The Late Sub with Claire Watkins

The USWNT's biggest test yet ends in a 2-0 loss to Spain, and there are some BIG questions for Emma Hayes. Claire Watkins is joined by World Cup champion and three-time NWSL champion Jess McDonald to break down what went wrong, why the midfield struggled, and what this result means for the USWNT's preparations for the 2027 World Cup. From Lindsey Heaps and Lily Yohannes struggling to find their rhythm to the tactical decisions behind Trinity Rodman and Alyssa Thompson switching wings, Claire and Jess debate whether the USWNT's problems are about personnel, tactics, or simply growing pains against the...

The USWNT is gearing up for its biggest test yet against world No. 1 Spain, but injuries to Naomi Girma and Sam Coffey have left Emma Hayes with some major decisions to make. Claire breaks down her ideal starting XI, why Ashley Sanchez deserves to start alongside Trinity Rodman and Sophia Wilson, and how the USWNT can compete without two of its most important players. Plus, start Lily Yohannes over Lindsey Heaps, who should step up in Girma’s absence, and how the USWNT can disrupt Spain’s dominant midfield to pull off a statement win ahead of the 2027 World Cup...

Claire breaks down the surprise call-ups, the biggest snubs, Ashley Sanchez’s return to the national team, and why the USWNT worry meter is still ticking up at a few key positions. Plus, why Jaedyn Shaw and Ally Sentnor are headed to the U23s, how Mallory Swanson’s versatility could change her role with the USWNT, and why these two games against Spain might be the biggest test yet for Emma Hayes and this new-look player pool. This episode is presented by Ally Bank, member FDIC. Chapters 00:00 Introduction 04:30 Evelyn Shores 09:17 Trinity Byars 10:14 Pietra Tordin 11:31 Jordan Silkowitz 15:00 Players who EARN...

The USWNT roster announcement is just around the corner, and Ashley Sanchez is making it impossible for Emma Hayes to ignore her. Claire breaks down why Sanchez has earned another call-up, which NWSL stars deserve a shot against Spain, and whether Hayes needs to rethink her player pool ahead of the 2027 World Cup. Plus, Jaedyn Shaw and Croix Bethune continue to make their cases, Jordynn Dudley is turning heads in her rookie season, and some familiar USWNT names could be playing their way out of the picture. Who deserves a spot, and who might be running out of time? ...

The NWSL coaching carousel is in full swing, and Vlatko Andonovski’s exit from the Kansas City Current might be the most confusing move yet. Claire breaks down why KC moved on after so much recent success, what the players’ reactions say about the decision, and whether all of this change could come back to haunt them in the playoff race. Plus, Seb Hines is out in Orlando, Houston and Chicago are making changes of their own, and Utah might be proving that sometimes the smartest move is simply sticking with the plan. This episode is presented by Ally Bank...

The NWSL Shield race looks like it’s down to two teams, Gotham and the Washington Spirit. While they are both battling at the top of the table, Claire takes this week to look at some of their differences and how two teams so similar couldn’t be MORE different. This episode is presented by Ally Bank, member FDIC Chapters 00:00 Introduction 02:57 Washing & Gotham Leading Shield Contenders 04:57 The Case for Washington Spirit 13:42 The Case for Gotham FC 18:02 Outstanding Asset 22:48 No Love for Ballon d’Or Just Women’s Sports is the leading digital media platform dedicated exclusively to women’s sports. In...

Claire breaks down everything USWNT fans need to know as the WSL looks to kick off. Some of the world’s best stars have made their way to England! Here’s everything you need to know to become a WSL fan ahead of the World Cup. This episode is presented by Ally Bank, member FDIC Chapters 00:00 Introduction 02:59 A Guide to the WSL 08:40 USWNT Stars in the WSL 14:14 NWSL Money Moves 17:09 London City Lionesses 19:21 Names to Know Before the World Cup Just Women’s Sports is the leading digital media platform dedicated exclusively to women’s sports. In a world where wo...

Ashley Sanchez is having an NWSL season to remember. After falling out of the USWNT, Sanchez is making a case that she can't be ignored. Claire takes this week to put the spotlight on Sanchez and why Emma Hayes should call her up for the next camp.

This episode is presented by Ally Bank, member FDIC

Chapters

00:00 Introduction

01:42 Ashley Sanchez’s MONSTER Season

06:57 The Sanchez Story

09:31 Why Can’t She Make the Emma Hayes Roster?

11:30 Complete Courage Overhaul

14...

