Thrilling USWNT Comeback: Girma Leads the Charge in Emma Hayes’ Latest Squad Selection
In a much-anticipated move, USWNT coach Emma Hayes has unveiled a refreshed 26-player lineup for the upcoming friendlies against Italy, spotlighting the return of key defender Naomi Girma from Chelsea. This selection marks a pivotal moment as the team gears up for end-of-year challenges, blending seasoned veterans with emerging talents to maintain their competitive edge.
Key Highlights of the USWNT Roster Featuring Naomi Girma’s Return
This updated roster brings a dynamic mix to the USWNT, with Chelsea’s Naomi Girma stepping back into the spotlight after recovering from an injury that sidelined her during the prior FIFA period. Having appeared in only four matches for the national team in 2025-all as a starter-her presence injects much-needed stability and enthusiasm. Meanwhile, Emma Hayes is introducing newcomers like Chicago Stars’ forward Jameese Joseph and Bay FC’s goalkeeper Jordan Silkowitz, both receiving their initial invitations to the senior ranks, alongside Washington Spirit’s defender Kate Wiesner, a familiar face from U.S. youth programs.
Updates and New Dynamics in the Squad
Compared to the October friendlies, this group showcases seven distinct alterations, highlighted by the reappearance of Gotham FC’s midfielder Jaelin Howell, who hasn’t played for the U.S. since 2022. As Gotham players gear up for the NWSL Championship this weekend, Howell’s inclusion adds depth. Overall, 20 players from the NWSL make up the camp, including seven who are vying for the championship in San Jose. Standing out are Lindsey Heaps and Rose Lavelle as the most experienced members, with Heaps holding 160 appearances and 38 goals, and Lavelle with 115 appearances and 27 goals, underscoring the team’s depth of talent.
Detailed Breakdown of the USWNT Player Positions
Goalkeepers in the Lineup
Goalkeepers: Claudia Dickey (Seattle Reign FC; 4), Mandy McGlynn (Utah Royals; 4), Jordan Silkowitz (Bay FC; 0)
Defensive Lineup for the Italy Friendlies
Defenders: Jordyn Bugg (Seattle Reign FC; 4/0), Emily Fox (Arsenal FC, ENG; 69/1), Naomi Girma (Chelsea FC, ENG: 48/2), Avery Patterson (Houston Dash; 8/1), Lilly Reale (Gotham FC; 4/0), Izzy Rodriguez (Kansas City Current; 1/1), Emily Sams (Orlando Pride; 6/0), Emily Sonnett (Gotham FC; 112/2), Kennedy Wesley (San Diego Wave; 1/0), Kate Wiesner (Washington Spirit; 0/0)
Midfield Talent on Display
Midfielders: Croix Bethune (Washington Spirit; 4/0), Sam Coffey (Portland Thorns FC; 41/5), Lindsey Heaps (OL Lyonnes, FRA; 167/38), Jaelin Howell (Gotham FC; 5/1), Claire Hutton (Kansas City Current; 9/1), Rose Lavelle (Gotham FC; 115/26), Lily Yohannes (OL Lyonnes, FRA; 11/1)
Forward Options for the Matches
Forwards: Jameese Joseph (Chicago Stars; 0/0), Catarina Macario (Chelsea FC, ENG; 27/13), Olivia Moultrie (Portland Thorns FC; 10/4), Emma Sears (Racing Louisville; 11/4), Jaedyn Shaw (Gotham FC; 29/8), Alyssa Thompson (Chelsea FC, ENG; 24/3)
Historical Context of USWNT vs. Italy Encounters
Italy holds a special place as the USWNT‘s inaugural international adversary back in 1985, with the teams clashing just 15 times over the ensuing four decades. Their most recent encounter in 2011 ended in a 2-0 victory for the U.S., propelling them forward in the competition. Emma Hayes emphasizes that facing Le Azzurre serves as a crucial year-end evaluation for her squad, helping gauge their progress.
Emma Hayes’ Vision for Future Growth
“This year has been filled with thrilling achievements for our team, from reaching key milestones and broadening our roster to refining our playing style,” Hayes explained. “This training camp builds on those successes while laying the foundation for 2026, our qualifying year for the World Cup. Competing against elite European opponents provides invaluable feedback on our development, and I’m confident our athletes will rise to the occasion.”
Upcoming Fixtures for the USWNT
The USWNT kicks off their series against Italy on Friday, November 28, at Inter&Co Stadium, the home ground of the Orlando Pride. The teams will meet again on Monday, December 1, at Chase Stadium in Fort Lauderdale. These games represent the final outings for the USWNT in 2025, offering a fitting close to a year of strategic advancements.
