The name of Carli Lloyd is now carved into the annals of the FIFA Women’s World Cup. But long before she became a title winner and final hat-trick heroine in 2015, the USA star became well aware of this tournament’s ability to shape legends and captivate spectators.

She learned that in 1999, as a 16-year-old fan at a packed Giants Stadium, watching Mia Hamm, Michelle Akers & Co take their first steps towards glory. As Lloyd, who recounts that “amazing experience” in the video above, reflected later: “It sent shivers up my spine”.

“I remember the women playing, the fans - everybody was so excited,” she told FIFA.com. “It was a remarkable moment and I said to myself then that it would be amazing to be able to play for my country. Little did I know that that dream would come true.”

The inspiration had been provided, and Lloyd – just like that trailblazing US class of ’99 – would go on to leave an indelible mark on the Women’s World Cup.

Did you know? After lifting the trophy in 2015, Lloyd donated one of her shirts – showing the three stars for each of USA’s world titles – to the FIFA World Football Museum in Zurich.