The Late Sub with Claire Watkins

Epizode

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  USWNT World Cup Roster DEBATE: The Players We Think Emma Hayes Picks ft. Ali Riley 23.07.2026 44min

  Ali Riley joins a special edition of the Late Sub to help Claire break down the biggest questions for the USWNT roster as we look WAAAAAAAAAAAY too far ahead to make some BOLD statements the potential World Cup roster. This episode is presented by Ally Bank, member FDIC Chapters 00:00 Introduction 01:50 Ali Riley Joins the Show 02:34 Initial Roster Thoughts 08:18 Forwards 22:17 Midfielders 29:19 Defenders 35:16 Goalkeepers Just Women’s Sports is the leading digital media platform dedicated exclusively to women’s sports. In a world where women’s sports have been historically underfunded and under-promoted, Just Women’s Sports exists to shine a light on all the stories, athletes and moments that define and fuel the space. Through original podcasts, premium video programming, social media, editorial content, a newsletter, and exclusive merchandise and live events, Just Women’s Sports is committed to making it both easy and fun to be a women’s sports fan. Add us on: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/justwomenssports/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/justwsports Tik Tok: https://www.tiktok.com/@justwomenssports?
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  Alexia Putellas, Mary Earps & Michele Kang's Big Bet on London City: Building a Women's Soccer Empire 16.07.2026 28min

  This week, Claire breaks down some of the biggest moves by Michelle Kang and she builds out her soccer empire across women’s soccer. Kang’s most recent signings are bringing the London City Lionesses looking like a European powerhouse, and Kang has shown her commitment to NWSL by making the same hard stances for the Washington Spirit, particularly resigning Trinity Rodman. This episode is presented by Ally Bank, member FDIC Chapters 00:00 Introduction 01:30 Alexia Putellas Signs with London City 06:00 Why Players Aren’t Going to the NWSL 10:52 Kang’s Soccer Empire 15:42 Building a Superteam 21:12 Should NWSL Fans Worry? Just Women’s Sports is the leading digital media platform dedicated exclusively to women’s sports. In a world where women’s sports have been historically underfunded and under-promoted, Just Women’s Sports exists to shine a light on all the stories, athletes and moments that define and fuel the space. Through original podcasts, premium video programming, social media, editorial content, a newsletter, and exclusive merchandise and live events, Just Women’s Sports is committed to making it both easy and fun to be a women’s sports fan. Add us on: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/justwomenssports/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/justwsports Tik Tok: https://www.tiktok.com/@justwomenssports?
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  Trinity Rodman Is UNSTOPPABLE… But Who Is the Best Team in the NWSL? | The Late Sub 09.07.2026 27min

  This week Claire digs into the teams sitting at the top of the NWSL table as the shield race heats up. Trinity Rodman is better than ever as Washington Spirit ride a win streak. Sophia Smith and Portland are cruising. KC is always in the mix with Temwa Chawinga. And how much can we make of Utah’s loss to Chicago. This episode is presented by Ally Bank, member FDIC Chapters 00:00 Introduction 02:59 Trinity Rodman’s Stoppage Time WINNER 07:31 San Diego Still Leading the Table 14:02 Portland Thorns are CRUISING 17:59 Kansas City Lurking 22:50 Utah’s Wacky Loss Just Women’s Sports is the leading digital media platform dedicated exclusively to women’s sports. In a world where women’s sports have been historically underfunded and under-promoted, Just Women’s Sports exists to shine a light on all the stories, athletes and moments that define and fuel the space. Through original podcasts, premium video programming, social media, editorial content, a newsletter, and exclusive merchandise and live events, Just Women’s Sports is committed to making it both easy and fun to be a women’s sports fan. Add us on: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/justwomenssports/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/justwsports Tik Tok: https://www.tiktok.com/@justwomenssports?
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  Breaking Down the BIGGEST NWSL Storylines: Sam Kerr, Lindsey Heaps & a HUGE MVP Surprise? 02.07.2026 27min

