Huge blow for the USWNT as injured Jaedyn Shaw ruled out of Olympic opener with Zambia

The USWNT kicks off its tournament on Thursday, pursuing a record-extending fifth gold medal at the Games in France. However, it will have to start the campaign without the talented Jaedyn Shaw due to a leg injury.

Fortunately, the rules for this Olympics have changed with regards to rosters and the U.S. has been able to call one alternate up to the matchday squad in Shaw's absence, in order to still have 18 players available for the game with Zambia. Hayes has chosen Croix Bethune as that player on this occasion.

Bethune, of the Washington Spirit, has been in fine form in her rookie year and is just one assist away from equaling Tobin Heath's NWSL record for a single regular season.

After taking on Zambia, Hayes' side will face Germany on July 28 and then conclude the group stage with a match against Australia on July 31. The coach will hope to have Shaw back available for both fixtures.