USWNT Faces Italy in Final Matches of 2025

ORLANDO, Fla. — The U.S. women’s national soccer team will conclude its 2025 schedule with two matches against Italy this week. With a record of 10 wins and 3 losses, the USWNT seeks to finish strong under head coach Emma Hayes, who has focused on player development throughout the year.

The USWNT’s three losses this year came at the hands of Brazil, Portugal, and Japan. The team hasn’t finished a year with more than three defeats since 2001, and they hope to keep that trend alive. The matches against Italy, taking place on Friday, Nov. 28, at 7 p.m. ET at Inter & Co Stadium, mark the first meetings between the teams in nearly 15 years.

Historically, the USWNT holds a favorable record against Italy, winning 11 of their 16 encounters (11-1-4). However, the Italian side is riding high after reaching the semifinals of the 2025 UEFA Euro championships.

October’s matches for the USWNT included a surprising loss to Portugal, followed by a rematch which served as a redemption—culminating in a dominant victory over New Zealand. Hayes had been experimenting with the lineup, using this year to expand the player pool and integrate younger talent.

Hayes announced a 26-player roster for the Italy games, which includes returning veteran Naomi Girma, who suffered from a calf injury earlier this year. Rose Lavelle also returns after winning the NWSL Championship with Gotham FC, among others.

One notable addition is Jameese Joseph, who received her first call-up to the senior squad after impressing on U-23 teams. Defensive midfielder Jaelin Howell will make her return to the USWNT for the first time since October 2022, bolstered by a successful season with Gotham FC.

Howell has praised the mentorship of experienced teammates like Lavelle and Emily Sonnett, stating that learning from them has been a pivotal part of her development as a player.

The upcoming Italy matches will help gauge the USWNT’s progress as they prepare for World Cup qualifying in November 2026. Italy, currently ranked 12th by FIFA, is aiming to challenge the USWNT’s attacking strategies under their head coach Andrea Soncin.