After a lackluster showing in the group stages that saw the team barely advance to the knockout round of the 2023 FIFA Women’s World Cup, the United States Women’s National Team has been heavily criticized for their mentality. And team captain Lindsey Horan isn’t necessarily happy about the criticism her squad has received.
This week, USWNT legend Carli Lloyd absolutely blasted the team for their mentality, particularly after watching players dance and celebrate on the field following a near-loss to Portugal on Tuesday. And Lindsey Horan reacted to that criticism during a press conference this week.
“I always want to defend my team,” Horan said. “And say like, you have no idea what’s going on behind the scenes. You have no idea every single training what we’re doing, individually, collectively, etc.
“So, for anyone to question our mentality hurts a little bit. But at the end of the day, it doesn’t really matter. I don’t really care. It’s what’s going on inside of here and inside of the team and getting ready for that next game [that matters].”
It’s worth noting that the strongest criticism didn’t just come from a pundit or analyst, it came from a player who spent nearly two decades with the team and actually does know exactly what it’s like behind the scenes.
Still, it’s natural for Horan to want to defend her team as a captain.
