There are only a few months between the World Cup. The United States men will be looking to take a step and have their best finish in their history. Despite their home momentum, the men do not have many performances to look back on in past World Cups that can lead to victory.
However, the women's national team has had several players and performances in their history that could be an inspiration for the men moving into the summer. One is a dynamic offensive weapon.
Tobin Heath has two World Cup championships to her name, and her play was as creative as it was dynamic throughout her time on the national team. She was known for incredible possession handling skills throughout her international career.
Heath is the type of player that the men should look to model their games after as they get ready for the World Cup. One performance for Heath stands out during her career.
Tobin Heath was named player of the match in the World Cup game against Sweden in 2019
In the final game of the group stage that year, Heath was awarded a trophy and named player of the match for her "tireless play". It was in this game that her ability to handle the ball was on full display.
In the 50th minute, Heath dribbled to a shot. She then drilled the ball to where Sweden couldn't counter, finding the net. It helped close out the game, helping the US win 2-0. They would go on to take the World Cup a few weeks later.
For the men, they need to be able to look at their talent pool and find the right mixture and the players, who like Heath can find ways to score even if it seems impossible. Confidence in who is taking the shot will do wonders for the men.
Heath had 36 career goals while representing the United States. It was an impressive career and one that outshines many men on the other end due to her coming through what it mattered most.
But the men have a chance this year, with the tournament in North America, to plant their own legacy and flag. Overcoming long odds and past disappointments can help them look forward.
In 2011, Heath missed a penalty kick against Japan in the final match. The United States would go on to lose the game. But she came back four years later to have a goal in the final match against Japan. That brought her another World Cup for the United States.
With 2019 following, Heath cemented her legacy. Now the men have that very chance and should look to Heath as an example.
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