When Alex Morgan and Megan Rapinoe played their first World Cup in 2011, Sophia Smith from Windsor, Colorado was only eleven years old. Twelve summers later, after several gleaming seasons in the North American NWSL, the Portland Thorns forward, under contract until 2025, stands as the image of a US team changer who helped redefine a generation and retire the era of yesterday’s star power.
Relating to
- Aitana’s time: I am doing my best
- Completion and precision, Red’s pending topic
- Ivana and Athenea: the next two opponents are enemies
His name as a potential revealer of the tournament appeared in all pools, and his World Cup debut could not have been more impactful. He led his team to a victory against Vietnam with a brace and an assist to the captain. Lindsey Horan added the third goal to elevate the profile across the globe.
“I was looking forward to the start of the tournament, I felt good on a professional level, so I stepped out ready to be myself,” he said after an outstanding World Cup debut.
PRAISE
Carl Lloyd stands as a 2015 World Cup star who retired two years ago and remains among the United States’ top all time goal scorers. The Thorns have long celebrated his impact on the sport. His career began after being selected in the draft, and his presence on the field is a reminder of the era that produced today’s stars. The weight of expectation from the press and fans is not lost on him, especially facing the noise that comes with such high visibility.
“He has shown the ability to score from multiple positions, but it is essential for him to manage the emotions and stay focused on the game. There is a golden opportunity to demonstrate globally what he has achieved, a true next step for his career.”
Following a brilliant debut, Morgan referred to her as a pivotal talent, acknowledging the early promise. Early praise did not stop there. Supporters spoke about limitless potential and the possibility of breaking records, noting that she is already among the top players at a young age and capable of more in the years ahead.
GENERATION CHANGE
Legends who scored in abundance over many years are remembered for the numbers they posted. Wambach poured in 184 goals between 2001 and 2015, Bath contributed 158 from 1987 to 2004, Lloyd tallied 134 between 2005 and 2021, Lily had 130 between 1987 and 2010, Akers reached 107 between 1985 and 2000, Milbrett had 100 from 1991 to 2005, Parlow added 75 between 1996 and 2004, Print captained the team mostly through injuries since 2003, and Smith has reached 121 since 2010 while the modern era’s newest star keeps rising. The time has come for a fresh wave in the United States.
If nothing goes wrong, Sophia Smith is expected to lead the next generation, carrying the promise to step into the role once filled by the legendary figures. Trinity Rodman and Alyssa Thompson are seen as a dynamic trio with the potential to drive the national team to new heights. This trio signals a hopeful era for US soccer, with a blend of resilience, pace, and creativity to sustain long-term success.