The Architecture of Evolution: Gotham FC, WAFCON's Shift, and Lily Yohannes

Early morning on a Manhattan sidewalk, a shooting caught on surveillance video. It was an assassination style killing, and everybody saw it. A new podcast series from ABC Audio in 2020 goes inside this captivating case. I'm ABC News legal analyst Brian Buckmeyer. Listen to burden of proof Luigi Mangione, wherever you get your podcasts. Welcome to my humble abode here on football W. I stretched my arms out because nobody is in studio with me. Where is Jeff Kassouf? Where is Ali Krieger? Well, at least I can tell you guys where Ali Krieger is. Don't worry, she's still hanging out with me. Today, Jeff Kassouf is having a well-deserved vacation, but we have a lot to break down here. Get comfortable Kriegs. Get comfortable Kriegs. Listen to your lovely boys. Oh, thanks. So happy to see you. So happy that this is a football W Tuesday because we have a lot to break down. It'll be an alley squared show. You're just in a little bit alley. Riley breaks down all things, Angel City, and will maybe compare some of the players to Disney princesses. I don't know. That's called the T's. Lily Elhan answered too, and a very interesting conversation with our Alexis and Nunez. But let's get to some NWSL action that we saw this week. I knew you saw up close in personal alley with Gotham FC versus San Diego 16th minute. Jaden Shaw crossing it in and grew a right in so close yet so far away, Ali. Yes, that I was front rowing center watching this game. And exactly in that moment, I won't forget. We all thought it was going in the back of the net. Brilliant gurus and awesome. And on the other end here, San Diego, one of their many chances actually in this first half. Unfortunately, misses. Well done, defensively there, but Godfrey. I mean, what an amazing chance right at the beginning of the game. Yeah, that was in the 19th minute, 44th minute. It is, of course, Jordan Dudley again this time and assist. Finding Jaden Shaw and what a goal from Shaw, Ali. Yes, Kevin here and I were sitting right next to each other. We jumped out of our scenes. So excited. This was actually a reminder of the goal that she scored in the semi-final against Orlando. Very similar wraps it around the defenders. Goldkeeper couldn't really see and tucks it in the far side of the net. Well done for the 1-0 win. Yeah, that's actually very true, very similar. Although it was actually in play here and it wasn't a set piece like it was there, but still so cheeky, so great there from Jaden Shaw and what we've seen from Gotham FC. Ali obviously being in person and watching it is completely different than seeing it on television. So what did you notice the most about this Gotham team that was able to just get that 1-0 win? Yeah, I obviously think the numbers aren't showing how good they have been. So that's been a bit discouraging on paper. But when you look at these games, they're winning. And they're able to get the 3 points, especially on the road, which has been key in them staying on top of the table. But I think Gotham obviously are better than their record suggests. And they're still one of the hardest teams in the league to beat. I think defensively they've done well despite the fact that Sonna unfortunately got her injury. And then obviously Esther leaving and then Sam Kerr stepping in into the number 9. She's been really good and an immediate impact for them. I think with that squad rotation that it's made it a little bit difficult to build any type of consistency. You would think at the beginning of the season they're all fighting for an opportunity to be in the squad every single game. And now they're trying to find players to fill in those holes because of the recent injuries and absences that players have had. So for me the talent and the ceiling are still there. And that's why they are at the top of the table. They still have the best players I think in the league. And that's just because I'm a club ambassador in a former Gotham player. But I truly believe these players are incredible. Rosalvella has had a tremendous season so far. And as long as she's spitting out these, she's been brilliant. But the difference is that final product. They're able to complete games. They're able to score goals. They're able to take points away. And they're getting into good areas and controlling those games and the stretches of games I think, which has been the difference of any other team within the league. But they haven't consistently turned those moments into more goals that they should have and then the results. So I do think there's a lot more that we're going to expect from them. But with these injuries and absences of some of the players, it might be difficult towards the end of the season, which becomes most important. Yeah, let's talk about that then. Because we know that we're over halfway done with the season. We know this team is waiting on Juan Carlos Amoroso, obviously. On maternity leave to come back here just a few weeks here to go. You talked about all the changes too with the injuries. Esa de González leaving. And it seems like when the pillars leave other pillars are starting to step in here for this Gotham team. But with what you've seen from this team here lately, Ali, and how you're saying the numbers don't really reflect what we're actually seeing from them. How sustainable is this not only for the rest of the season, but focusing also on making a deep playoff run? Well, I think everyone now because of Sonnet's injury and because Esa had departed. But fortunately, Sam Kerr has come in. I mean, what a dream to have her in the number nine to be able to finish chances. You'll be able to have that experience and leadership in the front six. You're not really losing too much. You obviously can't compare and you'll never be able to replace two players like Esa or Sonnet. But other players have to step up. Everyone has to raise their level in order for this consistency to stay. And in order for them to finish out the season where they want to be. I do think they're still a team. Just like I said at the very beginning of the year, they can be the shield winner. I still think that is a possibility. But everyone has to take care of themselves. And everyone has to raise the level around them in order to be able to, you know, complete the task at hand, which is one game at a time. And then, you know, the end of the season is when it's most demanding. But this is the part of the season where you start to see teams either thrive in, you know, understanding their roles, their expectations, their responsibilities, and making sure that they take care of themselves because it is a long season. And this is the part of the season where some teams drop off. And some teams continue to carry that torch into the final parts of, you know, playoffs. Yeah, getting into the nitty-gritty part here of the season. But it says a lot about Gotham's locker room and how they've been able to still get these results. Not having to obviously say, hey, everybody needs to step up and just doing it naturally as well. Let's talk about another team who has been able to actually stay still consistent. North Carolina courage, Washington spirit, speaking of consistency. I mean, what's going on with Ashley Sanchez? What a wild finish, Ali. I mean, she's been incredible. I think that one of the reasons why North Carolina is even in the position that they're in, especially, you know, being traded from Washington to North Carolina, her second season there. I think that felt a little bit extra motivating for her to complete that goal. But she's been wonderful. And obviously here, you see the second goal in. I think that was called off sides and once, you know, the referees had taken a look at the bar. But North Carolina was putting Washington on their heels right at the beginning of this game. Yeah, a great goal there from Evelyn E.J.A. She steps up here and finds the first time finished three mill for North Carolina. Yes, in what an amazing start. And these two have been incredible. And why, you know, North Carolina has been playing with that consistency in the front line that they have. On