The U.S. Women’s National Team (USWNT) wrapped up 2025 impressively with a 2-0 victory over Italy on Monday. This win reflects the progress the team has made during head coach Emma Hayes’ year-long effort to revamp the squad in anticipation of the 2027 Women’s World Cup.
Just three days after a 3-0 win against the same opponent, Hayes introduced five changes to the starting lineup, which proved fruitful. Catalina Macario, fresh off scoring twice in the previous match, netted the team’s first goal in the 20th minute. A keen pass from the halfway line by Lily Johannes allowed Macario to sprint into the box and deftly curl her shot into the net.
The USWNT extended their lead in the 41st minute with a goal from Jadyn Shaw, who received a well-placed long pass from Alyssa Thompson. Shaw maneuvered to the edge of the penalty area before elegantly slotting the ball past Italian goalkeeper Francesca Durante.
Although the USWNT maintained possession throughout the match, they created fewer significant scoring opportunities than in their previous game, reducing their shots from 19 to 16. Their expected goals tally also dropped to just 1.44 on Monday, marking one of the lowest figures for the year, yet they effectively restricted Italy’s impact on the game. Italy, like other teams, exposed some inconsistencies in the USWNT’s defending during set pieces, amassing 1.21 expected goals from seven chances on Friday, while on Monday, they only achieved 0.31 expected goals from six attempts.
Looking ahead, the USWNT will return to the field with a friendly match against Paraguay on January 24th, furthering their preparations for the Concacaf World Championship in November, a qualifying tournament for the 2027 World Cup.
### USWNT’s Rising Young Stars
Macario and Shaw exemplify the emerging talent in the USWNT, demonstrating their club performances on the national stage. Macario has scored seven goals and provided three assists in her last 14 games across both club and country, while Shaw has netted three goals and tallied one assist in her last five games, contributing significantly to Gotham’s NWSL Championship victory. Their strong performances highlight Hayes’ focus on selecting players based on their current club form, proving both are vital additions to the USWNT’s historically potent offense.
For Macario, who has battled injuries for years, this match against Italy was a chance to showcase her versatility. Primarily utilized as a substitute No. 9, her ability to contribute significantly strengthens the USWNT’s attacking options. Along with Shaw and fellow starter Alyssa Thompson, Macario is instrumental in addressing concerns about the team’s offensive depth. Although the squad has navigated much of 2025 without the attacking trio of Trinity Rodman, Mallory Swanson, and Sophia Wilson (who combined for 10 goals during the team’s gold medal run at the 2024 Olympics), the USWNT appears ready to fill those gaps with new talent as they gear up for the World Cup.
### A Year of Opportunities for the USWNT
Under Hayes, who has coached the USWNT for 30 games, a record number of 50 players have received starts, expanding the pool of talent significantly. This increased variety promises heightened competition for positions, with many players on the verge of breaking into starting roles. The goalkeeper situation may be led by either Fallon Tallis-Joyce or Claudia Dickie, with the latter having started both matches against Italy, while Tallis-Joyce deals with a fracture. Naomi Girma remains a dependable presence at center back, and young midfielder Lily Johannes is proving to be a key asset on the field.
Numerous positions appear to be up for grabs as players recover from injuries or return from maternity leave, paving the way for emerging players. As the friendlies leading to the Concacaf World Championship unfold, these matches will serve as crucial auditions for the roster. One thing is clear: Hayes has begun reshaping the team, demonstrating the depth and versatility necessary for success on the global stage.
—
### Fan Take
This news matters because it highlights the USWNT’s evolving talent pool and adaptability as they prepare for future competitions. The emergence of young players like Macario and Shaw could rejuvenate the team’s dynamics, potentially leading them to even greater success in upcoming tournaments.
