In preparation for a high‑stakes friendly against top‑ranked Spain, United States women’s national team head coach Emma Hayes has identified five National Women’s Soccer League (NWSL) players who could earn a place on the 2027 FIFA Women’s World Cup roster. Hayes emphasized that the upcoming matches are not “experimental” but a chance for new talent to prove they can play “our way” alongside seasoned veterans.
Ashley Sanchez (North Carolina Courage, forward)
North Carolina Courage’s forward Ashley Sanchez has emerged as the league’s single‑season goalscoring leader, tallying 24 goal contributions this year. After a preseason conversation with Courage coach Mak Lind, Sanchez shifted from a central striker role to the wing, unlocking her full potential. “I was laughing,” she recalled, “He was like, ‘I don’t know why you’re laughing. I’m being serious.’” Hayes praised Sanchez’s consistency, noting that her extraordinary season could translate into a valuable World Cup roster spot.
Kennedy Wesley (San Diego Wave, center back)
San Diego Wave captain Kennedy Wesley has become a rare NWSL center back who is comfortable with the ball while defending at an elite level. She leads the league in minutes played, ranks sixth in accurate passes per 90 minutes, and is seventh in expected goals (xG). Wesley’s ability to neutralize top attackers both on the ground and in the air makes her a strong candidate to fill the void left by injured defender Naomi Girma.
Pietra Tordin (Portland Thorns, attacker)
Portland Thorns attacker Pietra Tordin has posted 17 goal contributions—eight goals and nine assists—this season, forming a formidable partnership with teammate Sophia Wilson. At just 22, Tordin’s versatility across the front line and as an attacking midfielder aligns with Hayes’s desire for flexible players who can adapt to the limited roster sizes of upcoming tournaments.
Evelyn Shores (Angel City FC, left back)
Angel City FC’s left back Evelyn Shores has helped her club post the top goal differential in the NWSL (+16) while conceding only 29 goals, the fourth‑fewest in the league. Shores recorded 10 goal contributions, leading all defenders with seven assists and adding three goals of her own. Hayes highlighted her outstanding delivery into the final third, noting the rarity of a left‑footed defender with such offensive impact.
Claudia Dickey (Seattle Reign, goalkeeper)
Goalkeeper Claudia Dickey, who led the NWSL in goals prevented in 2025 and earned a Goalkeeper of the Year nomination, continued her strong play in 2026 with seven clean sheets and a fifth‑place ranking in goals prevented. The upcoming friendly will likely determine whether Dickey or former Reign keeper Phallon Tullis‑Joyce earns the starting role for the World Cup.
Additional veteran considerations
Hayes also noted the potential return of veteran forwards Sophia Wilson, Trinity Rodman and Mallory Swanson. Swanson, who rejoined the USWNT in June after a hip injury, remains a major draw for fans. While the trio’s minutes may be limited in this window, Hayes intends to give them an opportunity to play together against Spain.
With the United States aiming to set a standard ahead of the 2027 World Cup, Hayes’s focus on merit‑based selection underscores the importance of earning every minute on the field. The friendly against Spain will serve as a crucial audition for both established stars and emerging NWSL talent.
Original reporting: All Sports Feed (HLL/CB) — read the source article.
