Advertise on podcast: The Late Sub with Claire Watkins

The USWNT fought back from a 2-0 deficit to earn a dramatic draw against Spain, but did the comeback answer any of the biggest questions facing Emma Hayes? Claire breaks down the good, the bad, and the concerning from the USWNT's two matches against Spain, and what they reveal about the team's chances at the 2027 Women's World Cup. Ashley Sanchez and Mallory Swanson deliver huge goals, but questions remain about Lindsey Heaps' role in the midfield, the USWNT's defensive struggles, and whether Claudia Dickey has emerged as the clear No. 1 goalkeeper. Plus, which players made their case for a World Cup roster spot, why the USWNT's attacking depth could be its biggest strength, and whether Emma Hayes needs to rethink her approach against the world's best teams. This episode is presented by Ally Bank, member FDIC. Chapters 00:00 Introduction 01:02 USWNT's Dramatic Spain Comeback 02:58 Emma Hayes' Bigger Picture 09:51 Breaking Down Spain 12:23 The Lindsey Heaps Problem 16:23 USWNT's Defensive Struggles 18:52 World Cup Roster Locks 20:01 The Goalkeeper Battle 22:47 Ashley Sanchez Shines 26:16 Mallory Swanson Is BACK 27:28 Impact Subs 30:46 Can the USWNT Evolve? 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://twitter.com/justwsports Tik Tok: https://www.tiktok.com/@justwomenssports?

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 best team in the world. Plus, why Sophia Wilson might have been the best player on the pitch despite the scoreline, the case for giving Jaelin Howell a start, and what Emma Hayes needs to change before the USWNT gets another shot at Spain. This episode is presented by Ally Bank, member FDIC. Chapters 00:00 Introduction 02:10 World Cup Champion Jess McDonald Joins 04:50 Trinity Rodman & Alyssa Thompson Switching Wings 08:01 Why Losing Can Be Good Before a World Cup 10:59 What's Wrong With the USWNT Midfield? 14:33 Lindsey Heaps' Role Moving Forward 19:00 Does Jaelin Howell Deserve a Shot? 24:11 Bright Spots From the USWNT's Second Half 26:15 Sophia Wilson's Impact 32:38 Goalkeeping, Claudia Dickey & Spain's Goals 37:45 Why Can't the USWNT Finish Its Chances? 42:36 How Important Is a Bounce-Back Win? 45:44 Who Should Emma Hayes Start Against Spain? 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://twitter.com/justwsports Tik Tok: https://www.tiktok.com/@justwomenssports?

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. This episode is presented by Ally Bank, member FDIC. Chapters 00:00 Introduction 02:06 USWNT Not Healthy… 06:17 The Case for Ashley Sanchez 10:30 Forwards Off the Bench 11:45 Midfielders 17:38 Defenders 22:06 Outside Backs 24:28 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 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://twitter.com/justwsports Tik Tok: https://www.tiktok.com/@justwomenssports?

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 EARNED it 17:18 Mal Swanson in the Midfield? 21:05 Sears & Rudd 22:29 Biggest Roster Snubs 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://twitter.com/justwsports Tik Tok: https://www.tiktok.com/@justwomenssports?

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? This episode is presented by Ally Bank, member FDIC. Chapters 00:00 Introduction 02:26 Absences for Injuries 04:38 Ashley Sanchez 07:16 Jaedyn Shaw 09:19 Croix Bethune 11:01 New Goalkeepers? 15:11 Stars of Tomorrow? 19:44 Rookie of the Year Lock??? 23:18 Players Trending Down… 28:37 Keeping Themselves in the Conversation 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://twitter.com/justwsports Tik Tok: https://www.tiktok.com/@justwomenssports?

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, member FDIC Chapters 00:00 Introduction 03:08 Why NWSL Coaches Keep Losing Their Jobs 05:59 What Happened With Vlatko Andonovski in Kansas City? 15:09 Orlando Pride Fire Seb Hines 20:30 Houston, Chicago & the NWSL Coaching Carousel 23:33 Utah Royals Prove Stability Can Work 27:04 Bay FC, Angel City & Who’s Next? 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://twitter.com/justwsports Tik Tok: https://www.tiktok.com/@justwomenssports?

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 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://twitter.com/justwsports Tik Tok: https://www.tiktok.com/@justwomenssports?

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 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://twitter.com/justwsports Tik Tok: https://www.tiktok.com/@justwomenssports?

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 14:52 Her Case for the USWNT 21:14 The WILD MVP Race 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://twitter.com/justwsports Tik Tok: https://www.tiktok.com/@justwomenssports?

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 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://twitter.com/justwsports Tik Tok: https://www.tiktok.com/@justwomenssports?

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 Washington Spirit Fall Short 14:27 Is Seattle Making a Run? 21:15 Gotham’s Defense Has them at the TOP of the Table 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://twitter.com/justwsports Tik Tok: https://www.tiktok.com/@justwomenssports?

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 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://twitter.com/justwsports Tik Tok: https://www.tiktok.com/@justwomenssports?

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 Injuries 18:54 Poor Chicago 22:31 Angel City Wonky Roster 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://twitter.com/justwsports Tik Tok: https://www.tiktok.com/@justwomenssports?

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 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://twitter.com/justwsports Tik Tok: https://www.tiktok.com/@justwomenssports?

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 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://twitter.com/justwsports Tik Tok: https://www.tiktok.com/@justwomenssports?