the other end, you see Triri Rahman here able to get this goal back after the third goal from North Carolina. So it was three to one, but brilliant little cut inside the air. She does what she does best in between those two defenders. Slight little, you know, opportunity to score a goal and she puts it in the back of the net. Yeah, truly impressive stuff here. Washington clawing their way back. So if you haven't thought of air for the three, two. And Washington was making this one very exciting, Ali. Yeah, I mean, this was such an incredible game. Concord has been really good for Washington as well and was able to score a goal. And then here, Bernal, coming in at the very end, 91st minute was able to continue with this rebound and unbelievable scenes. There are three three. Yeah, absolutely. North Carolina said we didn't put all that hard work in for nothing. Here in the 96 minute practically in the last seconds, it's Natalie Jacobs too for that one. A 4-3 win here for North Carolina courage and such impressive stuff that we've seen from this team. And we didn't really expect much after a disappointing season. And this last time around, Ali, so what's been the best part for you, at least from this North Carolina side before obviously we dive into Washington spirit? Well, I mean, I think honestly, Ashley Sanchez, this is Ashley Sanchez that we've all been wanting to see again, right? She's just so influential and so impactful in the front line. She's been scored goal, she's been consistent, she's been wanting to get on the boss, she's been creating opportunities, all the good things that we always talk about. But she's been actually being able to finish those chances and also EJ. I mean, that relationship that they're building, that connection that they have, she's been so influential in such a positive way from North Carolina. They're set up, they have an identity, they have an idea from start to finish, and they've been excellent so far in these last few weeks, which is why they're in contention for an amazing playoffs. So it's wonderful to see and I think both of those two players, but Sanchez has really taken a team on our shoulders and that's why you see how good they have been recently. Yeah, absolutely, a three game winning streak after getting spooked there by spirit and as we're getting into the Halloween spirit. But let's talk about Washington spirit a little bit, because we know that the dip has been noticeable here in the last few games. I mean, let's talk about all of their players right now, obviously representing their countries there at the Women's Africa Cup of Nations, at the Wafcon, Zebra Abiodun, Giff Monday, Rosemond Kwasi, Melissa Bethi, and Monique Gawk here as well. Especially players like Giff Monday and Rosemond Kwasi, Ali, who really just step up, Giff Monday especially, right? And the last few minutes when they most need her is when she shows up. So how much are you contributing this recent dip to having them miss all these players, obviously, in this great tournament? Yeah, you make a great point. Wafcon has definitely played a small part, because you lose your important players. You lose your impact players, especially your attacking players, who really make a difference in games, and they can create something out of nothing. And so it affects your chemistry. It affects the chance to create goalscoring opportunities in the way you want to play. So it disrupts it a bit, but every top club has to navigate those international windows, whether that be Wafcon or whether that be any other type of tournament that even the U.S. has hosted in the past. For example, like as she believes are a mid-summer tournament. So the bigger question I think now is for Washington, is whether they've become too dependent on specific individual brilliance. So I think when their stars aren't available, for example, at this moment with Wafcon, and players away for representing their countries in that tournament, or they are producing something special, can they collectively come together and have that identity that still can carry them through until the end of the season? So a lot of times we speak about this at the very beginning of the year. What teams have depth in order to have a complete season and be able to make that playoff push in the very end? Yeah, absolutely. An important time to bring in Ashley Hatch as well. So that's good news for Washington, but still a lot of season ahead of them, as well as I'm sure they look forward to having these very talented players back officially on their roster for the end of the season. But let's get into now what we saw between Denver and Utah as well. I mean, things can change really quickly. Last week we were impressed with Utah, and they were impressing at least in the first few minutes, 23rd minute. It's Abby Smith there to make the save shutting down CC Delser. What a great play. Yeah, I definitely think Abby Smith made the difference here, especially for Denver and being able to complete this performance. She does so well in this decision-making. The timing was great, so well done by her for not able to create that goal. And what a goal for Yasmin Ryan. It's one nail summit, Ali. Yeah, she's been really, really motivating to watch. As soon as she made that move from Houston, I think just that confidence that she has, her goal scoring technique and ability. She always is somebody who Denver wants to have on the ball to create chances like that. 89th minute, though. Utah responding with quite a shot from Tatum Alazzo. Yeah, and they were right back in this game. They tied it up one, one beautiful ball across, slight low flick there, but well done to bring it down that first touch and then volley in the back of the net. Yeah, and this free kick from Sanis too is just so impressive. I think it's going to be great for Denver. Winds it to one with this great strike and still climbing up the table. There were so many teams with 23 points, by the way. This weekend, so the table moves a lot, and it moves really fast to and often. So let's talk about Utah Royals. Ali, like I said, last week we were really impressed with them. This week, are you sounding the alarm? Are we pumping the brakes on Utah? Or are we kind of giving them a little chance here? Yeah, I think between giving them a little chance and pumping the brakes for now. I think they've obviously proven why they're where they are on the table and why they've had success in recent games. Unfortunately, this game just didn't work out, especially on the road. It's so difficult to get points on the road. And for Denver to come back, Sanis has been brilliant. Being able to score penalty kicks and getting points on the board for Denver to come out on top and leading that team. But I think Utah have clearly improved. I think they're playing with more confidence that we've seen throughout the season. Can they see this belief within the group? I think the mentality has shifted very positive. But being a contender means having that consistency that you need and beating at that playoff level team, I think I'm not sure that they're still at that level. I think we've got to give them the rest of the season and they have to show that consistency because it is difficult to stay at the top. Once you get there, some teams are like, oh, we finally made it to the top. But then the actual motivation and that confidence comes from being there by doing the right things and staying at the top and showing that consistency throughout the playoff. I'm hoping that they stick to their game plan. They stick to the identity because it has been working. And they deserve to be in the playoffs because of the performances that they've had. I don't want to sound the alarms just yet. But I do think that they have to make sure that they get the small details right in order to continue to where they are now. It seems like the timing of this slip-up I want to call it against Denver is still very much on time trying to correct things. But talking about mentality here, what we've seen from Denver here in their first year was my surprise team here for the season. Still proving that week after week. But without Lindsey