REPORT: Vlatko Andonovski resigns as USWNT head coach

Vlatko Andonovski is no longer the head coach of the U.S. Women’s National Team. In a report from 90min’s Lizzy Becherano and Emily Keogh, the 46 year old now former head coach resigned on Wednesday.

According to ESPN FC’s Jeff Carlisle, the U.S. Soccer Federation is slated to make an announcement on Thursday. In Carlisle’s report, it is also mentioned that U.S. Soccer is in negotiations to hire assistant coach Twila Kilgore on an interim basis for their two upcoming friendlies against September 21 and September 24.

Andovonovski’s resignation comes in the wake of the USWNT losing to Sweden in the World Cup Round of 16, their earliest exit ever in the tournament. Although Andovonovski sported a 51-5-9 record with the USWNT, the early exit at the World Cup coupled with the bronze medal finish at the Tokyo Summer Olympics, seemed to spell the end for his tenure.

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Per Carlisle’s report, U.S. Soccer led by new Sporting Director Matt Crocker interviewed members of the coaching staff as well as players and Andonovski himself. USWNT General Manager Kate Markgraf‘s status within the program was also discussed.

The United States defeated Vietnam 3-0 to open up play at this year’s World Cup, followed by successive draws with the Netherlands (1-1) and Portugal (0-0). Although all three matches were positive results, there was significant criticism for Andonovski’s style of play and their struggle to score goals.

Although missing mainstays Catarina Macario and Mallory Swanson, who were both injured prior to the start of the tournament, the three-time champions inability to finish opportunities created leading to an early exit. Against Sweden, the U.S. outshot Sweden 22-9 and had 11-1 shots on goal advantage, yet failed to capitalize on their chances, losing in penalties 5-4.