The Late Sub with Claire Watkins brings you the latest news and freshest takes on all things USWNT, NWSL and whatever else is popping off in women's soccer each week. Special guest appearances with the biggest names in women’s sports make The Late Sub a must-listen for every soccer fan.
You can find The Late Sub wherever you get your podcasts. Follow Claire on X/Twitter @ScoutRipley and subscribe to the Just Women’s Sports newsletter for more.
Site
RSS
Apple
Data updated on 06/11/2026
Recent rankings
Latest chart positions across Apple Podcasts and Spotify rankings.
Shared links between episodes and podcasts
Links found in episode descriptions and other podcasts that share them.
Details about The Late Sub with Claire Watkins, a podcast by Just Women’s Sports
Ranking All 4 NWSL Playoff Matchups: Which Teams Are in Trouble? | The Late Sub
Thursday, November 5, 2026 • Duration 29:01
The 2026 NWSL Playoffs are HERE! Claire breaks down all four NWSL quarterfinal matchups, ranking them from most to least competitive and predicting who will advance. Can Angel City's 10-game unbeaten streak survive a trip to Kansas City? Will Sophia Wilson and the Portland Thorns pull off an upset against Trinity Rodman and the Washington Spirit? And can Gotham FC overcome another injury setback to keep their championship hopes alive?
Plus, Claire dives into the tactical battles, key players, and injury concerns that could decide each matchup. With the San Diego Wave surging, the Seattle Reign fighting to extend Jess Fishlock's career, and eight teams battling for a spot in the semifinals, who has what it takes to make a run at the NWSL Championship?
This episode is presented by Ally Bank, member FDIC.
Chapters:
00:00 Intro
02:43 Kansas City Current vs. Angel City FC
11:00 Washington Spirit vs. Portland Thorns
17:56 Gotham FC vs. Seattle Reign
24:16 San Diego Wave vs. Utah Royals
Just Women’s Sports is the leading digital media platform dedicated exclusively to women’s sports. In a world where women’s sports have been historically underfunded and under-promoted, Just Women’s Sports exists to shine a light on all the stories, athletes and moments that define and fuel the space. Through original podcasts, premium video programming, social media, editorial content, a newsletter, and exclusive merchandise and live events, Just Women’s Sports is committed to making it both easy and fun to be a women’s sports fan.
Add us on:
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/justwomenssports/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/justwsports
Tik Tok: https://www.tiktok.com/@justwomenssports?
NWSL Decision Day: Who's In, Who's Out, Who Wins the Shield? | The Late Sub
Thursday, October 29, 2026 • Duration 29:26
NWSL Decision Day is HERE, and the Shield, playoff seeding, and final postseason spot are all on the line! Claire Watkins ranks all eight NWSL matchups from least to most dramatic, breaking down the biggest stakes, potential upsets, and must-watch games ahead of Sunday's regular season finale.
Can Gotham FC hold off San Diego Wave to claim the NWSL Shield? Seattle Reign controls its playoff destiny, but Ashley Sanchez and North Carolina Courage are ready to battle Denver Summit for the final postseason spot. Plus, Angel City FC looks to keep its unbeaten streak alive, Kansas City Current fights for a home playoff game, and Utah Royals could spoil Gotham's Shield dreams.
This episode is presented by Ally Bank, member FDIC.
Chapters:
0:00 NWSL Decision Day Preview
2:40 Washington Spirit vs. Chicago Stars
6:08 Kansas City Current vs. Racing Louisville
8:36 Portland Thorns vs. Houston Dash
11:51 Angel City FC vs. Boston Legacy
16:33 Seattle Reign vs. Orlando Pride
19:58 San Diego Wave vs. Bay FC
22:20 North Carolina Courage vs. Denver Summit
25:49 Gotham FC vs. Utah Royals
Just Women’s Sports is the leading digital media platform dedicated exclusively to women’s sports. In a world where women’s sports have been historically underfunded and under-promoted, Just Women’s Sports exists to shine a light on all the stories, athletes and moments that define and fuel the space. Through original podcasts, premium video programming, social media, editorial content, a newsletter, and exclusive merchandise and live events, Just Women’s Sports is committed to making it both easy and fun to be a women’s sports fan.
Add us on:
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/justwomenssports/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/justwsports
Tik Tok: https://www.tiktok.com/@justwomenssports?
Jordynn Dudley, Mimi van Zanten & MORE Battle for Rookie of the Year HEATS UP | The Late Sub
Monday, October 26, 2026 • Duration 22:42
Claire breaks down her top five NWSL Rookie of the Year candidates as the 2026 regular season comes to a close! San Diego Wave's Lia Godfrey and Mimi van Zanten have emerged as two of the league's brightest young stars, while Houston Dash's Kat Rader is making a serious case for the award with 10 goals this season.
