The U.S. Women's National Team (USWNT) is gearing up for a series of friendlies against Ireland and Canada, and the roster announced by head coach Emma Hayes has generated considerable buzz. Notably, the squad sees the return of two key midfielders: Rose Lavelle and Croix Bethune. The friendlies include two matches against Ireland on June 26 and June 29 in Commerce City, Colorado, and Cincinnati, Ohio, respectively, followed by a match against Canada on July 2 in Washington, D.C.
Lavelle's return is particularly significant as she has been sidelined for over six months following ankle surgery. Her last appearance for the USWNT was in December, and her recovery has been closely monitored by both her club, Gotham FC, and the national team staff. She recently made her return to the pitch for Gotham FC, playing in the 74th minute of a match against the Kansas City Current. Lavelle's experience and playmaking ability will be a major boost to the USWNT midfield. With 110 caps and 24 international goals, she brings veteran leadership to a team that is increasingly incorporating younger players.
Bethune's inclusion in the roster further strengthens the midfield options available to Hayes. Bethune, who plays for the Washington Spirit, has quickly made a name for herself in the NWSL. After a torn meniscus injury in August, she is now ready to return to the field. She was also an alternate at the 2024 Olympics. Her creativity and ability to create scoring opportunities will provide a different dimension to the USWNT's attack.
Hayes is using these friendlies to evaluate and expand the USWNT player pool as she prepares for the 2027 Women's World Cup in Brazil. In line with this strategy, Hayes has called up several uncapped players, offering them an opportunity to gain valuable experience in the national team environment. The roster includes a mix of seasoned veterans and emerging talents, reflecting Hayes' commitment to building a well-rounded and competitive squad.
However, several Europe-based players, including Emily Fox, Crystal Dunn, Lindsey Heaps, Korbin Albert, and Catarina Macario, have been given a break during this international window. Hayes has emphasized the need for these players to recuperate after a long club season. Naomi Girma, who plays for Chelsea, is the only Europe-based player included in the roster, as she missed a significant portion of Chelsea's schedule due to injury.
The goalkeeping position sees Angelina Anderson from Angel City FC, Claudia Dickey from Seattle Reign FC, and Mandy McGlynn from Utah Royals. The defense includes Naomi Girma (Chelsea), Kerry Abello (Orlando Pride), Jordyn Bugg (Seattle Reign), Lilly Reale (Gotham FC), Tara McKeown (Washington Spirit), Avery Patterson (Houston Dash), Izzy Rodriguez (Kansas City Current), Emily Sams (Orlando Pride), Emily Sonnett (Gotham FC), and Gisele Thompson (Angel City). The forward line features Lynn Biyendolo (Seattle Reign), Michelle Cooper (Kansas City Current), Yazmeen Ryan (Houston Dash), Emma Sears (Racing Louisville), Ally Sentnor (Utah Royals), Alyssa Thompson (Angel City).
Hayes has stated that 23 players will be selected to suit up for each of the three games, providing opportunities for different players to showcase their abilities. She wants to improve the team's understanding of how they want to play and broaden the player pool. These friendlies are not only about winning but also about preparing for the challenges ahead and ensuring the team is ready for the next steps in their journey towards the 2027 World Cup.
