The US Women's National Team (USWNT) is ready to kick off their Olympic group stage as they face Zambia on Thursday. Head coach Emma Hayes confirmed that the entire team is healthy and available for selection. Ahead of the opening match, Hayes, along with forward Sophia Smith and defender Emily Fox, addressed the media from Marseille, where the team has been training for the past week.

Marseille has provided a peaceful environment for the team to prepare and focus on the upcoming games. Smith expressed her appreciation for being in their own bubble, away from the distractions typically associated with host cities like Paris. Hayes echoed this sentiment, emphasizing the need to control the controllables and maintain focus on the team's process during this crucial stage.

The USWNT has made the most of their time in Marseille, ensuring that they are fully prepared for their opener against Zambia. Hayes expressed her satisfaction with the team's preparation and stated that they are exactly where they need to be.

While the USWNT recognizes that there are no easy games in the group stage, their focus is firmly set on the challenge posed by Zambia. This will be the first time the US faces Zambia, so there is no historical record to consider. All eyes are on Barbra Banda, the star striker for Zambia and the Orlando Pride. Banda made a name for herself at the last Olympics, scoring back-to-back hat-tricks against the Netherlands and China. Since joining the Pride, Banda has continued to shine, netting 12 goals and providing five assists.

Hayes praised Banda's form, calling her the most in-form striker in the world. She acknowledged Zambia's exceptional ability to transition from defense to attack quickly and emphasized the importance of structure and possession for the USWNT.

Hayes also mentioned that Zambia has benefited from the expertise of Lisa Cole, who was added to the USWNT staff this spring. Cole played a key role in bringing Banda to Orlando and has provided valuable insights into Zambia's strengths.

The USWNT's presumed starting back line has experienced the challenge of containing Banda in the NWSL, except for Arsenal's Emily Fox, who is yet to face her. However, Fox assured the media that the team is fully aware of Banda's threat and is focused on their own preparation and playing as a unit.

Hayes stressed a one-game-at-a-time mentality, emphasizing the importance of winning the opener and then building momentum throughout the group stage. She maintained a respectful approach regarding the possibility of reaching the Gold Medal match in Paris, acknowledging that qualification must be earned in a highly competitive tournament.

The USWNT is poised and determined as they head into their Olympic opener against Zambia. With a strong focus on their game plan and a commitment to taking things one step at a time, the team is ready to showcase their skills and compete for success in Tokyo 2021.