Carli Lloyd hails 'gritty' USWNT after Gold Cup triumph & singles out Lindsey Horan for 'stepping up in a way I haven't seen' - but also issues strange Emma Hayes warning

Lloyd was among the United States’ fiercest critics as they surrendered their World Cup crown in 2023 with a whimper. They are now back on the trophy trail, with a 1-0 victory over Brazil ensuring that they savoured continental glory in 2024.

Former USWNT star Lloyd, who has 316 caps to her name, has posted on social media of seeing a winning habit return: “Congrats @USWNT! Bounced back after the [Mexico] loss, responded well, and found gritty ways to win after that... a good start!”

She added on talismanic captain Lindsey Horan, who netted the only goal of the game in a final showdown with Brazil: “Best I've seen her step up in a way I haven't seen from her. Ceiling is high and a great leader! It helps playing the 10 position. Best suited there.”

The USWNT are currently working under interim coach Twila Kilgore, but Lloyd found a way to work Chelsea boss Hayes into her assessment of the present and future. She said: “Always work to be done. Emma hasn't even been able to implement a lot of tactical changes. It was mentality and confidence that this team gained this tourney. If there was no mentality they don't win. Need to be able to have many tools and adapt on the day.”

Hayes will take the reins once the 2023-24 season comes to a close in England, with the charismatic 47-year-old set to lead the USWNT into a bid for gold medal glory at the Olympic Games in Paris.