Lily Yohannes The 17-Year-Old Star of the US Women’s National Team

Wednesday 04 December 2024 - 16:03

At just 17, Lily Yohannes has already made her mark in the world of soccer. A rising star in women’s football, Yohannes is not only a key player for Ajax’s first team but is also capturing attention on the international stage. Recently, the teenager chose to represent her country of birth, the United States, at the international level, over an offer from the Netherlands, securing her place as a future star of the US Women’s National Team (USWNT).

Yohannes’ journey to success, however, has not been an accident. Her exceptional talent, work ethic, and competitive spirit have guided her rise. Known for her ability to glide across the pitch with grace and a sharp eye for the spectacular, Yohannes has demonstrated a level of skill that is far beyond her years.

Early Beginnings: A Love for the Game

Born in Virginia, Yohannes was the youngest of three siblings and grew up surrounded by soccer. Her father, Daniel, recalls that from the age of three, she was already immersed in the "Beautiful Game." Her older brothers, both passionate about soccer, played with her in the basement, where Daniel had set up a small pitch. Yohannes' competitive nature was evident even then. She would cry when she lost to her brothers, constantly striving to be the best.

Her grandfather, a former international player for Ethiopia, also played a role in shaping her passion for soccer. Known for scoring a remarkable goal from midfield in the 1968 Africa Cup of Nations, he became an inspiration for Yohannes. With a family deeply entrenched in the sport, it was no surprise that Yohannes was drawn to soccer. By the age of five, she was already dominating her age group, impressing coaches and her family alike.

### Rising Through the Ranks: A Move to the Netherlands

When Yohannes was 10, her family moved to the Netherlands, driven by both a job opportunity for her father and the desire to expose their children to a different culture. The move to a country renowned for its soccer culture offered Yohannes the chance to develop her skills further.

Joining the amateur boys' team WV-HEDW in Amsterdam, Yohannes quickly adapted to the higher physicality of the game. Dennis Jullens, the girls’ team coordinator at WV-HEDW, recalls that she stood out for not only her skill but also her assertive attitude. She quickly proved herself as a dominant player, and it wasn’t long before she joined the Ajax academy.

Ajax and the Johan Cruyff Award

At Ajax, Yohannes continued to impress. She earned her first contract with the senior women's team in 2023 and wasted no time making her mark. In her debut season, she was awarded the Johan Cruyff Award as the most talented young player in the Dutch league, solidifying her reputation as one of the brightest prospects in European football.

During her time at Ajax, Yohannes formed a close friendship with teammate Ashleigh Weerden. Despite their age difference, they bonded both on and off the pitch. Weerden remembers how quickly Yohannes adapted to the professional level. Her technical ability, strength, and maturity on the field were evident from the start.

The USWNT Call-Up: A Bright Future Ahead

In 2023, Yohannes was called up to the US Women’s National Team, making her debut in a 3-0 win against South Korea. Just 16 years old, she scored a goal within 10 minutes of entering the match, demonstrating her readiness for the international stage. Later that year, Yohannes announced her decision to commit to representing the US at the international level, citing her strong connection to her homeland and family.

Her decision was met with excitement from USWNT head coach Emma Hayes, who recognizes Yohannes' potential but cautions against placing too much pressure on the young star. Yohannes' performances at club level, along with her maturity and composure, suggest that she has a bright future ahead with the USWNT.

In the most recent international friendlies, Yohannes made an impact, even contributing to the build-up of a winning goal in a match against the Netherlands. Her skill, vision, and quick adaptation to the national team environment speak volumes about her future in the sport.

The Road Ahead: Balancing Ambition with Humility

As Yohannes continues to develop, her family remains focused on keeping her grounded. “Things move really fast, and we are incredibly proud of Lily’s accomplishments,” her father, Daniel, reflects. “But we are always mindful that football is a process, and there’s no shortcut to reaching the top.”

With a future brimming with potential, Yohannes’ journey is just beginning. As she continues to impress with both Ajax and the USWNT, soccer fans around the world are eagerly watching the rise of one of the most exciting young talents in women’s football.