USWNT stars return from shock World Cup exit with impressive performances in NWSL; Sophia Smith hits winner

The National Women’s Soccer League regular reason is back with a bang as several international players made their return from the 2023 FIFA Women’s World Cup. The league played Challenge Cup matches during the international tournament, but the regular season took a brief pause. The league had 61 players representing their respective nations at the World Cup, with 22 U.S. women’s national team members. The USWNT bowed out of the tournament in the round of 16 and some players wasted no time in making an impact over week 16 action in the league.