In 2011, the US Women's National Team was twelve years removed from its second World Cup win. The shine of the 99ers was wearing off, particularly after two third places finishes in the 2003 and 2007 World Cups. Fans were wondering whether or not the period of American dominance in the women's game had passed. The team was hoping to prove the doubters wrong with a strong showing in the 2011 edition of the tournament.

Qualification was anything but straight forward. The US needed a playoff against Italy to even make it in. But, they got the job done and headed to Germany. Though they wouldn't come home with a third star, the USWNT produced one of the greatest moments in soccer history -- a miracle goal at the death by legend Abby Wambach that ultimately propelled the team to the finals against Japan. It would lose in that game and come home with a second place finish, but Abby's goal and the team's overall performance won fans over at a time when they were becoming invested in the game like never before thanks to changing technology.

Stephanie Cox was a member of the USWNT between 2005-2014, amassing 88 appearances in that time. A locked-in starter during the 2007 World Cup, Cox was part of the 2008 Olympics and 2011 World Cup squads as well. She joined Founding Futbol to reflect on her career and the unique attributes of the time that magnified Abby's goal and the fans reception to the women in that tournament.

Founding Futbol is a year-long exploration of the critical moments that have led to soccer's emerging popularity in America.

Visit our website for more information: ⁠⁠FoundingFutbol.com. Email us at kent@foundingfutbol.com.

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Host: Kent Malmros

Guest: Stephanie Cox (Former USMNT and NWSL Player, Head Coach Women's Soccer at Puget Sound)

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