Plus, Jordan Dudley's season-ending injury could have major implications for Gotham FC's Shield hopes, and Angel City's Taylor Suarez is making a late push into the Rookie of the Year conversation.
Who deserves to take home NWSL Rookie of the Year?
This episode is presented by Ally Bank, member FDIC.
Chapters
00:00 Introduction
00:38 The Rookie of the Year Race
03:53 Leah Godfrey's Breakout Season
06:47 Mimi van Zanten's Dominance
09:19 Ally Outstanding Asset
11:32 Ally Bank
12:03 Kat Rader's Incredible Rookie Season
15:06 Jordan Dudley's Gotham Impact
18:19 Taylor Suarez's Late Surge
20:48 Who Deserves Rookie of the Year?
Just Women’s Sports is the leading digital media platform dedicated exclusively to women’s sports. In a world where women’s sports have been historically underfunded and under-promoted, Just Women’s Sports exists to shine a light on all the stories, athletes and moments that define and fuel the space. Through original podcasts, premium video programming, social media, editorial content, a newsletter, and exclusive merchandise and live events, Just Women’s Sports is committed to making it both easy and fun to be a women’s sports fan.
Add us on:
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/justwomenssports/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/justwsports
Tik Tok: https://www.tiktok.com/@justwomenssports?
Gotham FC's Biggest Weakness Has Been EXPOSED! Can San Diego & Spirit Take Advantage?
Thursday, October 22, 2026 • Duration 33:07
The NWSL Shield race is coming down to the wire! Claire breaks down the three-way battle between Gotham FC, San Diego Wave, and the Washington Spirit with just two games left in the regular season. After Washington's massive win over Gotham, can the defending champions hold onto their lead, or is San Diego in the perfect position to steal the Shield on Decision Day?
Plus, how Jordan Dudley's season-ending injury is impacting Gotham's attack, what Jaedyn Shaw's potential return means for Sam Kerr and Rose Lavelle, and why Trinity Rodman and the Spirit are finding their rhythm at the perfect time. Claire also breaks down San Diego's five-game winning streak, Melanie Barcenas' incredible goal, and which team looks best positioned for a deep NWSL playoff run.
This episode is presented by Ally Bank, member FDIC.
Chapters
00:00 Introduction
01:55 Gotham Losing Steam?
06:59 USWNT Deja Vu?
11:30 Gotham Injuries Stacking Up
16:20 Gotham’s Path to the Shield
17:26 Ally Award: Tierna Davidson
21:14 Spirit Making a Run?
26:53 San Diego Stealing the Shield?
Just Women’s Sports is the leading digital media platform dedicated exclusively to women’s sports. In a world where women’s sports have been historically underfunded and under-promoted, Just Women’s Sports exists to shine a light on all the stories, athletes and moments that define and fuel the space. Through original podcasts, premium video programming, social media, editorial content, a newsletter, and exclusive merchandise and live events, Just Women’s Sports is committed to making it both easy and fun to be a women’s sports fan.
Add us on:
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/justwomenssports/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/justwsports
Tik Tok: https://www.tiktok.com/@justwomenssports?
Has Emma Hayes Been Playing the Wrong Players? USWNT vs Spain Has us Asking Questions | The Late Sub
Thursday, October 15, 2026 • Duration 35:38
The USWNT fought back from a 2-0 deficit to earn a dramatic draw against Spain, but did the comeback answer any of the biggest questions facing Emma Hayes? Claire breaks down the good, the bad, and the concerning from the USWNT's two matches against Spain, and what they reveal about the team's chances at the 2027 Women's World Cup.
Ashley Sanchez and Mallory Swanson deliver huge goals, but questions remain about Lindsey Heaps' role in the midfield, the USWNT's defensive struggles, and whether Claudia Dickey has emerged as the clear No. 1 goalkeeper. Plus, which players made their case for a World Cup roster spot, why the USWNT's attacking depth could be its biggest strength, and whether Emma Hayes needs to rethink her approach against the world's best teams.
This episode is presented by Ally Bank, member FDIC.
Chapters
00:00 Introduction
01:02 USWNT's Dramatic Spain Comeback
02:58 Emma Hayes' Bigger Picture
09:51 Breaking Down Spain
12:23 The Lindsey Heaps Problem
16:23 USWNT's Defensive Struggles
18:52 World Cup Roster Locks
20:01 The Goalkeeper Battle
22:47 Ashley Sanchez Shines
26:16 Mallory Swanson Is BACK
27:28 Impact Subs
30:46 Can the USWNT Evolve?
