CHESTER, Pa. - As the United States and Spain face off at Subaru Park, Emma Hayes reflects on a significant moment in women's soccer—two women managing the top-ranked teams. Sonia Bermúdez leads Spain while Hayes oversees the USWNT, marking a pivotal moment that highlights the need for greater female representation in coaching.

Hayes, a trailblazer in women's soccer coaching, began her journey with the Long Island Lady Riders and built a successful career with Chelsea's Women's Super League team. Now managing the USWNT on its path to the 2027 FIFA Women's World Cup in Brazil, she emphasizes the challenges women face in the coaching realm.

"I've made no secret of the fact that it's really difficult for females in this space to, one, get an interview, two, get a job, and three, stay in a job," Hayes stated.

She pointed out the disparity in opportunities for women compared to their male counterparts, noting that once women leave a coaching position, they rarely receive another chance.

Hayes applauds fellow coaches like Sarina Wiegman and Sonia Bompastor but urges for more female head coaches in national teams, advocating for mandatory female representation in technical roles.

Currently, 11 of the 16 NWSL teams are led by male coaches, emphasizing the need for structural change. Hayes argues that the sport's governing bodies must invest more in women to foster future leaders in coaching, ensuring that talented individuals like her can emerge and thrive in the soccer landscape.

Raising awareness and pushing for these changes is essential as Hayes continues her mission to create more opportunities for women in soccer.