The U.S. Women’s National Team is hibernating this winter after concluding the year on a high note. They wrapped up 2025 with victories, including a match against Italy, reflecting on significant growth over the year.
Under head coach Emma Hayes, 2025 was marked by strategic experimentation aimed at preparing for the 2027 FIFA Women’s World Cup. The team will take a break in December and regroup for their annual New Year’s camp in January. These January sessions typically fall outside the official international window, allowing for a broader evaluation of players who may not be available from European clubs at that time. As they look ahead, the upcoming Concacaf World Championship in November 2026 will be pivotal, especially with many fresh faces in both the senior and under-23 teams complicating coaching decisions.
While the focus will be on the upcoming World Cup qualifiers, predictions for the 2027 squad are ongoing. Notably, the majority of players expected to participate in the 2024 Olympics won’t be included in these predictions, which will mainly consider those with recent contributions to the team.
Key Players to Watch for Qualifying
Goalkeepers: Fallon Tullis-Joyce and Claudia Dickie have both started consecutive games in international slots. Tullis-Joyce missed the end-of-year camp due to a facial injury but has impressed with seven clean sheets from qualifying matches. On the other hand, Dickie received accolades as an NWSL Best Eleven player and as a Goalkeeper of the Year finalist.
Defenders: Tara McCune and Avery Patterson have solid club seasons but face tougher competition in key positions. If Naomi Girma, Tiana Davidson, and Emily Sonnet are all fit for November, McCune will need to contend for a backup position.
Midfielder: Lily Johannes dealt with significant expectations this past season, with Hayes attempting to ease the pressure on the 18-year-old, who has continued to demonstrate great skill on the field.
Forwards: Alyssa Thompson and Katarina Macario could provide additional depth if the Olympic-winning trio of Sophia Smith, Mallory Swanson, and Trinity Rodman return by 2026. Thompson established herself as a regular under Hayes after missing most of 2024, while Macario, emerging from injury, has been in excellent form, scoring in key matches and earning a nomination for Women’s Player of the Year.
On the Bubble
Goalkeeper: Mandy McGlynn began the year as a starter but saw her role diminish due to the emergence of Tullis-Joyce and Dickie. Her ongoing performance at the club level will be crucial for her continued inclusion.
Defender: Lily Reale has seen limited senior-level action but has proved valuable in club play, addressing concerns about depth in the outside back position.
Midfielders: Jadyn Shaw, Olivia Moultrie, and Claire Hutton present promising options for the future, showcasing their potential after starting with the U23 squad.
Forward: Michelle Cooper’s potential cannot be understated. She stands out as a forward who has recently made significant strides, earning national team appearances despite injuries sidelining her from the playoffs.
Outliers
Goalkeeper: Jordan Silkowitz had a challenging season but emerged as a bright spot for Bay FC. With Tullis-Joyce’s injury, he might secure a position on the depth chart.
Defenders: Kennedy Wesley, Gisele Thompson, and Jenna Neiswonger were called up at various points this year, but their playing time in Europe has been limited. Wesley has moved up the ranks after earning a senior call-up in late 2025.
Midfielder: Allie Sentner’s midseason transfer has shifted her role considerably, yet her performance on the U23 team shows promise for future inclusion.
Forward: Emma Sears finds herself in a tight competition for roster spots, especially with so many experienced players vying for the same positions.
Fan Take
This news is crucial for soccer enthusiasts, as it highlights the U.S. Women’s National Team’s evolving strategies and talent pool ahead of crucial competitions. As the team prepares for the next World Cup, the excitement lies in how these fresh faces and returning stars will shape the future of women’s soccer in the U.S.
