USWNT She Believes Squad Named by Hayes

USWNT She Believes Squad Named by Hayes

The U.S. Soccer and head coach Emma Hayes have officially revealed the 26-player squad set to represent the United States Women’s National Team at the 2026 She Believes Cup. This year’s roster features a mix of experienced veterans and rising talents, highlighting Hayes’ continued commitment to expanding and strengthening the national team player pool.

The annual tournament will see the United States compete against Argentina, Canada, and Colombia in a high-intensity round-robin format designed to simulate major international competitions.

Emma Hayes Emphasizes World Cup Preparation

According to Hayes, the SheBelieves Cup offers more than just competitive matches — it mirrors the demanding environment of a FIFA tournament group stage.

She noted that facing three strong opponents in quick succession provides an ideal setting to prepare for the upcoming World Cup qualifying campaign later this year. Hayes also stressed the importance of continuously developing the player pool, ensuring the team grows stronger with each competition.

With valuable international experience accumulating, Hayes expects the team’s performance standards to continue rising.

A Blend of Experience and New Faces

The 2026 roster reflects both transition and opportunity:

  • Nine players will participate in their first SheBelieves Cup.
  • Twelve players have earned fewer than 10 international caps.

This balance underscores the program’s long-term vision — integrating emerging players while maintaining a solid veteran foundation.

2026 USWNT She Believes Cup Roster

Goalkeepers (3)

  • Claudia Dickey (Seattle Reign FC; 7 caps)
  • Mandy McGlynn (Utah Royals; 5 caps)
  • Phallon Tullis-Joyce (Manchester United, ENG; 4 caps)

Defenders (9)

  • Jordyn Bugg (Seattle Reign FC; 6 caps/0 goals)
  • Emily Fox (Arsenal FC, ENG; 71/1)
  • Naomi Girma (Chelsea FC, ENG; 50/2)
  • Lilly Reale (Gotham FC; 6/0)
  • Tara Rudd (Washington Spirit; 10/0)
  • Emily Sonnett (Gotham FC; 113/2)
  • Gisele Thompson (Angel City FC; 5/0)
  • Kennedy Wesley (San Diego Wave FC; 3/0)
  • Kate Wiesner (Washington Spirit; 3/0)

Midfielders (8)

  • Sam Coffey (Manchester City, ENG; 42/5)
  • Lindsey Heaps (OL Lyonnes, FRA; 170/38)
  • Claire Hutton (Bay FC; 13/1)
  • Riley Jackson (North Carolina Courage; 1/0)
  • Rose Lavelle (Gotham FC; 116/27)
  • Olivia Moultrie (Portland Thorns FC; 13/5)
  • Jaedyn Shaw (Gotham FC; 31/9)
  • Lily Yohannes (OL Lyonnes, FRA; 13/1)

Forwards (6)

  • Maddie Dahlien (Seattle Reign FC; 2/0)
  • Jameese Joseph (Chicago Stars FC; 2/1)
  • Trinity Rodman (Washington Spirit; 49/13)
  • Emma Sears (Racing Louisville FC; 14/6)
  • Ally Sentnor (Kansas City Current; 15/6)
  • Alyssa Thompson (Chelsea FC, ENG; 26/3)

2026 She Believes Cup Schedule

Sunday, March 1

USA vs Argentina
GEODIS Park — Nashville, Tennessee
4 p.m. CT / 5 p.m. ET
Broadcast: TNT, truTV, HBO Max (English); Universo and Peacock (Spanish)

Canada vs Colombia
1 p.m. CT / 2 p.m. ET
Broadcast: truTV, HBO Max (English); Universo and Peacock (Spanish)

Wednesday, March 4

USA vs Canada
ScottsMiracle-Gro Field — Columbus, Ohio
6:30 p.m. ET
Broadcast: TNT, truTV, HBO Max (English); Universo and Peacock (Spanish)

Colombia vs Argentina
3:30 p.m. ET
Broadcast: truTV, HBO Max (English); Universo and Peacock (Spanish)

Saturday, March 7

USA vs Colombia
Sports Illustrated Stadium — Harrison, New Jersey
3:30 p.m. ET
Broadcast: TBS, truTV, HBO Max (English); Telemundo, Universo, Peacock (Spanish)

Canada vs Argentina
12:30 p.m. ET
Broadcast: truTV, HBO Max (English); Universo and Peacock (Spanish)

Why the 2026 She Believes Cup Matters

The SheBelieves Cup continues to serve as a strategic testing ground for the USWNT. With World Cup qualifying on the horizon, this tournament provides valuable competitive reps against high-caliber international opponents.

The presence of seasoned leaders such as Rose Lavelle, Lindsey Heaps, and Emily Sonnett offers stability, while emerging players gain crucial exposure on the global stage. This blend positions the United States to refine tactical approaches and evaluate squad depth ahead of crucial fixtures later in the year.

Conclusion

The announcement of the 26-player roster for the 2026 SheBelieves Cup highlights Emma Hayes’ clear vision for the future of the USWNT.

By combining veteran leadership with promising young talent, the team aims to sharpen its competitive edge ahead of World Cup qualifying.

The tournament not only tests depth and adaptability but also reinforces the long-term growth strategy of U.S. Soccer as it prepares for the next major international challenge.

FAQs

How many players are on the USWNT roster for the 2026 She Believes Cup?

The roster includes 26 players selected by head coach Emma Hayes.

How many players are making their She Believes Cup debut?

Nine players will participate in the tournament for the first time.

When does the USA play its first match?

The USWNT opens the tournament against Argentina on Sunday, March 1, at GEODIS Park in Nashville.

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