Just Women’s Sports is the leading digital media platform dedicated exclusively to women’s sports. In a world where women’s sports have been historically underfunded and under-promoted, Just Women’s Sports exists to shine a light on all the stories, athletes and moments that define and fuel the space. Through original podcasts, premium video programming, social media, editorial content, a newsletter, and exclusive merchandise and live events, Just Women’s Sports is committed to making it both easy and fun to be a women’s sports fan.
Add us on:
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/justwomenssports/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/justwsports
Tik Tok: https://www.tiktok.com/@justwomenssports?
What Went WRONG for the USWNT Against Spain? ft. Jess McDonald | The Late Sub
Monday, October 12, 2026 • Duration 49:20
The USWNT's biggest test yet ends in a 2-0 loss to Spain, and there are some BIG questions for Emma Hayes. Claire Watkins is joined by World Cup champion and three-time NWSL champion Jess McDonald to break down what went wrong, why the midfield struggled, and what this result means for the USWNT's preparations for the 2027 World Cup.
From Lindsey Heaps and Lily Yohannes struggling to find their rhythm to the tactical decisions behind Trinity Rodman and Alyssa Thompson switching wings, Claire and Jess debate whether the USWNT's problems are about personnel, tactics, or simply growing pains against the best team in the world.
Plus, why Sophia Wilson might have been the best player on the pitch despite the scoreline, the case for giving Jaelin Howell a start, and what Emma Hayes needs to change before the USWNT gets another shot at Spain.
This episode is presented by Ally Bank, member FDIC.
Chapters
00:00 Introduction
02:10 World Cup Champion Jess McDonald Joins
04:50 Trinity Rodman & Alyssa Thompson Switching Wings
08:01 Why Losing Can Be Good Before a World Cup
10:59 What's Wrong With the USWNT Midfield?
14:33 Lindsey Heaps' Role Moving Forward
19:00 Does Jaelin Howell Deserve a Shot?
24:11 Bright Spots From the USWNT's Second Half
26:15 Sophia Wilson's Impact
32:38 Goalkeeping, Claudia Dickey & Spain's Goals
37:45 Why Can't the USWNT Finish Its Chances?
42:36 How Important Is a Bounce-Back Win?
45:44 Who Should Emma Hayes Start Against Spain?
Just Women’s Sports is the leading digital media platform dedicated exclusively to women’s sports. In a world where women’s sports have been historically underfunded and under-promoted, Just Women’s Sports exists to shine a light on all the stories, athletes and moments that define and fuel the space. Through original podcasts, premium video programming, social media, editorial content, a newsletter, and exclusive merchandise and live events, Just Women’s Sports is committed to making it both easy and fun to be a women’s sports fan.
Add us on:
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/justwomenssports/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/justwsports
Tik Tok: https://www.tiktok.com/@justwomenssports?
Ashley Sanchez, Trinity Rodman & Sophia Wilson: The USWNT Attack We NEED to See | The Late Sub
Thursday, October 8, 2026 • Duration 28:09
The USWNT is gearing up for its biggest test yet against world No. 1 Spain, but injuries to Naomi Girma and Sam Coffey have left Emma Hayes with some major decisions to make. Claire breaks down her ideal starting XI, why Ashley Sanchez deserves to start alongside Trinity Rodman and Sophia Wilson, and how the USWNT can compete without two of its most important players.
Plus, start Lily Yohannes over Lindsey Heaps, who should step up in Girma’s absence, and how the USWNT can disrupt Spain’s dominant midfield to pull off a statement win ahead of the 2027 World Cup.
This episode is presented by Ally Bank, member FDIC.
Chapters
00:00 Introduction
02:06 USWNT Not Healthy…
06:17 The Case for Ashley Sanchez
10:30 Forwards Off the Bench
11:45 Midfielders
17:38 Defenders
22:06 Outside Backs
24:28 Goalkeepers
Just Women’s Sports is the leading digital media platform dedicated exclusively to women’s sports. In a world where women’s sports have been historically underfunded and under-promoted, Just Women’s Sports exists to shine a light on all the stories, athletes and moments that define and fuel the space. Through original podcasts, premium video programming, social media, editorial content, a newsletter, and exclusive merchandise and live events, Just Women’s Sports is committed to making it both easy and fun to be a women’s sports fan.
Add us on:
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/justwomenssports/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/justwsports
Tik Tok: https://www.tiktok.com/@justwomenssports?
Ashley Sanchez Is Back — But What’s Going On With Jaedyn Shaw & Ally Sentnor? | The Late Sub
Thursday, October 1, 2026 • Duration 28:38
Claire breaks down the surprise call-ups, the biggest snubs, Ashley Sanchez’s return to the national team, and why the USWNT worry meter is still ticking up at a few key positions.
