Gold is Still the Goal

By now you probably already know: Abby's out. Yesterday, in the 85th minute, Carli Lloyd connected with Natasha Kai off a set piece to give the Americans the lone goal in a friendly versus Brazil, the last tune up before Beijing. For supporters of American soccer, though, the win was a mere afterthought. Fifty-four minutes before Kai's game-winner, Abby collided with a Brazilian defender and fractured her tibia and fibula. That means at least twelve weeks on the sidelines and then a period of intense rehabilitation. It's a terrible blow for the U.S. and a massive setback for Abby.

But for the US WNT, it's not the end. To describe someone with 99 career goals in 127 games as "integral" is an understatement sure, but statistics don't reveal all the intangibles Abby has already shared with her teammates - intangibles that can't be carted off the field or put in a cast. You better believe that the leadership and experience and raw athletic courage Abby brought every time she put on the red, white and blue will still be there come August 6th. Now it's up to Tash and Carli and Tarp and everyone else on the WNT to step up. More than ever before, it's time for this special group to take their game to the next level.

Also, if there's one major reason for solace, it's the fact that for the past year the WNT coaching staff has tried to redefine the team's tactical style. No more sheer physicality and reliance on free-kicks. These players have shown recently that they can score without a big target striker. They have the talent to hold the ball, to possess and build and, let's hope, to finish the chances they consistently create. Abby might be gone, but gold is still the goal.

In the meantime, send Abby your wishes for a speedy recovery. After everything she's given us, she deserves all the support we can give her. Our thoughts are with you Abby. Get well soon!