After a stopover in Kolbotn IL in Norwegian Division 1, the British international midfielder Rachael Axon is about to cross the Atlantic to discover the NWSL. An ultimate dream for this 29-year-old player she explains to Women Soccer Lovers.

Ambitions with Houston Dash:
"I am very happy to be back on the NWSL and play under the very competent Randy Waldrum. As with any football team where I play for, as simplistic as it may seem, my ambition is always to be the best player possible. Even at the age of 29, there is always room to grow. My goal is to continue to grow as a player in the field and off the field. I have of course had the experience of playing in the United States during my college years. To play in the NWSL, however, it is on a much larger scale. Playing against and alongside and learning from some of the greatest players in this sport is an honor in itself, so I certainly expect that will be a challenge. But I'm attacking this challenge with an open mind and I'm looking forward to this new adventure. "

Opinion on this new championship:
"My opinion of the NWSL is based solely on what I think of the league at this moment in time and what I hope to expect. Obviously, I can not talk about it as direct experience. The United States has without doubt the largest and strongest reservoir for women's football in the world. The college system is the equivalent of being a professional athlete (without the salary), nothing better to prepare you for the life of a professional athlete. There is no better environment for young and promising talents. The NWSL is the perfect opportunity to become the best football player you want to be. It's an opportunity to train and play like a professional with the best resources and facilities available full time. During my career, I have had the chance to play in many different countries and leagues. Yet even with these experiences, the desire to play in the United States has always been the ultimate dream. And with the number of top-level players in the NWSL, I think I'm the only one to say that. "

The place of women's football in the USA:
"From what I've seen over the years, the American sports landscape is certainly changing. With its national rankings, the United States is considered one of the best countries in the world for women's football. Yet, the success of the Women's National Team has not been fully translated into a success for women's professional football in the United States. It seems now, however, that the NWSL is really showing signs that this championship is here to last, and that it will build its credibility around the world. The participation of women in American football overshadows the male presence in the sport. It is one of the few major sports in which the women's national team has been more successful internationally than men's selection. It's very encouraging for young American girls. With the college system already in place, the NWSL also provides the opportunity for American women's football players who wish to pursue a post-college football.

The approaching World Cup and his look at the US team:
"The Women's World Cup, in my opinion, is the best female sports competition that exists. It is not surprising that Americans are considered favorites to win. They are well armed in all lines unlike any other country and have a wealth of experience within the team. I heard, however, that their group is called the group of death. And when you take into consideration, that Sweden is driven by former US coach Pia Sundhage, Australia who is athletic and the young and talented team from Nigeria, you can understand why this group is called this . The duel between the United States and Germany has often defined most of the previous World Cups, but with the growth of women's football and professional leagues, I think we could have some surprises. Nations like Australia, Canada, England, France and Mexico will be more than ever a threat "

Photo: DR