The American rebuild begins after dismal World Cup campaign

NEW YORK : The United States have begun the process of rebuilding their women's team after the departure of their coach, general manager and a handful of influential players following the nation's most disappointing Women's World Cup campaign.

Spain defeated England 1-0 in Sunday's final in Sydney, capping the biggest-ever edition of the tournament that broke attendance and TV records, raising hopes of a surge in interest for the women's game.

The Americans, who own a record four World Cup titles and had never before finished worse than third place, left town long before the party was over after a shock defeat to Sweden in the last 16.

Days later, coach Vlatko Andonovski stepped down as coach, leaving every U.S. fan wondering: 'Was this tournament a bump in the road or is this the end of an era for the most successful women's international football team?'

"It's imperative that we continue to evolve and innovate, and we are excited about the path that lies ahead," U.S. Soccer Sporting Director Matt Crocker said in a statement last week.

"Our commitment to excellence remains unshakeable, and we believe this strategic plan will set the foundation for our women's national team to achieve greater heights in the years to come."

The former director of football operations at Premier League side Southampton is the man at the centre of the women's national team's long-term strategy at a pivotal moment for American soccer, with the men's tournament coming stateside in 2026.

Announced in the role in April, Crocker took the reins after the federation overhauled the scope of the sporting department, as the men's side offered a glimmer of hope by reaching the last 16 in Qatar after failing to qualify for the previous edition.

The U.S.