  This week Claire gets into all the biggest questions as the NWSL comes back from a very long break. How quickly can Sam Kerr make an impact with Gotham? Can Lindsey Heaps get Denver Summit into the playoff picture? Is MVP Barbara Banda’s to LOSE? Can Utah continue their dream run? And what does anyone make of Angel City after all their changes? Plus could there be a HUGE sleeper in the NWSL MVP conversation? You won’t believe it! This episode is presented by Ally Bank, member FDIC Chapters 00:00 Introduction 02:04 Is Sam Kerr the Missing Piece for Gotham? 04:58 Gotham’s Vice Grip on Defense 11:09 Can Lindsey Heaps Get Denver into the Playoffs 12:36 Outstanding Asset: Lindsey Heaps 16:22 Is Utah’s Dream Run Sustainable 20:14 Is MVP Barbara Banda’s to Lose? 24:33 Can Angel City Turn it Around? Just Women’s Sports is the leading digital media platform dedicated exclusively to women’s sports. In a world where women’s sports have been historically underfunded and under-promoted, Just Women’s Sports exists to shine a light on all the stories, athletes and moments that define and fuel the space. Through original podcasts, premium video programming, social media, editorial content, a newsletter, and exclusive merchandise and live events, Just Women’s Sports is committed to making it both easy and fun to be a women’s sports fan. Add us on: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/justwomenssports/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/justwsports Tik Tok: https://www.tiktok.com/@justwomenssports?
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  Grading EVERY NWSL Transfer: Sam Kerr, Ally Sentnor, Kennedy Fuller & MORE 25.06.2026 24min

  This week Claire digs into all the NWSL transfer window CHAOS, and grades each move! Sam Kerr reportedly ready to sign with Gotham, Kennedy Fuller to Bay, Ally Sentnor to Angel City, and ACFC Head Coach Alex Straus is OUT. This episode is presented by Ally Bank, member FDIC Chapters 00:00 Introduction 01:49 Sam Kerr to Gotham 03:51 How Does Kerr Fit? 09:37 Money Moves and Grading the Kerr Signing 13:20 Grading Reale to Boston 16:43 Angel City’s BIG Week 17:22 Grading Fuller to Bay 18:57 Straus Fired 20:41 Grading Sentnor to ACFC 23:10 KC Extend Chawinga Just Women’s Sports is the leading digital media platform dedicated exclusively to women’s sports. In a world where women’s sports have been historically underfunded and under-promoted, Just Women’s Sports exists to shine a light on all the stories, athletes and moments that define and fuel the space. Through original podcasts, premium video programming, social media, editorial content, a newsletter, and exclusive merchandise and live events, Just Women’s Sports is committed to making it both easy and fun to be a women’s sports fan. Add us on: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/justwomenssports/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/justwsports Tik Tok: https://www.tiktok.com/@justwomenssports?
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  Predicting EVERY Player on the USWNT 2027 World Cup Roster... WHO Was Left Off?? 18.06.2026 28min

  After a few illuminating USWNT matches against Brazil, Claire takes her first stab at predicting the USWNT 2027 World Cup roster.The one questions that looms large, can Catarina Macario get healthy in time to snag a spot on the forward?This episode is presented by Ally Bank, Member FDIC.Challenge Cup Trivia - https://www.eventbrite.com/e/just-womens-sports-trivia-night-presented-by-ally-tickets-1987615192546?aff=youtubeTLSChapters00:00 Introduction01:30 Predicting the World Cup Roster04:47 The Keepers08:42 Center Backs11:20 Outside Backs15:25 Midfielders20:17 Forwards Just Women’s Sports is the leading digital media platform dedicated exclusively to women’s sports. In a world where women’s sports have been historically underfunded and under-promoted, Just Women’s Sports exists to shine a light on all the stories, athletes and moments that define and fuel the space. Through original podcasts, premium video programming, social media, editorial content, a newsletter, and exclusive merchandise and live events, Just Women’s Sports is committed to making it both easy and fun to be a women’s sports fan. Add us on: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/justwomenssports/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/justwsports Tik Tok: https://www.tiktok.com/@justwomenssports?
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  Breaking Down EVERY Moment of Chaos in USWNT vs Brazil | 8 Red Cards! | The Late Sub 11.06.2026 31min

