USWNT Announces Roster for Upcoming Friendlies Featuring Veteran Returns

COLORADO, USA — The U.S. Women’s National Team (USWNT) is set to feature a mix of seasoned players and newcomers in its upcoming friendlies against Ireland and Canada. Coach Emma Hayes revealed the 25-player roster on Wednesday, highlighting the return of veteran midfielder Rose Lavelle and including four first-time call-ups.

The matches against Ireland will take place on June 26 outside of Denver and on June 29 in Cincinnati, Lavelle’s hometown. The USWNT will conclude the international window with a match against Canada on July 2 in Washington, D.C.

“We want to continue to improve our understanding of how we want to play and widen the player pool,” said Hayes. “These are three challenging matches, and as always, we want to win, but we also want to ensure we are ready for the next steps.”

This roster marks the first USWNT call-up for several players, including center back Jordyn Bugg and fullbacks Lilly Reale and Claudia Dickey. Each has experience with U.S. youth national teams, having participated in youth World Cups.

Lavelle, who played a key role in the 2019 World Cup victory, returns after recovering from ankle surgery. “We miss her experience and are very much looking forward to her coming back,” Hayes stated. Lavelle has only appeared in limited minutes for her club since her return but is expected to make an impact in the upcoming games.

Croix Bethune, another noteworthy inclusion, is back with the USWNT for the first time since the 2024 Olympics. She made waves in the NWSL, winning Rookie of the Year. “For Croix, it’s a new beginning,” Hayes noted. “She’s exceptionally gifted, particularly with the final pass.”

Besides Lavelle and Bethune, Hayes also stressed the importance of players like Naomi Girma, who expressed eagerness to contribute after previous absences from the team. “She felt really strongly that she needed the minutes… she wants to be involved with the national team because she feels she’s missed a really key camp for us,” Hayes said.

As the team prepares for a future with a focus on the 2027 World Cup, Hayes is excited about cultivating a younger roster. “This is probably the last time I’ll be able to do this in the lead-up to qualifying for the World Cup,” she remarked, indicating the importance of these matches for player development.

The USWNT aims to balance winning with building a broad player pool, essential for competing on an international level.