Delphine Cascarino, forward for the French national soccer team and a product of Olympique Lyonnais (OL), made headlines at this July’s Euro with a memorable brace against the Netherlands—one of which was named the tournament’s best goal. Last year, she took the plunge by joining San Diego Wave FC in the National Women’s Soccer League (NWSL).
In this exclusive interview for MerciSF, she reflects on her career journey, her motivations for exploring the American league, her adaptation to life in California, and her inspiring role as a model for young players.
Just days before a crucial match against Bay FC in San José, Delphine shared her thoughts on this exciting new chapter and her ambitions for the future.
MerciSF: You’ve had an impressive career with Olympique Lyonnais and the French national team. What motivated you to take on the challenge of playing in the United States and to join San Diego Wave FC last year?
Delphine Cascarino: I joined OL when I was 12 and after spending my entire career in the French league, I wanted to see something different and discover another championship. I had always dreamed of playing in the United States and the opportunity came up. I thought it was now or never, because it’s a very physically demanding league: I believe it’s better to come here when you’re still young and in good shape, rather than at the end of your career. It was the right choice.
How was your arrival last year in San Diego and your integration into the team?
I felt a bit of pressure at first because I was arriving into the unknown, on the other side of the planet, far from my family and my home club. I wondered how I would integrate and if my English would be good enough. But the adaptation happened naturally and everything went well. I was warmly welcomed by the players, and I’m lucky to have French teammates on the team (Perle Morroni, Kenza Dali, and soon Laurina Fazer), which really helped me with integration. The only downside is that we often speak French… so my English is progressing a bit slower! But I work on it every day.
Do you see yourself as an ambassador for French women’s football in the United States?
I wouldn’t dare call myself an “ambassador,” but I do represent France, so I want to show the best of what I learned in France and at OL. I also feel a certain responsibility regarding the image of our country, and I hope to show the best of myself and the most positive image possible.
Do you notice major differences between the American league (NWSL) and the French Division 1?
The game may be a bit less technical than in Europe, but physically it is clearly superior. Here, the teams’ level is very balanced, which makes every match tough. In the standings, all teams are within one point of each other except for Kansas City. Whereas in France, Lyon and Paris often dominate the league.
Do you think you bring a French style of play to San Diego Wave FC and the American league?
The fact that there are three, soon four, French players on the team definitely adds a French touch to the team. We like to keep the ball, we prefer possession over chasing the ball — that’s what sets us apart from other teams in the league.
You’ve already scored three goals and provided several assists this season. How do you explain this strong start? Has your style of play evolved here?
Physically, yes. Training in Lyon was already very intensive, but playing consecutive high-intensity matches here has helped me improve, especially in cardio and repeated sprints. I feel in good shape. We also have some very good recruits on the team, which has raised the team’s level, so individually I have also performed better thanks to my teammates and our good team dynamic.
You will face Bay FC this Saturday in San José. Is this a special match for you?
Yes, I’m excited, especially with a strong Franch-American community in the area. It’s always a pleasure to see French fans in the stadium. My cousin, who lives near Lake Tahoe, will be there. It’s always special to have the support of family and fans.
How do you stay connected to your French fans from the United States?
I use social media to keep them updated on the league. The matches are late for them, so it’s not easy to follow, but some do anyway. Here, we also have French supporters who often come to the stadium, and I thank them for their support.
In your opinion, what role does the American league (NWSL) play in the development of women’s football internationally?
The NWSL one of the best leagues in the world and is watched by the whole world. The United States puts a lot of emphasis on women’s sports, and it’s inspiring to see players develop and become true stars here. It’s a model that inspires young girls who want to go far in sports. And for the place of women in society, I think it’s also evolving positively thanks to sports and the great values it promotes.
When you’re not on the pitch, what are your hobbies or ways to unwind here? Are there places you like to go to take a break from football?
I enjoy the beautiful surroundings: the beach, walks, relaxing moments with teammates. I also like watching movies and documentaries, in English to improve my language skills.
Is this your first visit to San Francisco?
Yes! I hope to have time to explore the city after the match, if the schedule allows.
Do you have a message for your fans in California and for young players who look up to you as a role model and source of inspiration?
Come out in numbers to our matches and thank you for your support! To young players, I would say: work hard every day to reach your goals, but always keep the joy of playing, because pleasure is the “fuel” for performance. And above all, keep up with your studies: you can’t put all your eggs in the football basket. But with hard work and passion, many doors open…
Merci Delphine!