  Claire breaks down the aftermath of a CHAOTIC couple of friendlies between the USWNT and Brazil. Games that saw more cards than a round of poker. Plus we’ll take a look at the roster and what these games tell us about who’s ready for the World Cup in 2027. This episode is presented by Ally Bank, Member FDIC. Challenge Cup Trivia - https://www.eventbrite.com/e/just-womens-sports-trivia-night-presented-by-ally-tickets-1987615192546?aff=youtubeTLS Chapters 00:00 Introduction 01:49 Tense Atmosphere 3:10 8 Red Cards for Brazil 3:51 4 Referee Controversy 07:26 Brazil Player PHYSICAL 09:41 USWNT Game 2 Plan 12:22 USWNT Handled the Pressure 13:24 Sophia Wilson Not Missing a BEAT 17:26 Smart Play: Michelle Cooper 21:25 Cooper Got Away with a Card… 23:29 Convoluted Midfield 29:29 Looking Ahead
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  NWSL SHOCKERS: Sophia Wilson, Utah Royals, Tierna Davidson & MORE | Plus MVP & Rookie of the Year WATCH 04.06.2026 27min

  As the NWSL heads into the June break, Claire takes a look at some of the biggest surprises around the league. Utah is looking legit, Gotham’s low margin soccer keeps the Bats winning, Houston & Angel City are in free fall. Plus we take a look at the rookie landscape and frontrunners for this season’s MVP are some familiar names. This episode is presented by Ally Bank, Member FDIC. Challenge Cup Trivia - https://www.eventbrite.com/e/just-womens-sports-trivia-night-presented-by-ally-tickets-1987615192546?aff=youtubeTLS Chapters 00:00 Introduction 04:09 2nd Place Utah Royals 09:41 Gotham Not Giving Up Goals 12:57 Portland’s Surprising Defense 15:45 Rookie of the Year Watch 20:40 MVP Watch Just Women’s Sports is the leading digital media platform dedicated exclusively to women’s sports. In a world where women’s sports have been historically underfunded and under-promoted, Just Women’s Sports exists to shine a light on all the stories, athletes and moments that define and fuel the space. Through original podcasts, premium video programming, social media, editorial content, a newsletter, and exclusive merchandise and live events, Just Women’s Sports is committed to making it both easy and fun to be a women’s sports fan. Add us on: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/justwomenssports/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/justwsports Tik Tok: https://www.tiktok.com/@justwomenssports?
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  Breaking Down the Biggest SNUBS & SURPRISES on the USWNT June Roster Drop | Plus What Does Ashley Sanchez Have to Do? 28.05.2026 27min

  Emma Hayes dropped a fresh USWNT roster ahead of the team’s friendlies against Brazil. Claire breaks down every position, including some surprises and snubs. Plus why can’t Ashley Sanchez earn a call up despite an MVP caliber NWSL season? This episode is presented by Ally Bank, Member FDIC. Chapters 00:00 Introduction 02:30 USWNT Injured Players 04:13 Triple Espresso is BACK 06:55 Forwards 08:21 Midfielders 10:25 Midfield Surprises 11:14 Spend & Save: Riley Jackson 14:59 Snub: Ashley Sanchez? 20:21 Center Backs 22:48 Outside Backs 24:21 Goalkeepers Just Women’s Sports is the leading digital media platform dedicated exclusively to women’s sports. In a world where women’s sports have been historically underfunded and under-promoted, Just Women’s Sports exists to shine a light on all the stories, athletes and moments that define and fuel the space. Through original podcasts, premium video programming, social media, editorial content, a newsletter, and exclusive merchandise and live events, Just Women’s Sports is committed to making it both easy and fun to be a women’s sports fan. Add us on: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/justwomenssports/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/justwsports Tik Tok: https://www.tiktok.com/@justwomenssports?
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  “She Won’t Be the Same Player” | Can Mallory Swanson Still Be an ELITE Player Post Pregnancy 21.05.2026 23min

  This week Claire takes a deep dive into the return of Chicago’s Mallory Swanson. The evolution of her game, how much does being on a struggling Chicago team impact her chances for the USWNT roster, and what’s Chicago’s SMART PLAY for getting her back to full form? This episode is presented by Ally Bank, member FDIC Chapters 00:00 Introduction 01:46 Returning from Pregnancy 04:29 The Evolution of Mal Swanson 06:43 Differences Between Mal & Sophia 08:26 USWNT Players on BAD Teams 11:26 Will Chicago Hurt Mal’s USWNT Chances 17:37 Chicago’s SMART PLAY 20:14 Will Swanson Get Called Up for June Friendlies? Just Women’s Sports is the leading digital media platform dedicated exclusively to women’s sports. In a world where women’s sports have been historically underfunded and under-promoted, Just Women’s Sports exists to shine a light on all the stories, athletes and moments that define and fuel the space. Through original podcasts, premium video programming, social media, editorial content, a newsletter, and exclusive merchandise and live events, Just Women’s Sports is committed to making it both easy and fun to be a women’s sports fan. Add us on: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/justwomenssports/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/justwsports Tik Tok: https://www.tiktok.com/@justwomenssports?
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  USWNT World Cup Roster WATCH: Who Impressed, Who Disappointed, & Who She Didn't See AT ALL on Emma Hayes NWSL Tour 14.05.2026 24min

