Projecting Bev Priestman’s Roster for Paris Olympics
The Canadian women’s soccer team is gearing up for the Paris Olympics, with head coach Bev Priestman facing the tough task of selecting the roster that will compete for gold. The team recently played a pair of friendlies against Mexico as part of the Summer Send-Off Series, giving Priestman a final look at her players before making her decisions.
Priestman emphasized the importance of finding a balance in the team, not just selecting the best 18 players but the best squad to achieve success. Injuries have added complexity to the decision-making process, with key players like Quinn and Sydney Collins facing setbacks.
Forward Nichelle Prince and Deanne Rose were also sidelined for precautionary reasons during the recent camp, raising questions about their availability for the Olympics. Priestman is no stranger to making tough decisions, having left out experienced players in the past to build the best team for the job.
With the roster announcement deadline approaching, Priestman will have to make some bold calls to assemble a squad capable of bringing home a medal. Here’s a closer look at the players who could be on their way to Paris in various positions:
Goalkeepers
– Kailen Sheridan
– Sabrina D’Angelo
– Lysianne Proulx (Alternate)
Centre Backs
– Kadeisha Buchanan
– Vanessa Gilles
– Jade Rose
– Shelina Zadorsky (In contention)
Fullbacks/Wingbacks
– Ashley Lawrence
– Jayde Riviere
– Gabby Carle (In contention)
– Allysha Chapman (Longshot due to injury)
Midfielders
– Jessie Fleming
– Quinn (Injured)
– Simi Awujo (In contention)
– Julia Grosso
– Desiree Scott
Forwards
– Janine Beckie
– Cloe Lacasse
– Adriana Leon
– Jordyn Huitema
– Nichelle Prince
– Deanne Rose
– Olivia Smith
– Evelyne Viens
With tough decisions to be made and competition fierce for roster spots, Priestman will have her work cut out for her in selecting the squad that will represent Canada in Paris. Stay tuned for the final roster announcement as the team prepares for the Olympic challenge.
