Coach Emma Hayes announced a refreshed roster for the United States women’s national soccer team ahead of two September friendlies against world‑ranked Spain. The selections highlight the return of veteran forward Mallory Swanson, who is back after giving birth to her daughter late last year, and the inclusion of Ashley Sanchez, the National Women’s Soccer League’s leading scorer.
Why the changes matter
Hayes said the Spain matches provide a crucial test against the sport’s best, allowing the team to gauge its progress as it builds toward qualifying for the 2027 Women’s World Cup. “They are looking forward at least to the Spain games to test ourselves against the very best,” Hayes explained.
Ashley Sanchez’s comeback
Sanchez, who earned her first senior call‑up a decade ago, has not appeared for the national team in two years. After missing the Paris Olympics and sitting out the 2023 World Cup, she forced her way back by matching the NWSL single‑season scoring record with 20 goals in 26 matches for the North Carolina Courage. “It’s been a big step up for her, and I think at this stage of her career she doesn’t want to waste the opportunities that are in front of her,” Hayes noted. “I’m happy to see her fulfilling her potential. And now it’s about the step up to the senior level.”
Mallory Swanson’s return
Swanson, a former Olympic champion, last played for the United States in the Paris final. Hayes emphasized that Swanson’s listing as a midfielder should not be over‑interpreted. “My job is to get Mallory Swanson to the best available level by the time we reach the biggest games,” Hayes said, underscoring the coach’s focus on getting the veteran back to peak form.
Goalkeeping competition
The goalkeeper spot remains open after Alyssa Naeher stepped aside. Seattle Reign’s Claudia Dickey earned another chance to stake a claim as the first‑choice keeper, with strong competition pressing her heels. “I think Claudia leads the way,” Hayes added, also noting the inclusion of Bay FC’s Jordan Silkowitz and Manchester United’s Phallon Tullis‑Joyce as additional goalkeeping options.
Additional roster notes
Washington Spirit forward Trinity Rodman is also on the squad and could feature in the opening friendly at Audi Field on October 10. Captain Lindsey Heaps returns after a successful stint with Olympique Lyonnais, bringing experience to help launch the NWSL expansion team Denver Summit in her home state. The two matches will be played in New York on October 10 and in Chester, Pennsylvania on October 13.
Looking ahead
These friendlies are part of a broader preparation plan that will see the US women’s team face other top nations as it seeks to secure a spot in the 2027 World Cup. Hayes remains confident that the blend of seasoned veterans and emerging talent will give the United States a competitive edge on the international stage.
Original reporting: Appleton, WI News Feed (HLL/CB) — read the source article.
