USWNT Roster Takes Shape Ahead of 2027 World Cup
The roster for the U.S. women’s national team (USWNT) as they prepare for the 2027 Women’s World Cup is starting to become clearer. Head coach Emma Hayes mentioned prior to the October training camp that the players she selected would likely be the strongest candidates moving forward in World Cup qualifying.
However, the squad faced challenges, including a surprising 2-1 defeat to Portugal on October 23, which provided valuable experience for a relatively inexperienced group. Following that, the team bounced back with wins against Portugal in a rematch and New Zealand, revealing insights that a comfortable victory would not have offered.
Hayes faces difficult decisions as the USWNT continues to evolve. With some players out due to long-term injuries, the current roster is being shaped by those available. Notably, forwards Sophia Wilson and Mallory Swanson are expected to return to action after maternity leave, but Hayes will have to navigate the immediate situation with the players currently fit.
Another significant consideration is the health of defender Naomi Girma and forward Trinity Rodman, both of whom are dealing with injuries. Their exceptional talent complicates decisions about their potential inclusion, even with ongoing fitness concerns.
Understanding the USWNT Selection Process
This year, Hayes has made a point to rotate and experiment with her squad, leading her to indicate that even established players might find themselves playing with younger teams if necessary. This approach has added complexity to roster predictions, layering the selection process with uncertainty regarding player roles and tiers.
Here’s a breakdown of the categories we’ll use for the squad assessment:
- Tier 1: Locks. These are clear first-choice players vying for a starting position.
- Tier 2: In the squad. These players may not start but are dependable substitutes or bench options.
- Tier 3: On the bubble. Includes players who have been called up at the senior level or U-23s but might not make the final roster.
- Tier 4: Outside looking in. Players who have received senior or U-23 call-ups but are unlikely to feature in the final 23-player selection.
Current USWNT Projected Roster if the World Cup Started Today:
Goalkeepers: Phallon Tullis-Joyce, Claudia Dickey, Mandy McGlynn
Defenders: Emily Fox, Avery Patterson, Lilly Reale, Emily Sonnett, Naomi Girma, Emily Sams, Jordyn Bugg, Tara McKeown
Midfielders: Sam Coffey, Rose Lavelle, Lily Yohannes, Lindsey Heaps, Claire Hutton, Jaedyn Shaw
Forwards: Catarina Macario, Alyssa Thompson, Trinity Rodman, Ally Sentnor, Olivia Moultrie, Michelle Cooper
Due to the uncertainty in defense, particularly with Girma’s injury, Hayes may need to include one additional player from the defensive pool. Meanwhile, Rodman’s inclusion in the forward mix is uncertain as she recovers from a sprained MCL, which adds further pressure on forward selections. The decisions will be tough as Hayes balances talent and player form, with Moultrie providing tactical versatility that could impact future matchups.
As time progresses, the roster will likely shift with both emerging players and returning veterans. However, if the roster submission deadline were today, this would represent a promising but experimental group full of potential.
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