The U.S. Women’s National Team (USWNT) is gearing up to take the pitch after a lengthy summer without matches due to global tournaments across Europe, Africa, and South America. With head coach Emma Hayes naming a 26-player roster for the upcoming October friendlies, the anticipation is palpable. The Stars and Stripes will compete in three games during the international window, starting with two matches against Portugal before wrapping up against New Zealand. Hayes recently addressed the media about her selections and vision for the senior team as they prepare for FIFA World Cup qualifiers on the horizon.
The Road to Qualification
The Concacaf W Championship, scheduled for November 2026, serves as the definitive World Cup qualifying tournament for the region. The USWNT, alongside Canada, stands as the top-ranked nation in Concacaf, poised to await the six winners from the upcoming Concacaf W Qualifiers, which commence next month. Hayes emphasized the significance of the current roster, indicating that it serves as a foundation for building towards qualification. “This is really the build towards qualification for next year. That’s what the start of this cycle actually means,” she shared, highlighting the thoughtful selection process that went into finalizing the team for these friendlies.
Navigating Roster Challenges
Constructing this 26-player roster came with its challenges, reflecting the vibrant and competitive nature of women’s soccer. “I think this was the one camp I had to make some really hard decisions, and that’s the place that I wanted to be in,” Hayes continued. She underscored the importance of honoring the National Women’s Soccer League (NWSL) playoffs while being able to maximize player development during the international window. Striking a balance between honoring club commitments and advancing national interests is a key aspect of her strategy.
Integrating Youth into the Senior Team
Recognizing that three months away from competition isn’t optimal, Hayes expressed excitement about reconnecting with the players and reinvigorating team dynamics. In tandem with the senior team’s preparations, the U-23 program continues to be an essential avenue for player development. “We know that we have to provide so many more development opportunities for younger players,” Hayes explained, alluding to the ongoing “futures camps” associated with the U-23 team which was relaunched earlier this year.
Dual Development Pathways
The upcoming U-23 roster will be announced shortly, and training camps for the U-23 and senior teams will run concurrently. This approach aims to ensure a smooth integration of talent and strategies across age levels, including a collaborative camp with the U-20s leading up to the final match against New Zealand. “We’ve always looked at the futures, initially in the under-23 as an extension of a larger playing pool,” Hayes affirmed, underscoring the importance of a cohesive development strategy that encompasses all levels of competition.
Jaedyn Shaw: A Rising Star
One notable inclusion is midfielder Jaedyn Shaw, who returns to the senior team for the first time since February. Recently traded to Gotham FC, Shaw has shown significant growth in her game, emerging as a crucial player in the attack. Hayes spoke highly of her potential and adaptation: “I think Jaedyn has taken on board everything that we’ve been asking of her… She’s an incredible goal threat in so many ways.” This blend of youth and experience is vital as the team navigates the demands of international play.
The Future of Women’s Soccer
As the USWNT embarks on this new chapter, the integration of younger players like Shaw alongside established stars promises to be a game-changer. With a focus on collaboration between the U-23 and senior teams, the coaching staff is committed to nurturing talent while keeping an eye on the ultimate goal: success on the world stage in upcoming competitions. The energy within the camp reflects a shared vision for the future, where every player has the opportunity to contribute to the team’s evolving legacy.