Saturday, June 1, 2024 marked a significant day in the world of women’s soccer as Emma Hayes made her official debut as the head coach of the US Women’s National Team (USWNT). The friendly match against South Korea at Denver, Colorado’s DSG Park was not only a test for the team, but also for Hayes as she stepped into the shoes of the legendary Jill Ellis, who had led the team to four World Cup titles.
The American ladies did not disappoint as they secured a convincing 4-0 win, with braces from Mallory Swanson and Tierna Davidson. The victory was a testament to the team’s strength and determination, and it was a promising start for Hayes’ tenure as the head coach.
Fast forward to today, Thursday, June 26, 2025, and the 4-time world champions returned to the same venue for a friendly match against Australia. As the team prepared for the game, Hayes couldn’t help but reflect on her debut match against South Korea and the journey that led her to this moment.
In an exclusive interview with EssentiallySports, Hayes opened up about her anxious debut and made an honest confession about her feelings at the time. “I remember feeling a mix of nerves and excitement before the match. It was my first game as the head coach of the USWNT, and I wanted to make a good impression,” she said.
Hayes’ appointment as the head coach of the USWNT was met with some skepticism, as she was relatively unknown in the American soccer scene. However, her success with Chelsea FC Women in the English Women’s Super League caught the attention of the US Soccer Federation, and she was given the opportunity to lead the national team.
“I knew there were some doubts about my appointment, but I was determined to prove myself and show that I was the right person for the job. The players were also very supportive, and that gave me the confidence to go out there and do my best,” Hayes shared.
And do her best, she did. The match against South Korea was a dominant performance from the USWNT, with Swanson and Davidson showcasing their skills and scoring two goals each. The team’s chemistry and cohesion were evident on the field, and it was clear that Hayes had already made a positive impact in a short amount of time.
As the team continued to achieve success under Hayes’ guidance, the doubts and skepticism surrounding her appointment slowly faded away. She led the team to another World Cup victory in 2027, making her the first female coach to win back-to-back titles.
Looking back at her debut match, Hayes admits that it was a defining moment in her career. “That match was a turning point for me. It was my first step towards building a successful team and proving myself as a coach. I am grateful for that experience, and it will always hold a special place in my heart,” she said.
As the USWNT prepares for the upcoming World Cup qualifiers, Hayes is focused on leading the team to another victory. But amidst the pressure and expectations, she takes a moment to appreciate how far she has come and the milestones she has achieved.
“I am proud of what we have accomplished so far, but we are always looking ahead and striving for more. The journey has been challenging, but it has also been incredibly rewarding. I am grateful for the opportunity to lead this amazing team,” Hayes expressed.
As the USWNT continues to dominate on the world stage, Hayes’ impact as the head coach cannot be ignored. She has proven herself to be a capable and successful leader, and her journey from an anxious debut to a confident and accomplished coach is an inspiration to many.
The match against South Korea may have been just another friendly, but for Emma Hayes, it was a significant moment that set the tone for her successful tenure as the head coach of the USWNT. And as she continues to make history with the team, she will always remember that day in Denver, Colorado, where it all began.
