Women's World Cup 2019: Abby Wambach defends USWNT after blowout win over Thailand

Ameer Tyree

Women's World Cup 2019: Abby Wambach defends USWNT after blowout win over Thailand image

Abby Wambach defended the actions of the USWNT on Tuesday following a 13-0 win over Thailand in the Women's World Cup.

The U.S. secured the largest margin of victory in the history of the tournament, but some criticized its relentless pursuit of goals and celebrations while holding a substantial lead. Wambach, a former star of the national team, responded to comments about the players' actions on Twitter.

"For all that have issue with many goals: for some players this is there first World Cup goal, and they should be excited," Wambach said. "Imagine it being you out there.This is your dream of playing and then scoring in a World Cup. Celebrate.Would you tell a men’s team to not score or celebrate?"

Wambach urged players to do their best at all times and called on FIFA to give more resources to countries that need it. She also questioned whether the men's national team would be under fire for a similar result.

Wambach, 39, sits atop the USWNT's all-time scoring list with 184 career goals. The 2015 World Cup champion retired in October of the same year.

Seven different players scored in the USWNT opening match against Thailand and Alex Morgan's five goals tied a USWNT record.

 

Ameer Tyree