Plus, why Jaedyn Shaw and Ally Sentnor are headed to the U23s, how Mallory Swanson’s versatility could change her role with the USWNT, and why these two games against Spain might be the biggest test yet for Emma Hayes and this new-look player pool.
This episode is presented by Ally Bank, member FDIC.
Chapters
00:00 Introduction
04:30 Evelyn Shores
09:17 Trinity Byars
10:14 Pietra Tordin
11:31 Jordan Silkowitz
15:00 Players who EARNED it
17:18 Mal Swanson in the Midfield?
21:05 Sears & Rudd
22:29 Biggest Roster Snubs
Just Women’s Sports is the leading digital media platform dedicated exclusively to women’s sports. In a world where women’s sports have been historically underfunded and under-promoted, Just Women’s Sports exists to shine a light on all the stories, athletes and moments that define and fuel the space. Through original podcasts, premium video programming, social media, editorial content, a newsletter, and exclusive merchandise and live events, Just Women’s Sports is committed to making it both easy and fun to be a women’s sports fan.
Add us on:
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/justwomenssports/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/justwsports
Tik Tok: https://www.tiktok.com/@justwomenssports?
Emma Hayes Would Be INSANE To Leave Ashley Sanchez Off the USWNT Roster vs Spain | The Late Sub
Thursday, September 24, 2026 • Duration 30:21
The USWNT roster announcement is just around the corner, and Ashley Sanchez is making it impossible for Emma Hayes to ignore her. Claire breaks down why Sanchez has earned another call-up, which NWSL stars deserve a shot against Spain, and whether Hayes needs to rethink her player pool ahead of the 2027 World Cup.
Plus, Jaedyn Shaw and Croix Bethune continue to make their cases, Jordynn Dudley is turning heads in her rookie season, and some familiar USWNT names could be playing their way out of the picture. Who deserves a spot, and who might be running out of time?
This episode is presented by Ally Bank, member FDIC.
Chapters
00:00 Introduction
02:26 Absences for Injuries
04:38 Ashley Sanchez
07:16 Jaedyn Shaw
09:19 Croix Bethune
11:01 New Goalkeepers?
15:11 Stars of Tomorrow?
19:44 Rookie of the Year Lock???
23:18 Players Trending Down…
28:37 Keeping Themselves in the Conversation
Just Women’s Sports is the leading digital media platform dedicated exclusively to women’s sports. In a world where women’s sports have been historically underfunded and under-promoted, Just Women’s Sports exists to shine a light on all the stories, athletes and moments that define and fuel the space. Through original podcasts, premium video programming, social media, editorial content, a newsletter, and exclusive merchandise and live events, Just Women’s Sports is committed to making it both easy and fun to be a women’s sports fan.
Add us on:
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/justwomenssports/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/justwsports
Tik Tok: https://www.tiktok.com/@justwomenssports?
Vlatko Andonovski Is Out & the NWSL Coaching Carousel Keeps Spinning
Thursday, September 17, 2026 • Duration 29:41
The NWSL coaching carousel is in full swing, and Vlatko Andonovski’s exit from the Kansas City Current might be the most confusing move yet. Claire breaks down why KC moved on after so much recent success, what the players’ reactions say about the decision, and whether all of this change could come back to haunt them in the playoff race. Plus, Seb Hines is out in Orlando, Houston and Chicago are making changes of their own, and Utah might be proving that sometimes the smartest move is simply sticking with the plan.
This episode is presented by Ally Bank, member FDIC
Chapters
00:00 Introduction
03:08 Why NWSL Coaches Keep Losing Their Jobs
05:59 What Happened With Vlatko Andonovski in Kansas City?
15:09 Orlando Pride Fire Seb Hines
20:30 Houston, Chicago & the NWSL Coaching Carousel
23:33 Utah Royals Prove Stability Can Work
27:04 Bay FC, Angel City & Who’s Next?
Just Women’s Sports is the leading digital media platform dedicated exclusively to women’s sports. In a world where women’s sports have been historically underfunded and under-promoted, Just Women’s Sports exists to shine a light on all the stories, athletes and moments that define and fuel the space. Through original podcasts, premium video programming, social media, editorial content, a newsletter, and exclusive merchandise and live events, Just Women’s Sports is committed to making it both easy and fun to be a women’s sports fan.
Add us on:
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/justwomenssports/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/justwsports
Tik Tok: https://www.tiktok.com/@justwomenssports?
Discover shows related to The Late Sub with Claire Watkins, based on actual content similarities. Explore podcasts with similar topics, themes, and formats, backed by real data.