The U.S. women’s national soccer team is preparing for two long-anticipated friendly matches against Spain during the October international window. Coach Emma Hayes has announced a roster of 26 players, which features Olympic gold medalists from 2024, standout NWSL stars, and three newcomers to the national team.
A highlight of the team is Ashley Sanchez, a forward for North Carolina Courage, who recently equaled the league record by scoring 20 goals in a single season after switching positions at her club. The roster also includes first-time call-ups for Trinity Byars (San Diego Wave FC), Pietra Tordin (Portland Thorns), and Evelyn Shores (Angel City).
This will be the first reunion of the team since June as they look to build on a previous series against Brazil. With the 2026 FIFA World Cup on the horizon, these matches provide an important opportunity for the squad to gauge their readiness against top competition and prepare for the Concacaf W Championship, which serves as a qualifier for both the World Cup and the Olympics.
Hayes expressed her excitement for the upcoming games, emphasizing the importance of reconnecting after a lengthy hiatus and assessing new players. “We want to perform well for our fans and ensure we’re ready for the World Cup qualifying tournament,” she stated.
Notable returning players include defender Naomi Girma, who’s been sidelined with an injury and might need to withdraw, and midfielder Sam Coffey, who is back on the field after recovering from minor knee surgery. Mallory Swanson has also returned from maternity leave and rejoined the roster as a midfielder, a shift from her previous role in the attacking trio known as “triple espresso.”
USWNT October Roster
Goalkeepers (3):
- Claudia Dickey (Seattle Reign FC; 11 caps)
- Jordan Silkowitz (Bay FC; 0 caps)
- Phallon Tullis-Joyce (Manchester United, ENG; 7 caps)
Defenders (8):
- Tierna Davidson (Gotham FC; 70/3)
- Emily Fox (Arsenal FC, ENG; 78/1)
- Naomi Girma (Chelsea FC, ENG; 54/2)
- Avery Patterson (Houston Dash; 14/1)
- Lilly Reale (Boston Legacy FC; 9/0)
- Tara Rudd (Washington Spirit; 12/0)
- Gisele Thompson (Angel City FC; 11/0)
- Kennedy Wesley (San Diego Wave FC; 7/1)
Midfielders (7):
- Sam Coffey (Manchester City FC, ENG; 46/5)
- Lindsey Heaps (Denver Summit FC; 178/40)
- Claire Hutton (Bay FC; 20/1)
- Rose Lavelle (Gotham FC; 122/29)
- Evelyn Shores (Angel City FC; 0/0)
- Mallory Swanson (Chicago Stars; 103/38)
- Lily Yohannes (OL Lyon, FRA; 20/1)
Forwards (8):
- Trinity Byars (San Diego Wave FC; 0/0)
- Michelle Cooper (Kansas City Current; 14/1)
- Trinity Rodman (Washington Spirit; 57/13)
- Emma Sears (Racing Louisville FC; 21/6)
- Ashley Sanchez (North Carolina Courage; 28/3)
- Pietra Tordin (Portland Thorns FC; 0/0)
- Alyssa Thompson (Chelsea FC, ENG; 32/4)
- Sophia Wilson (Portland Thorns FC; 63/25)
Sanchez ‘Fulfilling Her Potential’
Sanchez’s stellar performance with the Courage made her a prime candidate for the national team, with Hayes praising her consistency and growth this season. “She’s had an extraordinary season, scoring consistently, which was not the case in previous years,” Hayes noted, highlighting Sanchez’s journey toward realizing her talent.
Moreover, her strong form contributed to the decision for younger players, Jaedyn Shaw and Ally Sentnor, to participate in the U-23 national team during this international break. This approach aims to ensure they receive adequate playing time amidst fierce competition.
Hayes stated, “I want to prioritize the development of players and avoid letting less experienced ones sit on the bench,” underlining her intent to focus on player growth even as the senior team competes for immediate success.
Four uncapped players made the roster—three newcomers earning spots based on exceptional performances at the league level, such as Byars, Shores, and Tordin. “Pietra Tordin has had an outstanding year, and Trinity Byars is among the top scorers,” Hayes emphasized, noting their contributions warranted inclusion.
While Hayes did not elaborate on the chances of these new additions making the Women’s World Cup roster next summer, she believes experience with the senior squad during October will benefit their development. “We must continue to invest in the players who will shape our future, even as we aim for World Cup qualification,” she remarked.
Editorial Opinion
This news is significant for soccer fans as it highlights the continued evolution of the U.S. women’s national team, showcasing emerging talent and the depth of competition within their ranks. These matches against Spain not only serve as crucial preparation for upcoming tournaments but also set the stage for the next generation of players, keeping the momentum and high standards of women’s soccer alive as they aim for global success.
Source: www.cbssports.com