Claire takes this week takes the time to do a deep dive into the troubles in Louisville. Racing has a fan attendance problem, but is ownership making fans the scape goat for their errors? Bev Yanez has the team on a 4 game winning streak, is there still time to right the ship? This episode is presented by Ally Bank, member FDIC Chapters 00:00 Introduction 01:43 Going Deep on Louisville 04:44 What’s going Right in Louisville 08:13 Changing their Shape 11:18 Outstanding Asset 15:01 Now What’s Wrong for Racing 20:20 Relocation on the Horizon? Just Women’s Sports is the leading digital media platform dedicated exclus...

Claire takes this week to zoom out on the NWSL and see how five teams are trending. With Olivia Moultrie out for the season, an already struggling Portland Thorns team could be on a skid. Washington is feeling the burn out from a packed schedule. Seattle is looking like the Reign of old, and Gotham sits atop the table with the league’s best defense.

This episode is presented by Ally Bank, member FDIC

Chapters

00:00 Introduction

04:39 Portland Fading FAST

06:34 Spend & Save

10:18 Wa...

Claire digs into all the action at W AFCON. With a stacked group C and a tournament filled with some of the BEST NWSL talent, could one of these nations be the surprise of next year’s World Cup? This episode is presented by Ally Bank, member FDIC Chapters 00:00 Introduction 05:38 Best Players in the World? 09:10 STACKED Group C 15:35 Closing in on the Semis 20:13 Goal of the Tournament Just Women’s Sports is the leading digital media platform dedicated exclusively to women’s sports. In a world where women’s sports have been historically underfunded and under-promoted, Just Women’s Sports exi...

With Emily Sonnett down with an undisclosed knee injury, Claire takes this moment to dive into the injury window. How can Gotham keep up with a back line that's looking thinner by the moment? What other teams are plagued by injury? And most importantly, what World Cup implications do injuries have from here on out?

This episode is presented by Ally Bank, member FDIC

Chapters

00:00 Introduction

00:49 NWSL Injuries & International Implications

06:52 Emily Sonnett Stretchered Off

11:09 Esther Leaves Gotham

15:10 San Diego...

Ali Riley joins a special edition of the Late Sub to help Claire break down the biggest questions for the USWNT roster as we look WAAAAAAAAAAAY too far ahead to make some BOLD statements the potential World Cup roster. This episode is presented by Ally Bank, member FDIC Chapters 00:00 Introduction 01:50 Ali Riley Joins the Show 02:34 Initial Roster Thoughts 08:18 Forwards 22:17 Midfielders 29:19 Defenders 35:16 Goalkeepers Just Women’s Sports is the leading digital media platform dedicated exclusively to women’s sports. In a world where women’s sports have been historically underfunded and under-promoted, Just Women’s Sports exists to shine a light on...

This week, Claire breaks down some of the biggest moves by Michelle Kang and she builds out her soccer empire across women’s soccer. Kang’s most recent signings are bringing the London City Lionesses looking like a European powerhouse, and Kang has shown her commitment to NWSL by making the same hard stances for the Washington Spirit, particularly resigning Trinity Rodman. This episode is presented by Ally Bank, member FDIC Chapters 00:00 Introduction 01:30 Alexia Putellas Signs with London City 06:00 Why Players Aren’t Going to the NWSL 10:52 Kang’s Soccer Empire 15:42 Building a Superteam 21:12 Should NWSL Fans Worry? Just Women’s...

This week Claire digs into the teams sitting at the top of the NWSL table as the shield race heats up. Trinity Rodman is better than ever as Washington Spirit ride a win streak. Sophia Smith and Portland are cruising. KC is always in the mix with Temwa Chawinga. And how much can we make of Utah’s loss to Chicago. This episode is presented by Ally Bank, member FDIC Chapters 00:00 Introduction 02:59 Trinity Rodman’s Stoppage Time WINNER 07:31 San Diego Still Leading the Table 14:02 Portland Thorns are CRUISING 17:59 Kansas City Lurking 22:50 Utah’s Wacky Loss Just Women’s Sports is the l...

This week Claire gets into all the biggest questions as the NWSL comes back from a very long break. How quickly can Sam Kerr make an impact with Gotham? Can Lindsey Heaps get Denver Summit into the playoff picture? Is MVP Barbara Banda’s to LOSE? Can Utah continue their dream run? And what does anyone make of Angel City after all their changes? Plus could there be a HUGE sleeper in the NWSL MVP conversation? You won’t believe it! This episode is presented by Ally Bank, member FDIC Chapters 00:00 Introduction 02:04 Is Sam Kerr the Missing Piece for Goth...

This week Claire digs into all the NWSL transfer window CHAOS, and grades each move! Sam Kerr reportedly ready to sign with Gotham, Kennedy Fuller to Bay, Ally Sentnor to Angel City, and ACFC Head Coach Alex Straus is OUT. This episode is presented by Ally Bank, member FDIC Chapters 00:00 Introduction 01:49 Sam Kerr to Gotham 03:51 How Does Kerr Fit? 09:37 Money Moves and Grading the Kerr Signing 13:20 Grading Reale to Boston 16:43 Angel City’s BIG Week 17:22 Grading Fuller to Bay 18:57 Straus Fired 20:41 Grading Sentnor to ACFC 23:10 KC Extend Chawinga Just Women’s Sports is the leading digital media platform dedicated excl...

