By Steven Schlink, WRAL Sports contritbutor

Three members of the Team USA women’s soccer team addressed the media during a press conference Thursday, discussing their preparation and mindset ahead of their upcoming gold medal match.

Sophia Smith emphasized the team’s commitment to maintaining a high standard of performance.

“This team has always had a standard of winning and winning on the biggest stage. We take pride in that and want to uphold it in everything we do,” Smith stated.

The close-knit nature of the team was highlighted as the players spoke about their camaraderie.

“It’s been really good, it’s felt so natural. We’re really good friends off the field, and I think that just translates on the field. Playing alongside some of your best friends makes it so much more fun,” Smith said.

The U.S. women’s soccer team has won all five of their matches thus far, with the games varying in intensity.

Despite the challenges, the team has focused on playing with joy and minimizing stress.

“It’s been stressful at times, but it’s also been really fun. The stress and the pressure are kind of in the back when you’re just enjoying being around each other,” player Mallory Swanson noted.

On Saturday, the team will face Brazil in their sixth match, competing for the gold medal.

This game holds special significance as it will be the final match of Brazilian soccer player Marta Vieira da Silva’s career.

Da Silva is widely recognized as a role model in the sport.

Trinity Rodman praised da Silva’s impact.

“Marta has changed the game of soccer around the world. She’s such a talented soccer player and a great human,” Rodman said.

” I know that she would want us to give her our best game. That’s the highest level of respect you can give someone,” Swanson added.

The gold medal match will begin at 5 p.m. Paris time, which is 11 a.m. for viewers in North Carolina.

Source: wralsportsfan.com