The U.S. roster makes history as only the second American U17 team to include professional players following the 2024 edition, and this group features three current NWSL talents.
Chicago Stars forward Micayla Johnson, Gotham FC forward Mak Whitham, and Utah Royals forward KK Ream bring valuable professional experience to the squad, with Ream having already etched her name in NWSL record books by becoming the league’s youngest goalscorer.
Goalkeepers (3): Ella McNeal, Evan O’Steen, Peyton Trayer
Defenders (6): Meila Brewer, Pearl Cecil, Natalie Chudowsky, Cali O’Neill, Olivia Robinson, Sydney Schmidt
Midfielders (6): Scottie Antonucci, Riley Kennedy, Jaiden Rodriguez, Chloe Sadler, Anastasia Showler-Little, Nyanya Touray
Forwards (6): Maddie DiMaria, Micayla Johnson, Elayna Kocher, Lauren Malsom, KK Ream, Mak Whitham
Schoepfer emphasized the significance of the moment, noting that the opportunity allows some of the country’s most promising young players to test themselves on the world stage while continuing their development within the national team pathway.
“For these players to be a part of the first 24-team U17 World Cup is a big honor, and to have so many talented players getting to showcase themselves on a world stage is a great step forward for the game,” Schoepfer said in a statement. “Our team is a united one that cares deeply about each other and representing their country.
“They are ready to play their best in this tournament, which is a vitally important part of their growth as players through our National Team programs. We sincerely appreciate the collaboration with the clubs and colleges to enable these players to have this experience.”
The tournament represents a significant milestone as the first edition to feature an expanded 24-nation field, up from the previous 16-team format used since its inception. This expansion creates a new structure with six groups of four teams each, with the top two finishers in each group plus the four best third-place teams advancing to the Round of 16.
