'We still have much work to do' – Emma Hayes' USWNT to play three friendlies in October, two against Portugal, with Alex Morgan and Alyssa Naeher to be honored

USWNT returns to the pitch in October, announcing three games against Portugal and yet-to-be-named opponent

USWNT Under Emma Hayes Prepares for Crucial October Friendlies Against Portugal

The USWNT is set to build on their triumphant 2024 Olympic gold medal win with a series of high-stakes international matches this fall. Led by coach Emma Hayes, the team aims to refine their strategies and integrate new talent ahead of the 2027 qualifiers. These upcoming encounters promise thrilling action, including tributes to retiring stars, as the squad continues its evolution in women’s soccer.

  • USWNT building on recent victories over and
  • Scheduled to face Portugal and an opponent still to be revealed
  • Ready to debut at the innovative CPKC Stadium

'We still have much work to do' - Emma Hayes' USWNT to play three friendlies in October, two against Portugal, with Alex Morgan and Alyssa Naeher to be honored'We still have much work to do' - Emma Hayes' USWNT to play three friendlies in October, two against Portugal, with Alex Morgan and Alyssa Naeher to be honored'We still have much work to do' - Emma Hayes' USWNT to play three friendlies in October, two against Portugal, with Alex Morgan and Alyssa Naeher to be honored'We still have much work to do' - Emma Hayes' USWNT to play three friendlies in October, two against Portugal, with Alex Morgan and Alyssa Naeher to be honored'We still have much work to do' - Emma Hayes' USWNT to play three friendlies in October, two against Portugal, with Alex Morgan and Alyssa Naeher to be honored

Detailed Schedule for USWNT’s October International Fixtures

Following their impressive showings in recent outings, the States women’s soccer team is gearing up for a trio of friendly contests during the upcoming FIFA window. This lineup includes back-to-back clashes with a rising European powerhouse and one additional game against a rival that’s still under wraps.

Key Matchups and Locations

The action kicks off with a doubleheader against Portugal. The initial encounter is slated for October 24 at Subaru Park, located in Chester, Pennsylvania. Just two days later, on October 26, the teams will meet again at Rentschler Field in East Hartford, Connecticut. Wrapping up the series, the USWNT will host their mystery opponent on October 29 in Kansas City, marking a historic debut at CPKC Stadium – the world’s first venue purpose-built for a professional women’s soccer team, which opened in 2024 to rave reviews.

Renewing Rivalries on the Pitch

These games represent the first showdown with Portugal since their tense, scoreless stalemate during the group stage of the 2023 Women’s World Cup, which propelled the Americans into the elimination rounds. Much like that defensive battle, where both sides showcased tactical discipline akin to a high-stakes chess match, the upcoming fixtures could highlight evolving strategies in international play. With Portugal’s squad gaining momentum – evidenced by their strong qualifying campaigns and recent upsets against top teams – these matches will test the USWNT’s depth and adaptability.

Special Tributes to USWNT Icons Alex Morgan and Alyssa Naeher

Amid the competitive spirit, the October series will also celebrate the legacies of two retiring legends who have defined American soccer excellence.

Honoring Alex Morgan’s Legendary Career

Before the opening whistle on October 24, fans will witness a heartfelt retirement ceremony for forward Alex Morgan. This event holds special significance at Subaru Park, the very site where she netted her debut international goal back in 2010. Over her illustrious tenure, Morgan amassed an astounding 123 goals, including pivotal strikes in major tournaments, contributing to two World Cup titles and an Olympic gold. Her influence extends beyond the field, inspiring a new generation much like how pioneers before her elevated the sport’s global profile.

Celebrating Alyssa Naeher’s Goalkeeping Mastery

The second game against Portugal will feature a halftime spotlight on goalkeeper Alyssa Naeher, hailing from her native Connecticut. As the sole netminder in history to secure clean sheets in both a World Cup final and an Olympic decider, Naeher’s 2024 Olympic heroics – including key saves that clinched gold – further cement her status. This tribute acknowledges her 112 caps and unwavering reliability, comparable to a steadfast guardian protecting a fortress under siege.

Emma Hayes’ Vision for USWNT’s Continued Growth

In a recent announcement, head coach Emma Hayes emphasized the developmental value of these . “Facing a dynamic Portugal side eager to prove themselves will push us, yet our focus remains inward on refinement,” she noted. “The strides we’ve taken post-Olympics, with a 100% win rate in subsequent matches including dominant wins over and in late 2024, are commendable. The team has fully adopted our philosophy, but we’re acutely aware that further enhancements are essential as we approach the 2027 World Cup qualifiers.”

Balancing Club Commitments and National Duties

With the relentless pace of professional soccer, numerous USWNT athletes will dive back into club action before reconvening for the October training sessions. This juggling act underscores the demands of the modern game, where players like Sophia Smith and Trinity Rodman continue to shine in the , amassing over 20 combined goals in the 2024 season, ensuring they’re in peak form for these vital preparations.