The United States Women’s National Team (USWNT) is gearing up for the upcoming 2026 SheBelieves Cup, as coach Emma Hayes unveiled a comprehensive 26-player roster that merges seasoned professionals from both European leagues and the National Women’s Soccer League (NWSL). This announcement, reported by our news portal, highlights the strategic blend of talent as the team prepares for the crucial World Cup qualifiers slated for this fall.
Among the selections, a notable contingent of seven players currently competing in Europe will join a larger group of nineteen athletes active in the NWSL, underscoring the transatlantic depth of the USWNT’s talent pool. The reigning NWSL champions, Gotham FC, stand out prominently, contributing four players to the roster. These include established stars Rose Lavelle and Emily Sonnett, alongside emerging talents Jaedyn Shaw and Lilly Reale, each earning a coveted call-up.
Key Roster Highlights and Implications
Returning to the fold are WSL luminaries Alyssa Thompson and Emily Fox, whose reintegration into the national squad next month is expected to bolster the team’s competitive edge. Their experience in the English top flight offers tactical versatility, complementing the NWSL players’ familiarity with high-intensity domestic competition.
The roster composition reflects a deliberate strategy by Hayes, aiming to harness a synergy between the diverse playing styles cultivated across continents. Such an approach not only enriches the team’s tactical options but also provides a robust foundation as the USWNT embarks on its journey towards securing a berth in the forthcoming World Cup.