Heapsen, this one, when you think about Denver's mentality, Ali, where can that take them here in the last stretch of the season? They definitely have the personnel, right? And they start some games off with putting teams on their heels and high pressing and trying to counter press well. So that creates more chances. We've seen that from Denver. And now they have Lindsey Heaps who can really control the tempo of the game, dictate the game, and be that leader that they need in midfield. I think with Sonas, I think she's doing her part really well. She's leading the team, but also scoring goals and getting points on the board in order for them to have these successful moments. But this has to be more consistent. They have to have more complete performance in order to get the points more consistently weekend and weekend. I don't necessarily think they're there yet. But I do think they have the personnel to do it. They have the talent. They have the coaching staff. They have all the tools. And now I think it's just finding that consistency that they need in order to kind of get past that threshold of, you know, the playoff contention and getting towards the top of the table. Yeah, easier said than done for any team, especially a team in its first year. And another team like Utah Royals, not used to being on top and avoiding that vertigo to just stay there and stay focused on what comes next. Obviously the post season, which is where we're expecting now to see Utah Royals, but like we said, a lot of things can change here in the last few weeks of the NWSL season, so we will have to see what happens here in the next few weeks, not only for Denver, but also for Utah. Let's take into the match that closed down at the NWSL weekend Seattle Rain vs. Angel City. Talk to me about Jacelle Thompson, Ali. She's been unbelievable and so great for Angel City to get on the board here. Obviously making one nothing well done to cut inside and get that shot off near post. Seattle came up the halftime on a fire and Sally Menti really meant it, Ali. Yeah, I see what you did there. What a great touch in a finish. I think just obviously you see Laura Harvey, your manager celebrated like crazy in that moment to level in one one. She would continue to celebrate because me official had such a great strike. And this is probably one of the goals of the season, I think. I mean, unbelievable for her to come back to where she was, getting back in this groove that she has, and taking a shot like that and scoring a goal for Seattle was tremendous. How about this shot? Some fancy footwork from Riley Ternin at close, but Claudia Tiki was a little better. Yeah, she had a shot from distance touched obviously over the bar, so well done by Claudia Tiki, but so close for L.A. to tie it. And this goal left me speechless. Chris got you a little fear off the bench yet again, Ali. Yeah, just the immediate impact that she had, unbelievable decision there. She saw, reminds me of the Rose Lavelle goal a little bit. She sees the goalkeeper out just the touch and just does a slight chip over the goalkeeper's head. Well done. Side 90 makes it 2-2. This was exciting towards the end. 80 second minute, Angard James Turner was trying there, Angelina Anderson, but got the better of its Seattle rain. It was so close. How close? This close to winning it as well. Holly Ward also off the bench trying to find one at the end. Let's talk about this moment though, and a little bit first we hear from Laura Harvey. We'll walk us through a bit of what happened at the end of the game, with the ref said about the non-penalty call, and it looked like there was a bit of a scuffle on the sideline. Anything you can share? I spoke to the ref and I just, I said I didn't know if it was a penalty, but I didn't think it was a foul on us. I don't know what the sideline was. Apart from my hand being squeezed and kept hold of, which was not a nice feeling. I mean just all around on fire, what we saw Sunday night, and we are so pumped to bring in a former Angel City and New Zealand player, Ali Riley, reporter, analyst, extraordinaire. So happy to have you with us, Ali. Let's talk about Angel City though. They earned their second consecutive away match draw. Just kept that concentration through and through. For you, is this team starting to turn a corner? I hope so. All of the games have me just on the edge of my seat. I always joke that you can't go to the bathroom. You can't get a drink of water. Don't forget about getting a snack, because if you blink, you could miss two goals in this league, especially right now, which I feel like this stretch has maybe been kind of like the dog days of the NWSL in previous seasons, but absolutely not. These teams and these players are on fire. So obviously with spendiss yarn's daughter being out, it was a question of who was going to step up and score some goals. And I love seeing Giselle Thompson on the score sheet. I think she is so dangerous. She's so good, both ends of the pitch. And Priska Chalufia, to come back after obviously a disappointing exit from the women's Afcon, and then to do that, I'd like to see her get more minutes, and maybe she can be the answer here, because Angel City isn't a bubble battle, and I really want to see them make the playoffs. And Ale, you touched on this a little bit about Giselle Thompson, and obviously scored a goal in this game, and she's had a couple more of the season, and really made it impact since being in LA. But can you talk a little bit about her progression on the team, as well as, you know, playing alongside of her yourself? Well, Giselle, of course, having a sister like Alyssa, I think tended to let Alyssa speak, and Alyssa got a lot of media attention, scored a lot of goals, and now we've seen, and she speaks about it a lot herself, how much she has grown, and getting the opportunity in the national team to show what she can do, to fight for a spot, a starting spot, in my opinion, for the women's World Cup next summer. She's more confident, she's more vocal. She is a leader, even at that young age, because let's be honest, she's one of the players who's been at this club the longest at this point with so many fresh faces, so I'm so proud of her, and I think her personality, the vibe that she brings to the locker room and her energy is so important for this pretty young team, but she, the sky's the limit for her. I feel like she's just getting started, and she's so good, and she's defining what the new modern fullback is, because of her skill, how she always drives inside, and how she's showing, she can shoot off both feet, and it's very hard to defend a player who's willing to cut inside and shoot, or go in line and cross. And, of course, she wins so many of her 1v1 battles, as a defender, which is, which she's really out there to be doing. So, this question is for both of you, and I'm going to use your last names, because this is an Ali Squared edition here on FootballW. Let's go! Ali Riley! Riley, I'm going to start with you first. I want to stick with Dezele Thompson, because it's crazy how now Angel City is just adapting to what she can do. If she goes up, Claire, Emsley was dropping there for her. So, what do you think about Angel City kind of also playing to be able to have Dezele Thompson and have these amazing moments on the attacking side as well? I think it's really smart when you have a player with those skills of that caliber, a marquee player, a superstar, we're going to see what she can do in the years to come, because, again, I think she's just getting started, but you adapt to that, when you have a player that good, and when you have players like Claire Emsley and Maya Ranouse, who was playing in that position before being unavailable, these are players who are also versatile and can play inside, and Claire is technical, and she's an engine, and she works so hard, and she is going to be willing to run down and defend if Dezele is in a higher position. So, I think it's just really, really smart. It does mean that when Dezele is higher up, that the defense has to be extra cautious, and I do think that is an area where Angel City probably needs to focus on to stop