M.A. Vignola received her first U.S. Women’s National Team call-up on Saturday, as the team made a few roster changes before its upcoming September friendlies.
It’s the first senior call-up of Vignola’s career, with the Angel City FC defender having played for the U-17 team when she was just 14 years old. She has two goals in 15 matches for Angel City so far this season, including her first career NWSL goal in June.
It was also the game-winner for Angel City in their 2-1 win over San Diego. She got her second career goal in the next game in a 2-1 loss to the Spirit.
She was named to the NWSL Team of the Month in June, having been one of the best fullbacks in the league alongside Emily Fox and Casey Krueger. Her blocks (1.55) clearances (3.18) and aerials won (1.06) all rank at or near the top percentile in the league when compared to other fullbacks. Angel City interim head coach Becki Tweed has tabbed her as “one of the best fullbacks in the league.”
“I think people forget how young she is and how new to the league,” Tweed said of Vignola being named to the NWSL’s best XI in June. “Being a rookie in this league – she didn’t play last year so I think we can call her a rookie – is a huge compliment to the space that she’s in right now.
“I think she’s just getting started. I think she has crazy room to grow and a high ceiling. And I think she’s getting the recognition that she deserves. It’s good to see that happen. But she still wants to push and grow and I think you’ll see a lot more from her in the next few years.”
Forward Midge Purce was also added to the team. Purce and Vignola will replace Rose Lavelle and Kelley O’Hara, respectively, on the roster.