent in the forward position with players like Morgan, Sophia Smith, Trinity Rodman, and Lynn Williams still available and capable of making an impact.
Midfielder Sam Mewis has also been sidelined since 2021 with a knee injury and will not be able to participate in the World Cup. Additionally, Rose Lavelle, another midfielder. Lavelle has been dealing with an injury since April. Her availability for the tournament remains uncertain as the start date approaches on July 20.
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