After a few illuminating USWNT matches against Brazil, Claire takes her first stab at predicting the USWNT 2027 World Cup roster.The one questions that looms large, can Catarina Macario get healthy in time to snag a spot on the forward?This episode is presented by Ally Bank, Member FDIC.Challenge Cup Trivia - https://www.eventbrite.com/e/just-womens-sports-trivia-night-presented-by-ally-tickets-1987615192546?aff=youtubeTLSChapters00:00 Introduction01:30 Predicting the World Cup Roster04:47 The Keepers08:42 Center Backs11:20 Outside Backs15:25 Midfielders20:17 Forwards Just Women’s Sports is the leading digital media platform dedicated exclusively to women’s sports. In a world where women’s sports have been h...

Claire breaks down the aftermath of a CHAOTIC couple of friendlies between the USWNT and Brazil. Games that saw more cards than a round of poker.

Plus we’ll take a look at the roster and what these games tell us about who’s ready for the World Cup in 2027.

This episode is presented by Ally Bank, Member FDIC.

Challenge Cup Trivia - https://www.eventbrite.com/e/just-womens-sports-trivia-night-presented-by-ally-tickets-1987615192546?aff=youtubeTLS

Chapters

00:00 Introduction

01:49 Tense Atmosphere

As the NWSL heads into the June break, Claire takes a look at some of the biggest surprises around the league. Utah is looking legit, Gotham’s low margin soccer keeps the Bats winning, Houston & Angel City are in free fall.

Plus we take a look at the rookie landscape and frontrunners for this season’s MVP are some familiar names.

This episode is presented by Ally Bank, Member FDIC.

Challenge Cup Trivia - https://www.eventbrite.com/e/just-womens-sports-trivia-night-presented-by-ally-tickets-1987615192546?aff=youtubeTLS

Chapters

00:00 Intr...

Emma Hayes dropped a fresh USWNT roster ahead of the team’s friendlies against Brazil. Claire breaks down every position, including some surprises and snubs.

Plus why can’t Ashley Sanchez earn a call up despite an MVP caliber NWSL season?

This episode is presented by Ally Bank, Member FDIC.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction

02:30 USWNT Injured Players

04:13 Triple Espresso is BACK

06:55 Forwards

08:21 Midfielders

10:25 Midfield Surprises

11:14 Spend & Save: Riley Jackson

14:59 Snub: Ashley Sanchez?

20:21 Center Backs

This week Claire takes a deep dive into the return of Chicago’s Mallory Swanson. The evolution of her game, how much does being on a struggling Chicago team impact her chances for the USWNT roster, and what’s Chicago’s SMART PLAY for getting her back to full form?

This episode is presented by Ally Bank, member FDIC

Chapters

00:00 Introduction

01:46 Returning from Pregnancy

04:29 The Evolution of Mal Swanson

06:43 Differences Between Mal & Sophia

08:26 USWNT Players on BAD Teams

11:2...

Claire breaks down Emma Hayes's tour across the NWSL. Who she saw exceed expectations, who shrunk under the spotlight, and who she didn't bother to see at all. With an eye toward 2027, Emma Hayes has her sights on the USWNT pool of NWSL talent.

This episode is presented by Ally Bank, member FDIC

Chapters

00:00 Introduction

02:38 Who Did Emma Hayes Watch?

04:55 Who Emma SKIPPED

07:13 Beyond 2027

10:20 Who IMPRESSED

15:47 Who DISAPPOINTED

19:01 Emma Hayes Spend & Save

<...

Claire breaks down the NWSL MVP race with Orlando's Barbra Banda leading the way. If the race ended today, she's taking it. A WILD golden boot race with Ashley Sanchez, Olivia Moultrie keeping Portland at the top of the table, and Rose Lavelle Leading Gotham.

Plus NWSL Rookie of the Year watch!

This episode is presented by Ally Bank, member FDIC

Chapters

00:00 Introduction

04:14 Barbra Banda

06:05 Olivia Moultrie

07:58 Rose Lavelle

09:52 Ashley Sanchez

12:25 Trinity...

In this week's episode of The Late Sub Claire breaks down the difficulties of being an expansion team, how Summit is headed in the right direction and why Lindsey Heaps can get them over the hump. Plus Columbus's $205 Million NWSL expansion team. Just Women’s Sports is the leading digital media platform dedicated exclusively to women’s sports. In a world where women’s sports have been historically underfunded and under-promoted, Just Women’s Sports exists to shine a light on all the stories, athletes and moments that define and fuel the space. Through original podcasts, premium video programming, social m...

