MLS: Steven Gerrard and Frank Lampard go to “War” For Potentially the Last Time

MLS: Steven Gerrard and Frank Lampard go to “War” For Potentially the Last Time by Jerry Stephens

The National Women’s Soccer League had the largest contingent at the 2016 Rio Olympic Games and as the semifinals begin today they have another opportunity to continuing leaving an indelible mark on the world of soccer.

The Houston Dash with four have the most players of any NWSL organization still at the games. Twenty-one year old Janine Beckie, the leading scorer at the games and owner of the fastest goal in Olympic history, leads Canada against Germany in one semifinal. Houston Dash midfielder Andressa and defender Poliana along with Orlando defender Monica will take to the pitch for Brazil in the other semifinal against Sweden.

In addition to Beckie, Canada has eight other players who are members of NWSL clubs. Led by Portland Thorns forward Christine Sinclair and Washington Spirit keeper Stepahnie Labbe, the Canadian side also features defenders Allysha Chapman (Houston Dash), Josee Belanger (Orlando Pride), Shelina Zadorsky (Washington Spirit), midfielders Diana Matheson (Washington Spirit) Desiree Scott (FC Kansas City) and back up keeper Sabrina D’Angelo from the Western New York Flash.

Sinclair is the second all-time women’s international scoring leader while Labbe continues to shine after replacing long-time Canadian keeper and former Dash keeper Erin McLeod who suffered a third ACL injury playing for Swedish club team, FC Rosengard back in March.

On the other side of the semis, Andressa and Poliana lead a Brazilian side that is on the same mission as Canada. Andressa is a skillful, dynamic spark plug that has brought energy to the pitch whether in a starting role or off the bench for Brazil or the Houston Dash.

Poliana has long been a world class defender that brings an offensive caliber to the field as well. Monica of the NWSL’s Orlando Pride is the only player to feature in every minute at the Rio Games.

Between each of these nine players, the NWSL will leave a lasting mark on these games.