The U.S. Women's National Team is closing in on the 2027 World Cup qualifying window and tournament, which means it's time to start predicting what USWNT head coach Emma Hayes' roster will look like.
The U.S. women's national team won the three-game series against Japan 2-1, with dominant performances from Lindsey Heaps and Claire Hutton, and some less than impressive showings from a surprising few.
The USWNT beat Japan 3-0 on Friday night, fueled by a goal and assist from center back sub Kennedy Wesley and a strike from Rose Lavelle. The result secured a 2-1 edge in the rare three-game series, as manager Emma Hayes’ “game on” message translated into a sharp performance in Commerce City, Colo.
The USWNT will look to close out final game of three-game series against Japan, and after two games, and a 1-1 record, will enter Friday's match with experience, learnings, and something to play for.
Claire Hutton and Lindsey Heaps provided control in midfield, but defensive miscues proved costly as the USWNT fell to Japan in a key evaluation match under Emma Hayes.
The US Women's team play across the year, with various breaks in the domestic soccer calendar. This combines friendlies, qualification games and major tournaments, which are held every two and four years.
Which major tournaments do the USWNT play in?
The two biggest tournaments the USWNT plays in are the FIFA Women's World Cup and the Olympic Games. Both are held in real prestige in the women's game, while the CONCACAF Women's Championship is the main continental tournament the side plays in.
Has the USWNT won any major trophies?
The USWNT has long been one of the best teams in the world and often goes into competitions as the favorites. They've won the World Cup a total of four times, as well as picking up five Olympic Gold Medals. The team has also won the CONCACAF Women's Championship a staggering nine times.
Who are the most capped USWNT players?
There's an actual hall of fame regarding the USWNT, with many players having represented their country hundreds of times. Kristine Lilly is the most capped player, with a staggering 354 appearances to her name. Christine Sinclair is at second with 311. Two other players have picked up over 300 caps, Carli Lloyd (316) and Christie Pearce (311).
What are USWNT fans called?
The fanbase for the USWNT are known as the American Outlaws (AO for short). They are the unofficial supporters group for both the women's and men's national teams.