conceding and make sure that they don't get caught out in that position behind Dezele when she's higher. Yeah, Craig's its high-risk high reward, right, with Dezele? Yeah, absolutely, but I think more reward than high risk. I do agree with what Ali said. You have to have good countermeasures when she does choose to go forward, and you're essentially then defending in a three-back. And so, when one of your outside back goes higher, like Ali mentioned, and two, the game is changing and two of the modern game, that's what it requires. It requires the outside back to get into the attack, to create numbers-up situations in the wide areas, to be able to create goalscoring opportunities, to get goals themselves. We've seen that so often in this league, but also around the world. So, it's been unbelievable. I think she's been such a positive, you know, player for L.A., but also now with the national team. But going off of that, Ali, you know, along with Giselle, and having these types of players with L.A., what does Angel City have to do in order to get this playoff push? For me, it's to stop conceding. Sometimes I feel like they're their own worst enemy. It looked after the first half over the weekend. I felt that they had done enough to win the game, and just a little bit of breakdowns. It feels like some kind of miscommunications, and these players, Angelina Anderson, has been doing so well in the second part of the season. So, maybe it's just trusting yourself and knowing that Emily Sam's came in. This is a defender of the year. These are solid defenders, and it's just staying focused the whole 90 minutes because, again, what's sent us, yarn starter coming back, Ellie Centnor. She is really, really working hard to get that first goal and goal contribution. So, I just feel like, as soon as it clicks, and again, they've played two games less than a lot of the teams ahead of them. So, I do think that they are set up, especially not getting the loss in Seattle. They still have some momentum with them. Yeah, for sure. And when we look at this team, and Ellie Riley, you know this well, and so many coaching changes that we've seen. It's truly impressive, but the players have still been able to do up until this point. Sarah Gordon, being the captain as well, has just, she's one of the smartest defenders I think I've seen right now. Don't get jealous, you guys. You know, I admire, I admire both of you what you did. I mean, I have to clarify. Right, but hey, it's fine. It's okay. I mean, this is all about comparison. And speaking of, when we talk about this Sunday night, against Angel City, we'll play against Washington Spirit on a very special night. It is Disney Princess theme night, and I love to see it. August 8th, at BMO Stadium, it is at 6 p.m. Eastern, actually, Pacific time. It is 9 p.m. Eastern here for us. So, let's break it down. It will be on ESPN. It's so excited to call this here on the Spanish-speaking side as well. But let's get into the Disney Princess theme here of it all. But before we dive into this really fun dynamic that we have, Ali, can you tell us? Ali Riley, can you tell us a little bit about what we can expect on this magical night? Oh, my gosh. I am so excited. I am going to have to get there early because we've got giveaways. We're going to have Princess Tiana, the actress who played Princess Tiana, singing at halftime. There will be some special princess guests there, which will be an amazing photo op for everybody. So, I think just a really, really fun idea, very creative. And I think it will get the fans very, very involved. And we're going to need a rowdy crowd because we know Washington Spirit is a very good team. I mean, maybe go to the Bippity-Boppity boutique and get your little up to you. I'll be there. And put your best Disney Princess voice on. I mean, I kind of want to be there as well, obviously. Come on, come on. Disney land to warm up in Anaheim and then just make your way to BMO Stadium. It sounds like a lovely day. All right, let's get into this dynamic too. We're calling this if the cleat fits. So, basically, we're going to get your comparisons here with some Disney princess of it all. Allie, which Allie, am I starting with here? We are starting with Allie Riley. So, the player is Mayani Huss. So, who are you comparing her to? Okay, so stay with me. My news, she's young, she's spunky. I feel like when she plays, she just rubs the opposition. A little bit rebellious. So, she is my Ariel. Oh, cute. A Brazilian Ariel. I love that. Kriegs, what do you think? Yes, so, I wanted to ask Allie who she thought Claire Emsley would most likely represent. Okay, Claire is my best friend. This is the highest honor I can bestow on anyone when it comes to Disney princesses. She is a warrior. She's a fighter. She's an inspirational and she's also a bit of a tactician. So, she is my Mulan. Yes. This is one of the hardest assignments I've ever had, you guys. Oh, I love that. Yeah, I completely understand my comparison. Anytime we see her baby too, it's just kind of reminds you of her day to day as well. And I love to see that speed, which of course Mulan always had on the battlefield. But we see that from Claire Emsley on the actual field. All right, Allie, how about Casey Fair? Okay, so Casey, for me, again, this young, young woman who was in 23, the youngest player to ever play at a World Cup. She has explored the world with the national team playing for South Korea. She also took a chance and went on loan, was playing in Sweden. So, she is my Moana, daring and exploration. Okay. Yeah, I love that. I love Moana. I want to sing all the songs for everybody. I wanted to take the kids to go see Moana, but it's more so for me, and not necessarily for them. Right, me and you can go to win win. Yeah, exactly. Next, important player, June Endow. Who does she go to slightly represent? This for me is a little bit about what she's gone through and also what I want to manifest for her, because I think we know Cinderella had it tough at home, okay? So, the evil stepmom and the sisters, they represent these injuries that she has been battling through with the first ACL, and then she got to come back and have this beautiful period. She was looking so good only for the clock to turn midnight, and she tore her other ACL, and she's been sharing her journey of feelings on social media a little bit. But, like, were the animals, the friends, who are all going to stick with her and take care of her, and she is going to get her fairy tale ending. She deserves it, and I just know it, and she is such a brilliant player in person, and so she's my Cinderella princess. I love that. We're manifesting that for June as well, sending her so much love here in this recovery. Obviously, it's the last thing that we wanted to see, especially for someone like her in the journey that she's been through. So, I think the comparison is perfect. Also, a true Disney princess shows vulnerability, and we know that June has done that in your last game, too, Ali. They were giving her so many tissues, too. It was just so... I'm so sorry. I wanted to cry. Don't remember Cinderella crying that much, but... Oh! We love her, June Endo. Okay, last one, and we've talked about her, but we've got to get your comparison here, Ali, for Giselle Thompson. I wouldn't really be deep with these. Okay, so... Has a famous sister, kind of coming into her own out of the shadow, saves the day often for Angel City, both in attack and defense. Giselle is my Anna from Frozen. I don't know which are like the technical Disney princesses, but... I thought this was a good one. I think this is a great one. In my hair too. And the hair is feeling really good. Oh, I mean... The hair style. The only downside is that she's in LA, so if she wants someone to build a snowman with her, she might have to do a little bit of traveling. But, hey, Giselle, we'll be the snowman, or a sandman with you, as well. Alright, I love these comparisons. Ali, and it truly just kind of obviously reflects how well you know these players, as well. So, thank you so much for these comparisons. But before we let you go, we want to know how you're doing, obviously, in this