Extra Time: 91er Linda Hamilton

When the US Women's National Team began winning on the international stage, much credit was given to Anson Dorrance's innovative tactical approach. He deployed a 3-4-3 to counter 4-4-2 setups most commonly utilized by other international programs. Leveraging his team's athleticism, Dorrance relied on pressing to create transitional attacking opportunities. With talents like April Heinrichs, Michelle Akers and Carin Jennings-Gabarra ready to take advantage of those chances, the USWNT had enough fire power to win the inaugural FIFA Women's World Cup in 1991. With all the attention given to the team's attacking prowess, it was easy to overlook the importance of defenders like Linda Hamilton. The 2022 National Soccer Hall of Fame inductee was often given the task of marking and shutting down the oppositions best player. Her intimidating and physical style was important to the success of that 91 World Cup team, allowing that attacking talent to flourish while she solidied the last line ...