United States women’s national team coach Emma Hayes is gearing up for a formidable challenge as her team prepares to face Zambia in their Olympic opener. The much-anticipated match is set for next Thursday at Nice Stadium in Nice, France.
In an interview with former US national team star Sam Mewis on The Women’s Game, Hayes praised Zambia’s Barbra Banda, whom she described as possibly the best striker in the world at the moment. Banda has been in scintillating form, scoring 12 goals in as many games in the National Women’s Super League, and is currently tied for the Golden Boot.
“Zambia, on form, probably have the best striker in the world right now, banging in the goals,” Hayes stated.
She further emphasized the challenge posed by Zambia’s style of play, noting that their ability to transition quickly from defense to attack is unmatched. “With Zambia, you have a team that will play less progressive passes, i.e., control the game in a certain way. But if you play man for man all over the pitch against them, it’s going to be a difficult game,” Hayes warned.
Hayes highlighted the importance of maintaining defensive structure and strategic play, particularly in dealing with Zambia’s fast-paced transitions. “Their ability to transition is better than any team I’ve seen in world football,” she said. “So for us, structure becomes essential. That becomes the bedrock—what we do in possession and how we’re thinking about what happens when there is a turnover to be able to get those things right.”
Following their clash with the US, Zambia will face Australia on July 28th and conclude their group stage campaign against Germany on July 31st.
