After a 1-0 defeat to Japan, U.S. women’s national team head coach Emma Hayes confessed that she is prioritizing development over results right now. So, is that the right move for the team 14 months out from the next World Cup?

On this episode of Full Time, host Jillian Sakovits is joined by The Athletic’s Tamerra Griffin to unpack the lessons learned from a soggy night in Seattle, Wash., at Lumen Field, where Hayes made 11 changes to her starting XI. What did we learn about the USWNT’s depth and second-string lineup? How much pressure is on the third and final friendly against Japan?

PLUS: Producer Theo checks in from a momentous night at Wembley Stadium and England’s World Cup qualifier against Spain, as well as the latest on which teams have already qualified for the 2027 World Cup in Brazil.

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HOSTS: Jillian Sakovits, Tamerra Griffin

PRODUCER: Theo Lloyd-Hughes

VIDEO PRODUCER: Lia Griffin

EXECUTIVE PRODUCER: Emily Olsen

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Referenced on the show:

Emma Hayes’ tricky balancing act as USWNT strive for that ‘secret sauce’

England’s win over Spain proves small details, like set pieces, make all the difference

Spain need to be more Spanish to beat England

USWNT 2, Japan 1: Rose Lavelle scores in 100th start, Sophia Wilson returns

USWNT’s next test: Japan, champions of Asia, with a roster of international stars in the making