Canada announced its official Olympic women’s national team (CanWNT) on Monday, becoming the fourth team in the 12-squad tournament to lock in their 18-player lineup ahead of Wednesday’s deadline.
The only country to make the last three Olympic podiums, all but four players named to the reigning Olympic gold medalists’ roster have previous Olympic experience. Portland Thorns midfielder Jessie Fleming will lead this year’s team as captain.
Last summer was a disappointing one for Canada, punctuated by a record-early World Cup exit. In what amounted to a tumultuous year, head coach Bev Priestman’s squad also faced off-pitch labor disputes as well as all-time leading international goal scorer Christine Sinclair’s retirement from international soccer.
“I believe we have a squad that blends experience and youth, is positionally balanced, and possesses incredible athleticism and football talent,” coach Bev Priestman said in a statement.
On Tuesday, Brazil became the latest national soccer team to release its 18-player Olympic roster.
The lineup features several familiar faces, including NWSL stars Tarciane (Houston Dash), Rafaelle (Orlando Pride), Adriana (Orlando Pride), Kerolin (NC…
