USA news

Five keys as USWNT face Japan again in second friendly

The USWNT defeated Japan 2-1 in the first game of the three-game series and will field a different squad in the next match as Emma Hayes continues testing the group ahead of qualifying.

United States v Japan - International Friendly

Hayes is 'proud' of Wilson's performance vs. Japan

Sophia Wilson, after giving birth to her daughter Gigi in September, returns to the USWNT and the starting lineup for the first time since 2024. Wilson, who earned her 59th cap and 41st start on the night, hadn’t shared the pitch with fellow “Triple Espresso” member Trinity Rodman in 17 months. After a brief feeling-out period, though, the pair looked like they hadn’t missed a beat up top.

Lavelle steals the show as Wilson makes long-awaited return in win

The USWNT won their 10th-straight game, defeating Japan 2-1 to open up a series of three games against their long-time rival this month. Rose Lavelle scored and added an assist to push the USWNT past the 2026 AFC Women’s Asian Cup champions.

USWNT vs Japan five keys: Wilson’s comeback begins

Sophia Wilson is back, the midfield is settling and key roster battles are heating up as the USWNT face Japan in a crucial three-game stretch.

A new front has opened in the ongoing debate over inclusion in international sport. Former U.S. President Donald Trump has publicly called for transgender individuals to be barred

The US President is seeking to strengthen his influence in the world of football. This strategic push, though light on specifics so far, is being watched closely by stakeholders across the sport. From domestic leagues to international governing bodies, officials are weighing how the White House might leverage diplomatic, economic, and cultural levers to expand American interests on and off the pitch. In recent years, football—or soccer, as it is known in the United States—has emerged as a powerful soft-power tool for nations seeking to project influence, attract investment, and build global partnerships. The world’s most popular sport commands billions of fans, making it an attractive arena for political leaders aiming to amplify their messages and forge new alliances. While the details of the President’s plan remain unclear, several potential avenues are under consideration. These include hosting high-profile tournaments, investing in youth development programs, and using the sport as

Egypt and Iran reveal alternative World Cup participation plan With the final whistle on their group stage fortunes blowing, both Egypt and Iran have unveiled a contingency bluepri

Doubts surround the Iranian national team ahead of the World Cup. As the final whistle approaches for football’s showpiece event, observers in Tehran and beyond sense a palpable unease about the team’s readiness. Concerns range from the squad’s defensive fragility to the lingering effects of domestic political pressures that have shadowed its preparations. Analysts point out that the side has struggled to find consistency in high-profile friendlies, and the coaching staff’s public silence only amplifies the uncertainty. Fans, who have seen their team qualify for a record sixth consecutive tournament, now wonder whether the squad can silence the sceptics when the first match kicks off.

2022-World-Cup-Match-Between-USA-And-Iran-in-Qatar

Before the US and Iran… historic clashes that took place at World Cup stadiums

Doubts surround Iran's participation in the World Cup

Sophia Wilson returns to USWNT feeling grounded and balanced

Sophia Wilson is back with the USWNT after stepping away for motherhood, saying the journey has left her feeling more balanced, grounded and ready for the next chapter.

Wilson back in the mix - but concern growing for Macario?

There were a few surprises, along with plenty to be excited about, as Emma Hayes announced a squad that might look close to her World Cup qualifying group.

Wilson is back as Hayes calls in USWNT squad for April friendlies

Two shots of espresso are back on the menu for the U.S. Women’s National Team. Emma Hayes named a 26-player roster for April friendlies against Japan, headlined by the returns of Olympic gold medalists Sophia Wilson and Tierna Davidson, while veteran goalkeeper Jane Campbell also re-enters the fold. It's Wilson's first involvement with the national team since 2024.

NXGN 2026: Top 25 teenage talents in women's football

The annual NXGN lists are back for 2026, as GOAL ranks the world's top teenage talents in men's and women's football, crowning winners that will follow in the footsteps of the likes of Jude Bellingham, Lamine Yamal, Lena Oberdorf and Linda Caicedo in being recognised as the best young footballers on the planet.

USWNT Abroad: Coffee's Man City influence, CFC move past Macario exit

GOAL reviews the top USWNT performances abroad over the weekend, from Girma's return to the Chelsea roster, Thompson's hunt for more goals, Tullis-Joyce's saves for United and Coffey's presence for Man City.

Betting spotlight

EPL winner odds: Predictions updated on 22.05.26

See more betting articles

The Rondo: Did USMNT get their World Cup kits right?

The USMNT's World Cup kits have officially been unveiled, but where do they stack up compared to others?

U.S. Soccer unveils new kits ahead of USMNT's upcoming World Cup

U.S. Soccer has unveiled the federation's new kits that will be worn by the U.S. men's national team at this summer's World Cup. The two kits, nicknamed the "Stars" and "Stripes" kit will be debuted this month in Atlanta for the USMNT's friendlies. Both kits will be worn across all 27 U.S. Soccer National Teams.

Why Thompson expected four-month goal drought at 'scary' Chelsea

USWNT sensation Alyssa Thompson has lifted the lid on her daunting transition from Angel City FC to the relentless spotlight of the Women's Super League. Trading the sunny comforts of her Los Angeles hometown for a blockbuster move to Chelsea, the 20-year-old forward revealed the leap was so intimidating that she braced herself to go four months without finding the back of the net in a star-studded Blues squad.

How USWNT star Coffey can become 'unpredictable' at City

Manchester City are on the brink of a first Women's Super League title since 2016, and a big reason for their incredible performances this season has been the midfield duo of Yui Hasegawa and Laura Blindkilde Brown. And yet, in January, the Cityzens got even stronger in that position when they added another truly world-class midfielder in United States star Sam Coffey, making a move that can have so many short- and long-term benefits.

adidas drop throwback to iconic 1994 USMNT jersey as Lalas models

adidas have thrown it back to the 1994 World Cup and gotten us bang in the mood for the 2026 edition by dropping a jersey inspired by an iconic USMNT look from the last time the tournament was hosted in the United States.

Thompson sisters star, Moultrie quiet in USWNT Stock Up, Down

Alyssa and Gisele Thompson impressed as the USWNT won the SheBelieves Cup, but a crowded midfield and a quiet night for Phallon Tullis-Joyce left a few questions to answer.

Alyssa Thompson credits sister Gisele, Chelsea FC after SBC win

HARRISON, N.J. - Alyssa Thompson’s late winner secured the U.S. Women’s National Team's eighth SheBelieves Cup title on Saturday night, as the forward credited her sister and teammate Gisele Thompson for helping her perform in the biggest moments. The forward also mentioned why the move to Chelsea FC was vital for her growth as a player.