USWNT coach Emma Hayes announced her 26-player roster 2026 SheBelieves Cup roster on Tuesday, blending European and NWSL talent as the US prepares for World Cup qualifiers this fall.
Seven Europe-based players join 19 NWSL stars on the USWNT roster. Reigning NWSL champion Gotham FC leads all teams with four selections, with Rose Lavelle, Emily Sonnett, Jaedyn Shaw, and Lilly Reale all receiving call-ups.
"Three quality games in quick succession allow us to replicate conditions that will prepare us for the World Cup qualifying campaign this fall," Hayes said in Tuesday's US Soccer statement. "As always, we want to keep developing our player pool to be more and more prepared."
The USWNT roster notably excludes several big names due to injuries and fitness concerns ahead of next month's NWSL kickoff.
Portland Thorns forward Sophia Wilson remains in post-pregnancy return-to-play protocol. Chelsea's Catarina Macario sits out with a heel injury. Additionally, midfielder Croix Bethune, defenders Avery Patterson and Emily Sams, and forward Michelle Cooper remain unavailable due to preseason knocks.
Hayes Leans on Experience in Latest USWNT Roster Drop
The selection marks a significant strategic shift for the USWNT. Hayes features zero uncapped players for the first time since the 2025 SheBelieves Cup, instead leaning into experience ahead of the 2027 World Cup qualifiers.
The SheBelieves Cup roster averages 30.4 caps per player, contrasting sharply with the 6.6 average during January's friendlies. Veterans Lindsey Heaps (170 caps), Rose Lavelle (116 caps), and Emily Sonnett (113 caps) anchor the group.
Trinity Rodman headlines the roster, as the recently re-signed Washington Spirit star gears up to earn her 50th USWNT cap.
The USWNT opens SheBelieves Cup play March 1st against Argentina in Nashville. Hayes's side then faces Canada on March 4th in Columbus, before the tournament concludes March 7th against Colombia in Harrison, New Jersey.