Naomi Girma’s Return to the USWNT
Background on Naomi Girma
Naomi Girma, the talented San Diego Wave defender, is making a much-anticipated comeback to the US Women’s National Soccer Team (USWNT) roster. Known for her composure on the ball and defensive prowess, Girma has been a standout in the National Women’s Soccer League (NWSL). Her return comes after a brief absence, possibly due to injury or rotation strategies under head coach Emma Hayes. For fans of USWNT soccer, this is exciting news, as Girma’s skills could strengthen the backline for upcoming challenges like the Italy friendlies.
Girma’s journey in women’s soccer has been impressive, with her earning spots in major tournaments and gaining recognition for her leadership qualities. If you’re following USWNT updates, you might remember her key contributions in previous camps, where her ability to read the game and make precise passes has been invaluable. This selection highlights how Emma Hayes is prioritizing defensive stability as the team gears up for international play.
Emma Hayes’ 26-Player Roster Announcement
Emma Hayes, the celebrated coach who took over USWNT leadership, recently unveiled a 26-player roster packed with emerging talent and experienced veterans. This announcement for the Italy friendlies emphasizes a balance between youth development and proven performers, reflecting Hayes’ tactical philosophy of building depth for future competitions like the Olympics or World Cup qualifiers.
Key highlights of the roster include:
- Defensive Reinforcements: Alongside Naomi Girma, players like Tierna Davidson and Emily Fox are set to bolster the backline, focusing on countering Italy’s dynamic attacking style.
- Midfield and Forward Stars: Expect to see midfielders such as Lindsey Horan and Rose Lavelle, who bring creativity and control, while forwards like Sophia Smith and Mallory Swanson add speed and scoring threat.
- Goalkeeper Selections: With Phallon Tullis-Joyce omitted, the roster features reliable options like Alyssa Naeher and Casey Murphy, ensuring solid options between the posts.
This roster selection by Emma Hayes for the USWNT Italy friendlies underscores her approach to squad rotation, allowing players to gain international experience while managing fatigue from club seasons. It’s a smart move that could enhance the team’s overall performance in high-stakes matches.
Reasons Behind Key Omissions
Trinity Rodman’s Exclusion from the Roster
Trinity Rodman, the dynamic forward from the Washington Spirit, has been a fan favorite in USWNT circles due to her explosive speed and goal-scoring ability. However, her omission from this 26-player roster raises eyebrows among soccer enthusiasts. Rodman, who has been a regular in recent camps, might be sidelined due to factors like recent form or the need for rest after a demanding NWSL schedule.
It’s worth noting that such decisions by Emma Hayes often prioritize players who are currently at their peak fitness or align with specific tactical needs for the Italy friendlies. If you’re a Rodman supporter, you might be disappointed, but this could be an opportunity for her to regroup and return stronger in future USWNT selections.
Phallon Tullis-Joyce’s Omission Explained
Phallon Tullis-Joyce, the Gotham FC goalkeeper, has shown promise with her shot-stopping skills and distribution, making her a solid backup option in past rosters. Her exclusion from Emma Hayes’ latest USWNT lineup for the Italy friendlies might stem from competition in the goalkeeper position or performance evaluations.
Here’s a quick breakdown of potential reasons:
- Depth in Goalkeeping: With established stars like Alyssa Naeher dominating the spot, coaches often rotate based on form and experience.
- Tactical Fit: Hayes may be focusing on goalkeepers who excel in build-up play, which could influence selections for friendlies that test new strategies.
- Injury or Recovery: Sometimes, omissions are precautionary, allowing players like Tullis-Joyce time to recover and prepare for bigger events.
This move reflects the competitive nature of USWNT spots, where every player must continually prove their worth under Emma Hayes’ watchful eye.
Implications for the Italy Friendlies
What to Expect in the Matches
The upcoming Italy friendlies are crucial for USWNT as they provide a platform to fine-tune strategies ahead of more competitive fixtures. With Naomi Girma back in the mix, expect the defense to be more organized, potentially shutting down Italy’s attacking threats like Valentina Giacinti.
To make these games engaging, Emma Hayes might experiment with formations, such as a 4-3-3, to incorporate the roster’s strengths. Key USWNT players to watch include:
- Naomi Girma: Her return could lead to more clean sheets and better transitions.
- Midfield Dynamics: Players like Horan could dominate possession, creating opportunities for the forwards.
- Overall Team Chemistry: These friendlies are perfect for building cohesion, especially with new roster inclusions.
How This Roster Boosts USWNT’s Future
In terms of long-term growth, Emma Hayes’ choices signal a commitment to nurturing a versatile USWNT squad. By omitting players like Trinity Rodman and Phallon Tullis-Joyce, she’s creating space for others to shine, which could lead to surprising performances in the Italy friendlies. Soccer fans should keep an eye on how these decisions play out, as they might shape the team’s path in international women’s soccer.
This approach not only keeps the USWNT competitive but also ensures that emerging talents get their moment, making the sport more exciting for everyone involved. With a focus on depth and adaptability, Hayes is positioning the team for success in the evolving landscape of global competitions.
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