In a lackluster 0-0 draw with Colombia, the U.S. women's national team demonstrated a concerning lack of evolution, despite their early exit from the World Cup three months ago. As Las Cafeteras, who reached the quarterfinals in the tournament, held the USWNT at bay, it became evident that immediate changes were needed.

The Round of 16 exit prompted calls for the USWNT to undergo a transformation in tactics and development systems. However, interim coach Twila Kilgore's decision to field a starting lineup comprising 11 World Cup veterans, nine of whom started the disappointing match against Sweden, raised eyebrows among fans and critics alike.

While talented teenagers, such as Alyssa Thompson, Mia Fishel, Jaedyn Shaw, Sam Coffey, and Olivia Moultrie, were invited to join the team, their combined playing time amounted to a mere four minutes. Shaw, the only non-World Cup player under the age of 28 to see the field, made a brief appearance as an 87th-minute substitute.

The fact that these promising players are making their debuts or warming the bench under an interim coach is a secondary concern. U.S. Soccer sporting director Matt Crocker is undertaking a meticulous search for Vlatko Andonovski's permanent successor, prioritizing the best decision over a hasty appointment. While some may question this approach, it is crucial to remember that it is the players who drive international soccer.

Drawing parallels with the U.S. men's team's prolonged period without a head coach after their failure to qualify for the 2018 World Cup, supporters argue that Kilgore should be following a similar path. Former interim coach Dave Sarachan wasted no time in introducing young talents like Tyler Adams and Weston McKennie into the team shortly after the disappointment. This move proved to be instrumental in their development, as several of these young players eventually became starters in the 2022 World Cup.

Although the ultimate answer to the USWNT's inability to evolve may lie a year from now, after the 2024 Olympics, every camp and appearance is crucial for the team's progress. The resistance to fast-track the transition by phasing out older players and nurturing the younger generation seems illogical. Each camp leading up to the spring, when the focus shifts to the upcoming Olympics, should gradually embrace a new guard and embrace a forward-looking approach.

Interim coach Kilgore indicated that it was Crocker's directive to call up every healthy World Cup veteran. While some may argue that the interim coach should have the freedom to make assessments and decisions, Crocker defended his stance, emphasizing that the new head coach should have the autonomy to shape the team's future.

Critics argue that it should not take a prolonged search to recognize the potential of players like the dynamic teenager Jaedyn Shaw, who recently impressed for the San Diego Wave in the National Women's Soccer League. Similarly, the 22-year-old striker Mia Fishel, who has been shining for Chelsea, could be a vital asset for the USWNT's future.

The time for change is now, and Kilgore herself acknowledged the impact of giving younger players exposure to high-quality international soccer. Accelerating their development will not only benefit the individuals but also contribute to a stronger USWNT in the long run. The upcoming camps should be used to gradually hand over the reins to the next generation and pave the way for a brighter future for American women's soccer.