u/friedemw

Gaetino is actually already 23, but relaxed rules for five players this time around.

I have been impressed with Eva Gaetino’s play recently. 2½ games since she returned from injury is not a large sample. But she’s been a rock on defense, winning nearly every ball. Her height helps her dominate in the air, but she’s been equally effective on the ground. The only knock against her was the goal by Aissata Traoré, whom she was marking at the time.  My assessment is that Traoré made a wonderful play, and there’s no defender who could have prevented that goal.

What impresses me most are Gaetino’s progressive passes. There is nobody in the world who executes better progressive passes than she does. I think the only equal to Gaetino are Tierna Davidson, Naomi Girma, Leah Williamson with Arsenal, or Mapi Leon with Barca regarding progressive passes. Eva consistently breaks lines.

Here’s my point: I think Eva Gaetino should be considered for the USWNT for qualifying matches in 2026 and for the FIFA World Cup in 2027. Eva can play left or right, but right side is probably her stronger side.

The contenders for right-side central defender are Naomi Girma (she’s #1), Jordan Bugg (19 yo and this might be too soon for her), Emily Sams (does not seem to be valued by Hayes), Kennedy Wesley (seems to be preferred by Hayes as a left-sided central defender, but plays on the right for her club).

Other central defenders: Tierna Davidson (exclusively left side) and Tara Rudd. There’s also the veteran Emily Sonnet.

Assuming Hayes is looking for a right-sided central defender, here’s my depth chart:

Naomi Girma

Emily Sonnet

Tara Rudd or Eva Gaetino or Kennedy Wesley

Jordan Bugg

Emily Sams

My guess is Girma and Sonnet are locks. Sonnet would be selected even if she’s not a starter. Davidson plays on the left.

Does this mean there is one more spot on central defense? If so, I’d pick Gaetino over Rudd and Wesley

Eva got her most recent chance in October 2025 under Hayes and had zero defensive duties in that game vs New Zealand. But even in that game she showed her exceptional passing range.

Am I delusional?