In 52 days the FIFA Women’s World Cup promises to host the most competitive tournament in history.  With an expanded pool of 24 countries represented from a previous 16, the U.S Women’s National Soccer Team is no longer the clear favorite.

Fortunately, after a series of rough patches the team seems to be hitting their stride. Most recently the team handedly defeated New Zealand 4-0. U.S Head Coach, Jillian Ellis released the finalized, 23-player roster on Tuesday afternoon, which is arguably the last major step ahead of group D competition.

Crystal Dunn and Rachel Van Hollebeke were both cut from the U.S team on Tuesday. This decision is not surprising as neither player has seen significant minutes in competitions. Also, the consistency and effectiveness of the defensive line in recent friendlies has made a strong case for itself, posting an impressive three goals allowed in the past seven international matches.

Why were these two players cut from the roster? Since the 2012 Olympics the outside back position has seen multiple players rotated in and out of the starting XI, one of which was Dunn.  And with the return of U.S Soccer Veteran, Lori Chalupny, it was clear Ellis valued her experience. As a result, Dunn started to see more time on the bench. When Dunn made the 20-player 2014 CONCACAF Qualifying roster back in October she had to withdraw her spot due to a mild MCL sprain. Julie Johnston replaced her on the roster.

The U.S roster is jam packed with experienced veterans including Shannon Boxx and Christie Rampone who will be playing in their fourth FIFA World Cup tournament. Ellis has always shown a preference for veterans which is why Van Hollebeke’s cut from the team was not as expected.

U.S veteran, Van Hollebeke saw her starting spot slipping away as youngster Johnston joined the mix. In an already fierce battle for the coveted two center-back positions, Van Hollebeke struggled to earn minutes and was left out on the CONCACAF Qualifying roster. Had it not been for Johnston stepping up in recent competitions, Van Hollebeke’s story might be a different one.

Now since Ellis took over in May of 2014 the training camp pools were for the most part consistent, and rightly so.  Experimenting with new players should happen in the first two years after a World Cup, not one year out from the next.

Some may remember former U.S Coach, Tom Sermanni who brought new faces into the mix, which led to a poor performance at the Algarve Cup in 2014 and ultimately cost him his job.  It is difficult to simultaneously develop a team and be successful, which is one area that needs to be addressed post-World Cup.

With all 23-players locked in, the focus now turns to the May 10 competition against the Republic of Ireland.

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About the author
Emily Helle
Total soccer junkie. Full-time NCAA Division III-athlete studying exercise and neuroscience. U.S Women National Soccer Team specialist.