post-player era. We know you're really busy here, killing it during the summer. So, what's coming up next year for you? Thank you. Well, yes, I got to travel a little bit, and now I am so re-energized to cover the NWSL. We all love this league so much, and being in studio with Ion, I'll do some sideline with Prime, and also continue focusing on the IVF journey with my husband, so being able to share using my platform, and other people to lend their platform for me, as well, to make sure that no one out there going through this feels like they're alone. So, we are looking forward to doing another embryo transfer here in a couple of weeks, so a lot of focus on that, as well. I know we touched on it a little bit before we came on air, Ali, but you being so open with your journey really means a lot to me. I had a miscarriage in January, and today is actually three months out of my endometriosis surgery. So, truly, you being so open about it, and I'm even getting a little emotional about it, means a lot to me. I never thought that I would say this on live TV, but I just really hope that you know that everything that you're doing, it's connecting with someone. It connected really, really deeply with me, and I just really admire and appreciate everything that you do. Oh, well, thank you, and thank you for sharing, and I'm proud of you, and we are definitely in this together with so many other women. I love that, too. Disney Comparisons, maybe for us. Kriegs, Riley, do you guys have a Disney princess that you connect with? Oh, my gosh. Yeah, Kriegs. Sorry. I would say Jasmine. I love Jasmine, yes. That's a good, she's a little sassy. I see that, Kriegs. She's a rebel. Well, I already mentioned, and of course, I gave the honor to Claire. I'm already calling her Mulan, but maybe we can be, I can be one of the warriors in her camp, one of those guys trying to keep up with Mulan. I love that, too. I love Ariel. Jasmine is my favorite Disney princess, but of course, I love Ariel, too, just to give a little different answer here. Allie Riley, you're the best. Thank you so much. Friend of the program. Always happy to see you, to talk to you, and we wish you all the best. Thank you. Wanna remind you again what's coming up this Sunday, a magical night when Angel City FC takes on Washington Spirit Sunday 9 p.m. Eastern, ESPN, ESPN, the port. This, and of course, the ESPN app. All right, let's dive into our NWSL player of the week. A lot of interesting candidates, CJ, as we mentioned, Piotr Thornton with that hat trick. Emma Sears, Saunas, and of course, the amazing Ashley Sanchez. So, Allie, who is your player of the week? My player of the week is Emma Sears. She scored a brace for Louisville against Orlando, but it wasn't only the two goals that she scored of us. It was the quality of her overall performance for me. She's played with confidence, was aggressive in the final third, consistency, that caused a lot of problems with her movement and directness. So, Orlando just couldn't seem to find a solution for that. She looked dangerous and every time that Louisville went forward and delivered in the biggest moment. So, I'm definitely going with her this week. And obviously, Louisville hasn't had the best of seasons, so it's nice to see her come out on top this week and do really well for her team to get those three points. I'm sure Louisville is so very happy that Emma Sears has stuck around and she came back and better than ever. We know she had to be on the bench there for a little bit, but physically now, obviously, showing that she's kind of forgotten all about that. And I'm sure, obviously, not only Emma Sears is happy about that. Emma Hayes is happy about that as well for the US Women's and National Team squad. So, we saw the nominees, but I have to go with the baby of the group. Pietro, toward it, you had a Patrick and made a history for Portland Thorns this weekend. This was also a seven-goal game. I thought it was going to be easier for Portland. They were up three now. Pietro, toward it, was having the game of her career. And this will be a day that she will surely never forget. But it's just a little bit of everything that we're seeing for Pietro. She does it from set pieces. She does it here on pace, 1v1. And her finishes are just so intelligent. And it's so exciting that she is so young and she's already doing just such impressive things, obviously, with Portland, who we know that they obviously guide their youngest players at such a high level in Pietro Tornin is responding perfectly. Ali, thoughts on Pietro? Yeah, from the very first time she came on the show. She's also a friend of the show, but she came on the show and she was just talking about the tendencies that she has and what she wants to work on and work towards. And I think she's doing exactly that. And just she's just dependable in the front line. And she has that confidence now. I think she's more motivated than ever just to continue to care this Portland team after that five game. You know, outside of not being able to win five games and coming out on top in a way game was really brilliant for her. She had three chances and three goals. So you can't go wrong with her up top right now. And I think that relationship she's building with Sophia Wilson has been incredible recently in order to get them to where they are now. But she's done well. She looks confident. She's been consistent. So good for her. Yeah, absolutely. After that amazing Patrick here in this weekend, there's also some bad news for Portland Thorns here. News that we just heard about. Olivia Mulchry has been placed on the season and during ending injury list. She has torn her ACL. And unfortunately Ali, I see you shaking your head. That's my obviously. And we just talked about Junendo here with Ali Riley. But your reaction obviously to seeing her on this list and tearing her ACL. Yeah, it's unbelievably sad. That's devastating. I'm so gutted for her. And then for the team, obviously she's a huge part of Portland and the style, the play, the dictating games. She's obviously thinking, I'm thinking about national team, right? And her opportunities there. So I'm sure she's extremely devastated. But I know a player like her who is so strong, who is so determined to continue to better herself and get better. She's going to come back better than ever. So I'm just thinking of her. And the road back is going to be difficult. But I guarantee you she's going to come back stronger than ever. Knowing the type of person a player that she is and who she is to Portland and also what she means to that city, to that team. And then with national team, I know she's going to have the best people around her to get her back to where she is. But I'm really devastated hearing that news as I'm sure a lot of other people are around the league. Yeah, and I'm sure she'll hear a lot as she's heard throughout her career. You're so young. You're so young. You have time. But knowing Olivia Moultry and that strong mentality that she has, she wants to take advantage of every single minute and every single second that she has as a professional football player. And as we're able to obviously to enjoy her at the NWSL. So all the best for Olivia Moultry. We always love having her here on football W. So we send her all the recovery vibes possible. Speaking of the NWSL, here's what's coming up this weekend. Gotham vs. Casey Current. Decide on Ted Lasso. And we're going to see it again this weekend. You tell Wellesers, they see Seattle vs. Chicago. Wave vs. Denver Summit. Couple of games here on Saturday. Wanna remind you what's coming up on Sunday. Angel City vs. Washington Spirit 9 p.m. Eastern on ESPN. To another player who was always on top. And this is despite her being born in 2007. Yes, Lily Johan is that only 19 years old has already accomplished so much. Not only being the future for the US Women's National Team here under a year to go before the Women's World Cup. But also her journey in Europe becoming recently the Women's Champions League Revelation player of the year alongside Lindsey Hebs. And now learning to live without her at Leone. Lily Johan has so much ahead of her. And she talked