Seventeen-year-old Lily Yohannes, a rising star in women’s soccer, has made headlines after deciding to represent the Netherlands over the United States national team, just days after rejecting a call-up to play for the U.S. The American-born athlete, originally hailing from Springfield, Virginia, moved with her family to the Netherlands at the age of ten. Quickly adapting to her new home, she enrolled in the Ajax academy and by the age of 15, had secured her first professional contract. Yohannes’ performances during the UEFA Women’s Champions League last season caught the attention of scouts and national team coaches alike, making her one of the standout players in a competitive European landscape.
Lily’s international journey took a pivotal turn earlier this year when she was called up by the U.S. national team for a friendly against South Korea, a match in which she made a mark by scoring, becoming the youngest player to do so for the U.S. Despite this achievement, her participation in such a non-competitive fixture allowed her to explore other options, namely the chance to represent the Netherlands after applying for Dutch citizenship. The Dutch national team coach, Andries Jonker, acknowledged her inclination towards playing for the Netherlands, and the necessary steps were initiated to facilitate her transition.
As speculation grew around her international allegiance, particularly after U.S. coach Emma Hayes excluded her from the roster for the upcoming Paris Olympics, Yohannes emphasized the importance of taking her time to make the right choice. In interviews from the Netherlands, she reflected on her experiences in both national team camps and appreciated the supportive environment created by both federations. Her family and close friends played a crucial role in helping her consider her options without feeling pressured, allowing her to weigh her decisions carefully.
Yohannes affirmed that her ultimate choice to represent the Netherlands was not rushed, despite coinciding with an imminent match against the U.S. national team. She expressed gratitude for the space given to her by both federations and mentioned that her personal connections and appreciation of the Dutch football culture greatly influenced her decision. Her goal was to focus on her journey rather than external pressures, which she successfully managed to navigate. As a young athlete, Lily’s life continues to revolve around soccer, a sport deeply embedded in her family history.
As she prepares to face the U.S. team in The Hague, Yohannes looks forward to sharing the field with her Ajax teammate and Dutch national captain, Sherida Spitse. Spitse has previously praised Yohannes for her talent and work ethic, highlighting how their shared experiences have fostered a strong connection on and off the pitch. The upcoming match is not just a professional encounter; for Yohannes, it carries personal significance as family and friends come to support her. This moment represents a convergence of her rich heritage, athletic prowess, and newfound national identity.
Lily Yohannes’ familial legacy, including her Eritrean grandfather, who played for Ethiopia in the 1968 Africa Cup of Nations, adds depth to her athletic narrative. Although she has not met him, stories and photographs from her family have instilled a sense of pride and connection to her roots. Growing up in a household filled with soccer passion—thanks to two brothers and a father who played the sport—Yohannes was nurtured into the world of football. With a family history steeped in soccer tradition and a burgeoning career on the rise, Lily Yohannes is positioned to make a significant impact in international women’s soccer.