  Claire breaks down Emma Hayes's tour across the NWSL. Who she saw exceed expectations, who shrunk under the spotlight, and who she didn't bother to see at all. With an eye toward 2027, Emma Hayes has her sights on the USWNT pool of NWSL talent. This episode is presented by Ally Bank, member FDIC Chapters 00:00 Introduction 02:38 Who Did Emma Hayes Watch? 04:55 Who Emma SKIPPED 07:13 Beyond 2027 10:20 Who IMPRESSED 15:47 Who DISAPPOINTED 19:01 Emma Hayes Spend & Save Just Women’s Sports is the leading digital media platform dedicated exclusively to women’s sports. In a world where women’s sports have been historically underfunded and under-promoted, Just Women’s Sports exists to shine a light on all the stories, athletes and moments that define and fuel the space. Through original podcasts, premium video programming, social media, editorial content, a newsletter, and exclusive merchandise and live events, Just Women’s Sports is committed to making it both easy and fun to be a women’s sports fan. Add us on: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/justwomenssports/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/justwsports Tik Tok: https://www.tiktok.com/@justwomenssports?
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  Ranking EVERY NWSL MVP Candidate | Barbra Banda, Trinity Rodman, Rose Lavelle & MORE | Plus Rookie of the Year Favorites 07.05.2026 22min

  Claire breaks down the NWSL MVP race with Orlando's Barbra Banda leading the way. If the race ended today, she's taking it. A WILD golden boot race with Ashley Sanchez, Olivia Moultrie keeping Portland at the top of the table, and Rose Lavelle Leading Gotham. Plus NWSL Rookie of the Year watch! This episode is presented by Ally Bank, member FDIC Chapters 00:00 Introduction 04:14 Barbra Banda 06:05 Olivia Moultrie 07:58 Rose Lavelle 09:52 Ashley Sanchez 12:25 Trinity Rodmans 12:47 Dudinha 14:16 Taylor Flint 18:29 Rookie of the Year Watch Just Women’s Sports is the leading digital media platform dedicated exclusively to women’s sports. In a world where women’s sports have been historically underfunded and under-promoted, Just Women’s Sports exists to shine a light on all the stories, athletes and moments that define and fuel the space. Through original podcasts, premium video programming, social media, editorial content, a newsletter, and exclusive merchandise and live events, Just Women’s Sports is committed to making it both easy and fun to be a women’s sports fan. Add us on: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/justwomenssports/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/justwsports Tik Tok: https://www.tiktok.com/@justwomenssports?
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  Lindsey Heaps Makes Denver Summit Contenders | Plus $205 Million Columbus Expansion Team for the NWSL 2028 30.04.2026 24min

  In this week's episode of The Late Sub Claire breaks down the difficulties of being an expansion team, how Summit is headed in the right direction and why Lindsey Heaps can get them over the hump. Plus Columbus's $205 Million NWSL expansion team. Just Women’s Sports is the leading digital media platform dedicated exclusively to women’s sports. In a world where women’s sports have been historically underfunded and under-promoted, Just Women’s Sports exists to shine a light on all the stories, athletes and moments that define and fuel the space. Through original podcasts, premium video programming, social media, editorial content, a newsletter, and exclusive merchandise and live events, Just Women’s Sports is committed to making it both easy and fun to be a women’s sports fan. Add us on: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/justwomenssports/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/justwsports Tik Tok: https://www.tiktok.com/@justwomenssports?
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  The USWNT Doesn't Have Time For Trinity Rodman to Find Her Form Before the World Cup 23.04.2026 23min