about that and much more with our Alexa's newness. You're still so young, but you've already played in some big, you know, European nights, European games as well. How do you manage it? How do you manage it? What would you say to someone that's wondering how you manage to deal with with all that pressure and that noise? I think I just tried to be myself. I think, you know, playing on a big stage. That's something that just comes with it, the pressure, the noise. But I think you just try to stay to myself. And yeah, I realized that this is also just a great experience. It's something that I've always wanted to be playing in big games. I'm the biggest stadiums against the biggest opponents. So I just see it as an honor and I try to enjoy as much as possible. You're one of the players that definitely excites us the most. I mean, we have to almost remind ourselves how young you are and careful not to put some heavy expectations on you. But you seem to live for the big moments for this Champions League, of course, with the US Women's National Team. What has Emma Hayes told you about her expectations of you, especially for the next year? Yeah, I think, you know, Emma, she speaks a lot to all of us. She speaks a lot to me. I think she just says to take every experience as you go. I think as I move forward and as I get more experience, a club, a national team, I just try to take everything as I go and to use that to improve, to help the team. I think that's a goal of mine is to be, you know, an important part of the team to make a difference. And I think as I continue to grow this past year, I think that's something that I want to continue to do. And Emma has helped guide me in that way and through every experience, just helping me to be the player that I want to be. Yeah, we love us some Emma, indeed. For Club Now, it's not everybody that in their first season just casually makes a Champions League final. You know, but you and I did that like it was nothing. Now that you've had time to, I suppose, process the game. Of course, the result didn't go the way you guys would have wanted. But what did you take from that whole experience, the whole season and that night, too? Yeah, I think the whole season, if we look at the broader picture, I think it was a really great season for us. We won a lot of trophies. We, I think, grew a lot as a team as well. There is a lot of changes. New players coming in, myself included. New coach, new staff. So that all in all, I think we performed really well, making a final winning three trophies. It's something we can be proud of. But I think also just the way that we play. I think we have so much quality in the team. We have a great coach who helps us be prepared for these moments. And yeah, I'm excited for the future with this team, for sure. Well, I'm sure they're excited as well to have you. You won the UEFA revelation of the season. What did that mean to you? Yeah, it means a lot. I think as a young player, playing in the Champions League, it's something I've always dreamed of. And to be rewarded this as a revelation of the year is a great honor. And I'm just grateful to my club for giving me the opportunity to help the team and to play in these big games. And my teammates, of course, who just make the whole process so enjoyable and fun. And then final question now, because I'm sure at the end of the season, it was a bit emotional as well, because Lindsay heaps, of course, is leaving. She's making her way back here too. And WSL, what was it like playing alongside her? What did you learn? And just sort of the legacy she left behind at Leon. Yeah, Lindsay, I've said multiple times, but I think she's just, an amazing player, amazing leader, as someone who I've looked up to as a young kid, growing up, and to have played alongside her at club was such an amazing experience. I think that only her being a mentor for me, but also growing that friendship that we have over the year has been really great. And, yeah, I mean, we still play together for the national team, so we try to keep it positive in that sense. But I'm going to miss her so much for sure in Leon. But I'm grateful for the experiences that we've had together, that we've made together, winning trophies together. And yeah, I think she's helped me so much in my first year at the club to settle in and to adapt. And I fill out home in Leon, unfortunately, she's leaving me. But, yeah, like I said, we have each other at a national team, and yeah, we're a great person and great player. Coming from a great player herself, and Lily Johannes, thank you to our Alexis Nunez here as Johannes's numbers in the last two league seasons, obviously, coming from Iax versus what she's seeing now at Leon, at least a few more starts, compared to actually what we're seeing. Well, a few less, actually, assists, goal contributions. So a little bit of everything, but we are obviously seeing that growth from her alley, not only at the club level playing in these big games, like she mentioned recently, the Champions League final, learning alongside Lindsay Hebs. So for you, what's next when you see Lily at Leon and what she's already done at the European level? Well, I think you just look at the type of development that she has because development isn't only about how many minutes you play, I think it's about the environment challenging you every single day, and you could tell she's put herself, she's kind of thrown herself into that environment at a very young age to really develop in the way that she wants to play, but she also wants to be as a human being, as a person of the teammate. And at Leon, she's surrounded by Lee Midfielders, competing at Champions League level, experiencing incredibly high standards and training every single day. So that kind of environment has accelerated her development. So she wants to continue winning trophy. She wants to continue to win Champions League. She wouldn't have gone to Leon if that wasn't a goal of hers. So I think, you know, I'm seeing now her development turn into that potential of consistency. So we want to see that day in and day out, and now bringing that consistency to the national team. I think it was a tremendous move for her. It was a smart move for her to go to Leon, and now she's able to play Champions League football. She's a, you know, higher daily standards. She's really challenged, not only on the field, but off the field as a person as well. So when you're uncomfortable, you then can, you know, grow and change and develop even more, which then can add, and you can apply that to on field moments. So all in all, learning from a Lindsey heaps and now putting herself in that position where she can be a consistent starter in that role, which then will lead more consistency to the national team. I think is going to be unbelievable for her. But that is the environment that she chose. And she knew that it wasn't going to be comfortable. And she knew where she wanted to be. And so that developmental stage is super key for her right now. And just to stay fit and as healthy as she can, because I know this progress will be instrumental for the US national team moving forward in the future. Yeah, it was so great that they were able to have this season together with Lily and with Lindsey heaps as well, because she's now flying the coop on her own here in France. But let's talk about the US national team here. Allie, obviously, working around someone like Lily O'Hannes and her talent is worth it. I mean, it's a little bit like how we were talking about Giselle Thompson. It seems obviously more reward than it is the rest. But to you, who do you picture playing alongside Lily O'Hannes? Well, I see in how Rose is playing now. I don't think she'll ever be on the sidelines. I think she'll always be in that central midfield. I do think Lindsey heaps has a tremendous relationship with her. I think they understand each other really well along with Rose. So I think those three will be super dynamic. And then you have Sam Koffee coming back, obviously coming back from injury, starting back with Man City getting this preseason under her belt. I think we'll start seeing more playing time for her