FIFA Women's World Cup: USA Coach Vlatko Andonovski Resigns After Forgettable Campaign; Twila Kilgore Named Interim Replacement
Vlatko Andonovski Resigns: Twila Kilgore has been appointed as the head coach of US Women's National football team on an interim basis.
Following US Women's National football team's forgettable outing at the FIFA Women's World Cup 2023, their coach Vlatko Andonovski has rendered his resignation. US Soccer formally announced Andonovski's resignation on Thursday (August 17) while also announcing Twila Kilgore as the interim coach. It is pertinent to note that Kilgore who happens to be the first American-born woman to get the US Soccer's top-level Pro License, was an assistant under Andonovski. She will be the head coach until a permanent replacement for that role is found.
It is pertinent to note that Andonovski’s resignation within a fortnight of United States quickest ever exit from the World Cup. While they had did manage to start of their campaign with a win against Vietnam, they just about made it to the knock stage of the tournament after playing out draws against Vietnam and Portugal.
The Americans were up against Sweden in their Round of 16 but eventually lost on penalties after a match which had remained goalless in 90 minutes plus extra time. The result was shocking as US managed just four goals in their campaign and their worst ever finish in this stage was a third place finish before they bowed out in this year's tournament.
“It’s been the honor of my life to coach the talented, hard-working players of the USWNT for the past four years. I’m very optimistic for the future of this program, especially considering all the young players that got opportunities over the past few years who will no doubt be leaders and impact players moving forward," Andonovski said in a statement.
"While we are all disappointed by the outcome at this year’s World Cup, I am immensely proud of the progress this team has made, the support they’ve shown for each other, and the inspiration they’ve provided for players around the world. I will be forever thankful to the US Soccer Federation for giving me the chance to coach this remarkable team," he added.
Meanwhile, US Soccer Sporting Director Matt Crocker will lead the administrative body's hunt for a permanent head coach.
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