Just four years later, they meet again. In their second World Cup match, the United States women's national team will face the Netherlands, the team they beat in the 2019 final. From the moment that draw was announced, this was one many circled on their calendars, and rightfully so.
Since that day four years ago in France, the one where the U.S. claimed a second World Cup trophy in a row behind a 2-0 win, both teams have undergone change. On the U.S. side, Vlatko Andonovski now sits in the dugout, having ushered in a new era led by rising stars Sophia Smith, Naomi Girma and Trinity Rodman.
The old guard, though, is still very much involved. Seven of the USNWT's 11 starters from 2019 are still in the team, although several have taken on lesser roles. Megan Rapinoe, the Golden Ball winner four years ago, is a prime example, as the iconic winger has gracefully moved into a supersub role in what will be her final World Cup.
Several players from that team, though, are absent. Injuries have robbed a few 2019 champions of a chance to defend their title, while one of that team's iconic stars has settled into retired life.
Now, ahead of this rematch, GOAL looks back at the U.S. team that won it all four years ago and where all involved are now as the 2023 World Cup rolls on...