  Presented by Ally Bank, Member FDIC Claire dives into the evolution of Trinity Rodman's game, and the growing pains that come along with it. The million dollar question is will she find her form for the USWNT and Spirit sooner than later? Just Women’s Sports is the leading digital media platform dedicated exclusively to women’s sports. In a world where women’s sports have been historically underfunded and under-promoted, Just Women’s Sports exists to shine a light on all the stories, athletes and moments that define and fuel the space. Through original podcasts, premium video programming, social media, editorial content, a newsletter, and exclusive merchandise and live events, Just Women’s Sports is committed to making it both easy and fun to be a women’s sports fan. Add us on: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/justwomenssports/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/justwsports Tik Tok: https://www.tiktok.com/@justwomenssports?
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  Breaking Down EVERYTHING that Went WRONG in the USWNT's Loss to Japan | The Late Sub 16.04.2026 27min

  Just Women’s Sports is the leading digital media platform dedicated exclusively to women’s sports. In a world where women’s sports have been historically underfunded and under-promoted, Just Women’s Sports exists to shine a light on all the stories, athletes and moments that define and fuel the space. Through original podcasts, premium video programming, social media, editorial content, a newsletter, and exclusive merchandise and live events, Just Women’s Sports is committed to making it both easy and fun to be a women’s sports fan. Add us on: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/justwomenssports/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/justwsports Tik Tok: https://www.tiktok.com/@justwomenssports?
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  EVERYTHING That’s Gone WRONG For Gotham & Why the NWSL's Reigning Champs Can't Score | Plus the Surprising Houston Dash 09.04.2026 24min

  Two of the biggest surprises this season have been Gotham & Houston. One has shocked the NWSL by soaring up the table, while the bats are underperforming as reigning champs. Just Women’s Sports is the leading digital media platform dedicated exclusively to women’s sports. In a world where women’s sports have been historically underfunded and under-promoted, Just Women’s Sports exists to shine a light on all the stories, athletes and moments that define and fuel the space. Through original podcasts, premium video programming, social media, editorial content, a newsletter, and exclusive merchandise and live events, Just Women’s Sports is committed to making it both easy and fun to be a women’s sports fan. Add us on: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/justwomenssports/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/justwsports Tik Tok: https://www.tiktok.com/@justwomenssports?
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  Breaking Down EVERY Position in the USWNT Roster Release 02.04.2026 24min

  In this weeks episode, Claire breaks down every position group in the USWNT roster release for their 3 game friendly matchup against Japan. Sophia Wilson and Tierna Davidson make their returns. Can Olivia Moultrie take her success with the Thorns to the National Team in a crowded midfield. Plus finding depth at outside back. Subscribe to The Late Sub to never miss an episode. Follow Claire on Twitter/X (@scoutripley) and sign up for the Just Women’s Sports newsletter at justwomenssports.com/newsletter/ Chapters: 00:00 Intro 04:40 Forwards 09:11 Midfielders 14:38 Center Backs 17:35 Outside Backs 20:27 Goalkeepers Just Women’s Sports is the leading digital media platform dedicated exclusively to women’s sports. In a world where women’s sports have been historically underfunded and under-promoted, Just Women’s Sports exists to shine a light on all the stories, athletes and moments that define and fuel the space. Through original podcasts, premium video programming, social media, editorial content, a newsletter, and exclusive merchandise and live events, Just Women’s Sports is committed to making it both easy and fun to be a women’s sports fan. Add us on: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/justwomenssports/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/justwsports Tik Tok: https://www.tiktok.com/@justwomenssports?
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  Three takeaways from a chaotic NWSL start 25.03.2026 18min

  In this weeks episode, Claire breaks down three of the NWSL weekend’s trends as the chaos begins in earnest, including red cards galore, talent evaluation, and Angel City’s deepest roster yet.
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  Catarina Macario shows tide turning in NWSL 18.03.2026 22min

  In this weeks episode, Claire breaks down the big picture of Catarina Macario’s impending debut in the NWSL, in the context of last years USWNT exodus turning into a more balanced season upon which a lot of US decisions will be made about the rising stars of the NWSL. 
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  Who’s ACTUALLY going to be good in the NWSL this season 10.03.2026 26min

  The NWSL season has arrived and we've got everything you need to know on this week’s episode of The Late Sub. Who’s improved, what can fans expect on the field, and who's ultimately competing for a title in 2026.