October 8 – US women’s superstar Megan Rapinoe, the public face of the world champions, says tonight’s showpiece friendly against European champions England serves as a “nice distraction” following the much-publicised inquiry that uncovered “systemic” abuse and misconduct in the US domestic league.
The findings of the inquiry, led by former acting Attorney General Sally Yates, left US players “angry and exhausted” after revealing the National Women’s Soccer League (NWSL) under the US Soccer Federation (USSF) failed to provide a safe environment.
US and England players will unite by wearing armbands at Wembley “to stand in solidarity with sexual abuse victims”.
Speaking at a pre-match press conference, Rapinoe said: “We’re really excited to play and that’s a nice distraction. This is an incredible game, an incredible moment, that sits nicely with this horrific thing.”
US Soccer said it would move immediately to implement reforms following the release of the findings which following an investigation last year after allegations were made against North Carolina Courage’s English head coach Paul Riley, who was sacked.
Riley, who has coached women’s teams since 2006, has denied the accusations.
“It’s horrifying. Even when you know it, it’s just horrifying over and over to read,” said Rapinoe, who added women’s football is “already in a better place” than it was the day before the report was released.
“We’re angry, and exhausted, and together, and unified. It’s really sad to say, but in a way, we’re used to having to deal with one thing or another. It seems to bring us closer and definitely unify the team.”
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