Presented by Ally Bank, Member FDIC Claire dives into the evolution of Trinity Rodman's game, and the growing pains that come along with it. The million dollar question is will she find her form for the USWNT and Spirit sooner than later? Just Women’s Sports is the leading digital media platform dedicated exclusively to women’s sports. In a world where women’s sports have been historically underfunded and under-promoted, Just Women’s Sports exists to shine a light on all the stories, athletes and moments that define and fuel the space. Through original podcasts, premium video programming, social m...

Just Women’s Sports is the leading digital media platform dedicated exclusively to women’s sports. In a world where women’s sports have been historically underfunded and under-promoted, Just Women’s Sports exists to shine a light on all the stories, athletes and moments that define and fuel the space. Through original podcasts, premium video programming, social media, editorial content, a newsletter, and exclusive merchandise and live events, Just Women’s Sports is committed to making it both easy and fun to be a women’s sports fan. Add us on: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/justwomenssports/ Twitter: https://twit...

Two of the biggest surprises this season have been Gotham & Houston. One has shocked the NWSL by soaring up the table, while the bats are underperforming as reigning champs. Just Women’s Sports is the leading digital media platform dedicated exclusively to women’s sports. In a world where women’s sports have been historically underfunded and under-promoted, Just Women’s Sports exists to shine a light on all the stories, athletes and moments that define and fuel the space. Through original podcasts, premium video programming, social media, editorial content, a newsletter, and exclusive merchandise and live events, Just Women’s...

In this weeks episode, Claire breaks down every position group in the USWNT roster release for their 3 game friendly matchup against Japan. Sophia Wilson and Tierna Davidson make their returns. Can Olivia Moultrie take her success with the Thorns to the National Team in a crowded midfield. Plus finding depth at outside back. Subscribe to The Late Sub to never miss an episode. Follow Claire on Twitter/X (@scoutripley) and sign up for the Just Women’s Sports newsletter at justwomenssports.com/newsletter/ Chapters: 00:00 Intro 04:40 Forwards 09:11 Midfielders 14:38 Center Backs 17:35 Outside Backs 20:27 Goalkeepers Just Women’s Sports is the leading digi...

In this weeks episode, Claire breaks down three of the NWSL weekend’s trends as the chaos begins in earnest, including red cards galore, talent evaluation, and Angel City’s deepest roster yet.

In this weeks episode, Claire breaks down the big picture of Catarina Macario’s impending debut in the NWSL, in the context of last years USWNT exodus turning into a more balanced season upon which a lot of US decisions will be made about the rising stars of the NWSL. 

The NWSL season has arrived and we've got everything you need to know on this week’s episode of The Late Sub. Who’s improved, what can fans expect on the field, and who's ultimately competing for a title in 2026.

In this week's episode, Claire takes a look at the USWNT's first two SheBelieves Cup games, crediting the team's control, ability to turn the field, and roster integration, while still asking a few questions about attacking setup and best personnel in key areas.

In this week’s episode, Claire checks in on how USWNT players have been faring in Europe, as they prepare to rejoin the U.S. prior to this weekend’s SheBelieves Cup. She talks instant success, and the few question marks that still exist as the USWNT’s club balance leans more European than ever.

In today’s episode, Claire takes a deeper look at the upcoming USWNT SheBelieves Cup roster: who's in, who's out, with notes from Emma Hayes’s press conference following the squad announcement.

In this week’s episode, Claire breaks downs the ins and outs of NWSL media day, the return of Triple Espresso, some key injury updates, and some interesting notes from chatting with the NWSL’s best and brightest prior to preseason kicking off.

In today's episode, Claire reflects on the inaugural FIFA Women's Champions Cup: what Arsenal's victory means, some of the logistical hiccups shaping the tournament, and how FIFA can use the first iteration of the competition to improve international club competitions — but only if they're invested in the product.

In this week's episode, Claire takes a big picture look at the USWNT's January camp in its entirety after two dominant wins against Paraguay and Chile - the winners, the lost opportunities, what she thinks will actually be carried by the team into the future and what might just be a showcase of what US soccer can show fans right now.

In today's episode, Claire gives her immediate takeaways from the USWNT's 6-0 win over Paraguay. New leadership structures, a wealth of versatility, and a few exciting debuts and returns to set the tone for the team's World Cup qualifying year.

In this week’s episode, Claire digs into the USWNT’s January camp roster, pointing out one player from each positional line that she’d like to see get serious time on the pitch in the team’s two upcoming friendlies. She talks roster health, positional fits, and the key element of timing as players establish themselves as consistent options at the international level.