USWNT star Sophia Smith spoke about Emma Hayes' contribution to the squad's success as they reached the final of the Olympic games.
Article continues below
Article continues below
Article continues below
Smith praised manager HayesScored the winning goal against GermanyUSWNT one win away from bagging fifth Olympic goldWHAT HAPPENED?
The Portland Thorns forward was the hero for the United States women's national team on Tuesday as her 95-minute strike helped the USA edge out Germany 1-0 in the Olympic semi-finals. The Americans now have a chance to bag their record-extending fifth Olympic medal as they take on Brazil in the final.
Advertisement(C)Getty ImagesTHE BIGGER PICTURE
After guaranteeing her nation a medal, Smith opened up about new USWNT manager Emma Hayes' contribution to their recent success as she claimed that the former Chelsea manager has completely changed the environment of the dressing room.
WHAT SOPHIA SMITH SAID
Speaking to reporters after the semi-final, Smith said: "We’re a different team since she’s come in. She’s so hilarious and chill and funny, and I feel like that’s exactly what we needed. We have the players, we have the talent, we just needed someone to come in and believe in us and put us in the best position to succeed. Emma’s doing exactly that."
Getty ImagesWHAT NEXT FOR USWNT?
After the Olympic final on Saturday, Hayes and her girls will be back in action during the October international break when they take on Iceland in back-to-back friendlies.