as the season continues this fall and starts up again. So we don't necessarily know at the moment, but I do think there's a slight advantage of them building that relationship in Lyon. And now just the type of player Rose is, I think that's a tremendous three. But we never know how that'll evolve. There's constant changing and there's definitely a lot of players and personnel that you could choose from for that central midfield. But I think it's whoever has those relationships the best and who has an understanding of each other on the field. I think we'll get that call. But I don't think we need to actually rush her or immediately expect her to become the face of the US one's national team midfield. I think let her continue to develop through her club football. She's challenged every day at Lyon like we were talking about the national team will ultimately benefit from that. So I think we have to be careful and we have to treat her with care because she's a tremendous player. She's a tremendous talent. And the US one's national team is so lucky to have her especially her now choosing to be full on with the US women's national team where she could have chose elsewhere. I think is unbelievable too and that shows a statement. But the development is key so let's allow her that and let's allow her that time because we will benefit from that in years to come. Yeah I don't even want to call her a diamond in the rough because she's already shining so brightly at 19 years old. It's amazing she will turn 20 basically during next year's tournament in Brazil. So that says a lot not only about her her development her growth and after making that choice Ali having to put up with booze from so many crowds still playing at IACS and now being obviously more comfortable it will not more comfortable with saying that she feels at home here at UNS and also learning so much from Lindsay Heaps. It seems like so far so great for Lily Johannes and at the US women's national team level as well. If she keeps this momentum up not only becoming the revelation player of the year but becoming one of the best next year at the Champions League level where do you see her performing at what level for the US women's national team at the World Cup? Yeah I think she has a tremendous chance I think she definitely can make the 23 the roster. I think they can lean on her a lot. I think the intelligence that she has, the experience that she has already at only 19 is unbelievable and is quite motivating to see. And that's something that you don't necessarily see a lot from our younger players right or at least when I was still playing on the team in our generation we didn't have a lot of teenagers on the team at that time and now it is so good to see and so healthy to see that they are getting those opportunities earlier on because they are getting more comfortable and more confident in their roles and what is expected of them at that age. So it's been brilliant to watch the adjustments, the changes and now she's has the opportunity to prove herself and she's done that already. So continue to develop, continue to get more comfortable in that position, continue to get more comfortable in the relationships that you're building with the players around you and then just let loose at a World Cup and show us why you deserve to be there. She's been unbelievable, she challenged every single day so I can see her talents definitely being played more consistent with Emma. Obviously she values her and I know the United States as a fan base and supporting supporters definitely value her. So as long as she can control her development as best she has, then I have no doubt that we'll see her there. Yeah, I completely agree with you and I'm sure she will be very happy to have a very busy summer just like you just had during the men's tournament in this summer. You were all over the place Ali, I was happy to run into you once or twice but we know you were busy having a good time especially on fanatics fest. You were there with Mitch Purse, Charlie Davis and Chris Turner helped you guys roast the US men's national team. Let's take a look. We have to do a freestyle about the US men's national team performance. So I mean what would you like the rap to be about? We'll get three specific things and then I'll freestyle about it. Let's hear from you. Charlie, do you want to be there? Charlie, you go first. I want to see they were inspirational. The inspirational, look at this place, look at this facial expression. Red card. The red card, yeah, inspirational red card and then Mitch. I'm crumbling under pressure. We'll take that. Crank it up, batto. Crank it up, let's hear that. First things, first off with the dome, the situation. Charlie's saying, now you know they bring the inspiration. People were watching like, no, that must be dead hard. But don't worry, flow coming with the red card. I know you got to live and you learn, you got to make a phone call and then you get it overturned. They were like, yeah, he can play the game. Flow born in the UK again in the game. But let me talk about this seriously, non-better. We learned they crumble under the pressure of course. We're going like off the top. Charlie's like it's only in one game that they've blocked, but don't worry. Four years till the game's back, they've become new. Maybe they give it a crack. Maybe they will win. I know it might seem absurd, but maybe they could lose a semi and they would finish third. I thought they gave a really great performance and I was really proud of their group stage play. Is it all I wanted to say? And Alan Krieger's rap in three, two, one. Here we go today. No, I was good. I'm not as good as he is. It was unbelievable. It felt really bad. It felt really bad because the men were inspiring exactly like Charlie had said. Yeah, it was disappointing in the end. Obviously we all felt bad. But yeah, what a moment there to share. And hear that rap. It was incredible. The amount of time that he could think to do that was really, really great. Yeah, that was truly impressive. Something else that was impressive. And as our bet, though, always says, What a moment. Ali Krieger. So now the first pitch, okay baseball player, I see you, Ali. Yeah, they were like, do you want to stand in the grass in front of the mound? Do you know you're talking to? I go absolutely not. One is pride night too. I'm standing right on the mound. And I'm showing everybody that I'm attacking everything. Hey, you made it to home plate. Did anybody. Did anybody help you warm up? Warm up, not practice. No, I just literally went out there and lobbed it in. Wow, Ali Krieger. It was fun. I don't know why I'm surprised. Ali Krieger is good at mostly everything that she does, especially. When it involves sports. She is athletic. You're doing a little strike. Yeah, that was great. That was great. I'm not bad at pitching a wiffle ball. I will say that. A wiffle ball. One of my dudes coming up for the U.S. women's national team. Of course, October 10th versus Spain, a double friendly here. October 13th against Spain as well, both in U.S. territory in November 27th. For the conca-caf w championship. All right. Let's take it to some walk on action. It's a wing of smiling from ear to ear. We will show you exactly why Malawi taking on Ghana in the Afghan quarter finals. Centella Void. Lorca scores with the volley into the far corner, Ali. What a strike. Yeah, unbelievable strike there. So we have to allow that time of the ball to come down and time it perfectly to get a strike like that and volley like that. That's really difficult to do. And stop me if you've heard this before. Ten, watch your wing. That scores your full Malawi and it's a great one. Yeah, of course. Showing it has to get on the board and help her team get this goal. So both beautiful. Well done. She's had a great tournament. She really has. She has a brilliant advantage of that deflection as well. 79th minute rolls. Cazera here. Scoring with a low shot from Malawi to win it. Two, one. And a ticket to next tournament. To next summer's the tournament. So they advance to the semi-finals, Ali, but what a goal here. I mean, it's that touch, right? It's