The Offside Rule: Women's World Cup Edition The Offside Rule: Women's World Cup Edition

Reliving the glorious Women’s World Cup 2019

I don’t remember listening to your fabulous podcast at the time; I’ve so enjoyed revelling in every moment of the thrilling 2019 Women's World Cup. The world of women’s football has been transformed so dramatically since this landmark moment: televised games; the rise of professional clubs around the world; exciting, entertaining football available on multiple platforms; the progression of semi-pro teams like Northern Ireland qualifying for the Euros; Canada finally win Olympic gold (with no goals from run of play, of course); USA defeat the Dutch again (in penalty kicks) and barely defeat the Matilidas (with great sportsmanship consoling on the pitch after) to win first bronze; Sweden win another silver. Most amazing: the rise of Spain and dominance of Barcelona who play the beautiful game at another level like poetry in motion. USA may still claim #1 in FIFA rankings, but we all know that Spain (essentially Barcelona) will be favourites in the up-coming Euros and World Cup finals. Might be fun to predict the other finalist team(s). When we’re back in France for the 2024 Olympics though, anything can happen. Probably too soon for Casey Stoney to be managing the USWNT, but some like minded genius football manager (Emma Hayes) will have raised the bar and figured out how to counter Spain. So much to look forward to.

Thank you for a wonderful WWC podcast. Amazing music!!! Please reprieve your excellent reporting at the Euros this summer. Can’t wait.