Naomi Girma, the Chelsea defender and a key figure for the US Women’s National Team, will miss the upcoming friendlies against Spain due to a muscle injury sustained during training this week. The announcement from US Soccer confirms that Girma will be sidelined for several weeks, impacting the team’s preparations for these important fixtures.
Despite starting the 2026/27 Women’s Super League season on the bench, Girma’s injury came unexpectedly during practice sessions, further complicating an already stretched USWNT defensive lineup. Chelsea’s manager, Sonia Bompastor, acknowledged the setback, noting that Girma is likely to be unavailable for a few weeks following the knock she received in training.
USWNT Faces Defensive Challenges Ahead of Spain Matches
With Emily Sonnett also out due to injury, the USWNT finds its defensive options limited as it prepares to face the world’s top-ranked team. The absence of two experienced defenders creates a pressing need for replacements in central defense. For the time being, the team will rely on Tierna Davidson, Tara Rudd, and Kennedy Wesley to fill the defensive gaps during these critical encounters.
US Soccer has indicated that the roster will be adjusted to compensate for Girma’s absence, though no official replacement has yet been named. The upcoming friendlies against Spain represent a significant test for the squad’s depth and resilience in the defensive department.