The rising stars set to explode at this World Cup

 Six players to watch in the Women's World Cup. 

Sophia Smith is the reigning MVP in the National Women’s Soccer League, where she plays for the Portland Thorns. Pic: Thearon W. Henderson/Getty Images

SOPHIA SMITH (United States) 

US coach Vlatko Andonovski has focused on developing young talent in preparation for the Women’s World Cup. The best among them is Smith, a 22-year-old forward who was named the US Soccer Female Player of the Year after scoring 11 goals and starting 17 matches — both team highs — in 2022. She was the youngest player to win the award since Mia Hamm, also at 22, did in 1994, which says plenty about Smith’s quality. Smith is also the reigning MVP in the National Women’s Soccer League, where she plays for the Portland Thorns.