The US Women's National Team is set to face off against Australia on Wednesday in their final group stage match of the 2024 Paris Olympics. Despite already securing a place in the quarterfinals, the Americans are looking to solidify their position as the top team in Group B and continue their quest for Olympic gold. However, their ambitions will be hampered by the absence of one of their key players, defender Tierna Davidson.
Davidson has been sidelined with a knee contusion sustained during the USWNT's resounding 4-1 victory against Germany last Sunday. The 25-year-old Gotham FC standout suffered the injury following a collision with German player Jule Brand in the 44th minute. Although she was able to walk off the field, Davidson was unable to return to the game.
Manager Emma Hayes has confirmed Davidson's absence, stating that the knee-on-knee impact caused swelling that would prevent her from playing in the Australia match. Despite being present at Tuesday's training session, Davidson was limited to warm-up exercises and did not participate in team drills.
Davidson's absence is a significant blow to the USWNT's defensive strategy. The team has been incredibly strong defensively, conceding just one goal in their first two matches and maintaining clean sheets in their four pre-Olympic friendlies. Davidson has been instrumental in this success, playing a crucial role in the USWNT's 2019 World Cup triumph as the youngest player on the squad. She has garnered 62 international caps for the USWNT, accumulating three goals and seven assists during her time with the team.
With Davidson unavailable, the USWNT will be relying on Emily Sonnett to fill the void in the starting lineup. Sonnett was called up to the active roster following Davidson's injury, replacing her on the 18-player team. The team has only one other defensive alternate, Emily Sams, at their disposal.
While Davidson's absence will be felt on the pitch, her recovery remains the priority. The USWNT will be hoping for a quick and full recovery for their crucial defender as they progress towards the knockout stages of the 2024 Paris Olympics.
