Utah Royals GK Mandy Haught reflects on her USWNT debut after 3-0 friendly win
The 25-year-old former U.S. youth international had a quiet night in the Americans’ friendly win, amassing just 11 touches in 90 minutes with a 100% pass completion rate.
Mandy Haught was testing herself when asked to think about “the best thing” of USWNT national training camp ahead of her senior international debut during a 3-0 win over Argentina at Lynn Family Stadium in Louisville, Kentucky.
“I had to think long and hard because I’ve only been here for like four days,” she said with her trademark laugh that has made the Utah Royals FC starter a fan favorite in her short time on the Wasatch Front.
In the end, the decision was easy.
“It’s not even my cap,” she told US Soccer. “It’s not even getting called into this camp. It’s just witnessing greatness, seeing everyone succeed, seeing this team succeed, and being part of Mal (Pugh)’s 100, Rose (Lavelle)’s 100; it’s just so special to see how this team feels, and the love that they have for each other. It’s truly incredible to be a part of.
“Celebrating everyone has been the highlight of my camp, for sure.”
The 25-year-old former U.S. youth international had a quiet night in the Americans’ friendly win, amassing just 11 touches in 90 minutes with a 100% pass completion rate. She made just one save, a simple gesture on a long-range short four minutes in as she slid into a formation behind Naomi Girma — one of the goal scorers who plays for San Diego Wave in NWSL — and fellow Debutant Alyssa Malonson of Bay FC.
But Wednesday’s cap was a long time coming for Haught, a celebration as much for the injury replacement who stepped into Emma Hayes’ setup to replace an injured Jane Campbell as much as the slightly more historic milestones of her more established teammates.
Haught represented the United States at the 2018 FIFA U-20 Women’s World Cup, and logged 10 caps with the U-20s in all. She also played for the United States on the U-18 level.
But Wednesday’s debut was a different experience for Haught, who reminded herself to savor every moment of it.
“It was super surreal, just being able to step on the field with such amazing players,” she said. “I’ve looked up to this team for so long, and being able to share a room, share a locker room, listen to everyone’s stories and see how this team feels has been incredible.
“To see how loved this team is on the field is truly special. I felt so grateful and so honored to be on that pitch tonight.”
Haught will be back in Utah in time for the Royals’ season finale Friday against reigning NWSL champions Gotham FC. Kickoff is scheduled for 7:30 p.m. MT in Sandy.