not even the goal. It's that touch that she sets herself up with to be able to put that in the back of the net. And this is so much bigger than one result or one upset, right? When a country like Malawi qualifies for its first World Cup, it changes what an entire generation believes it's possible. And that was so impressive by Temla and the team all together. Yeah, Temla smiles very regularly. And so it's great to smile along with her. And so excited to see what she is capable of. Not only in the NWSL, but alongside her sister here. And Malawi, I mean, especially with that, Ali, to see her still performing at such a high level, to you says what about Temwa Chawinga? But we maybe don't know already. You know, she's just a generational talent. She's an unbelievable asset to any team. If I were on her team, I would be looking for her at every moment I could to just set her up and give her the ball because magic will definitely happen. She is consistent. She is confident. She is a tactician in front of goal. She is an unbelievable player that we have now. We can see her weekend and week out at the NWSL. But how incredible to go to the Wafcon to be able to lead your team and your country and these young girls who look up to you can now grow up knowing the World Cup isn't some distant dream for them, right? It's something that their country has actually achieved. And that belief can inspire so many generations to come. That's greater investment as well for the federation to put towards these amazing women who are so talented and really good at what they do. Stronger pathways that they can find and more opportunities for young athletes, specifically girls in this situation. Young athletes just to play football in the sport that they love. Incredible scenes there. Obviously for Tim Ma, her sister, for the rest of the squad, they've deserved that. And I'm really happy that she can come home and be proud of that performance and be able to say, yes, I am going to the World Cup next summer. And we will be there and we will challenge everyone and we will bring the best of our ability. And this tournament has been so fun to watch and take part in. Yeah, it definitely has been really fun, especially when we're seeing Tim watch a wing of performance at such a high level as we're used to seeing her. If we minister in the NWL, let's just sit down and enjoy some waft on as well. In the semifinals, Malawi will face Algeria, so looking forward to what you're going to do. They're rushing the field. They're obviously, as you said, qualifying to their first World Cup. So very much looking forward to seeing her in action. Obviously, if all goes well for next summer. Let's take it to another surprise we saw at the waft on level. Cameroon taking on Nigeria. And the free kick was all Cameroon needed for Maeda Raju. And I love the celebration as well, Ali. I mean, the celebration is what it's all about. But this strike to just hit your foot through it and knowing that it's going in the top bends. I mean, unbelievable seeing that. I was such a beautiful goal. Well done. Yeah, to put all of your laces just on that ball was so beautiful to watch. In slow mo, Shepp's kiss, even better. So Cameroon will take on Morocco here in the semifinal and looking forward to a possible great final. As we mentioned, Malawi will face Algeria next. So a lot of great goals that we were just able to enjoy. Almost all hour on football. W, guess what? We're not done yet. Let's take it to our top 10 goals of the week. It is Al Raqqa Europe for Boston Legacy who was so close, Ali, to beating Portland. Yeah, so this was another fabulous goal to get Boston on the board and keep the game tighter. But what a beautiful touch. Sets it out in front of her and gets this strike off far post to put the ball on the back of that further south. Yeah, the plate is going to completely other way. Me official too. This, you said, was one of your favorites of the season, Ali, and I can understand why. Yeah, and I think a little bit about the background that she's had to go through in order to get to this point. So well done. First time strike left footed. Raps around the goalkeeper. Beautiful goal. And well done for her to lead Seattle. We had three goals to choose from for Pietro Tortin. And this was definitely impressive stuff by the youngster, Ali. Yeah, this was one of her three chances only in the first half. And she just sees the goalkeeper out. It does a slight little chip, brilliant, cheeky finish there by her to be able to help her team. Bow down to her. Indeed, sir, after that lovely hat trick that we saw from Portland, he took that victory. Let's see, it's a number seven Denver summits, Janina. Zonis went a great game and a great strike, Ali. Yeah, especially in this moment in the game, you're so nervous. You want to get the ball in a good position. You're able to then put it in the back of the net and help your team win and get these three points. Unbelievable goal. So happy for her. And she's been on the score sheet, game in and game out. Hey, we're itching there for the women's champions. Like to come back. Well, guess what? We have some qualifying here for you. Number six. I'm track Frankfurt with Delara Archegas from there, Ali. Yeah, shout out to my own team. It used to be SFC Frankfurt. But now into I'm track Frankfurt. Great decision to just get the ball out of your foot. Quick turn and quick trigger in the back of the net. Yeah, what a fantastic strike. We're going to stay in some women's champions like qualifying for number five. And Fern have archaed versus Louvin. Konya plumbing, getting the ball. And they said, you know what? I'll just take care of it myself. Yes, I played with Konya. She was in Orlando. And has shown such progress in the play and her dominance wanting to score goals. So I wasn't surprised when I saw this strike. She hit that really well with her left foot, wrapped it around the goalkeeper. Yeah, smart and impressive all around. That number four from the Wafconn. A lot to choose from. But we just saw this. Let's see it again. Niaju for Cameroon, Ali. I mean, I keep this is my mouth is hitting the floor. It's an unbelievable strike to have the confidence just to hit it with all the power in your laces. And then to be able to hit it top-end, celebrate with your team. Beautiful goal. You knew exactly what she wanted to do. Let's take it to number three. Some Ligue I make. Ysif I'm an il. No, I mean, be at levels for Atlas. A little further away if you want there. No, I mean. Yeah, I mean, not the best of clearance is obviously this is an assist from the opponent. Beautiful to wait a hit it down to yourself. Slight volley to get some height on it. Goldkeeper just couldn't make the save. Saking to number two because it seemed like it was all about MS years. But Keria, hey, she was there too for a land of pride and showing up as she does so often and from distance. Yeah, it was so cool. Common collected the strike. She just set it down. Seize the opportunity. Nice little touch and hits it. So well. Right through the ball. Side netting. Beautiful, beautiful goal for Orlando. She is one of the toughest players of Ligue. No doubt one of the best for Orlando. And that reaction says it all. Our number one is for Imania Modeda for Cape Verde. Not only showing up this summer at the Wolf Cup, but also at Wafcon there, Ali. What a goal. Yeah, impressive goal. This is exactly a replica. Cape Verde against Argentina. It seems like it is the same twin goal that we saw during the tournament. Beautiful, well done by her to take that strike and have the confidence. I mean, unreal. I think Wafcon has just given me so much excitement towards where the progress is taking the women's football around the world and it's so fun to watch. Yeah, like you said, generating important investment and let's hope to see continuing in that one. We will continue to see you here on football W next week. Ali, because we got Emily Fox singing out with us too to preview what's coming up. Not only the WSL, of course, at the Women's Champions League level as well. Champions League level, always from you. Ali Krieger, see you next week. I can't wait. Yeah.