A new chapter of the storied history of the U.S. women’s national soccer team (USWNT) is set to unfold. After much anticipation and speculation, interim coach Twila Kilgore unveiled the highly-anticipated updated roster for the upcoming December friendlies against China.
Standout additions like National Women’s Soccer Team (NWSL) championship MVP Midge Purce and teammates Lynn Williams and Jenna Nighswonger, hailing from the NWSL championship winner Gotham FC, are at the forefront of the team’s evolution. Injecting an exhilarating blend of skill, agility, and raw talent into the roster.
Equally noteworthy is the inclusion of Jane Campbell, the formidable goalkeeper from the Houston Dash and the NWSL’s 2023 Goalkeeper of the Year. With an uncanny ability to make crucial saves under pressure, Campbell’s presence between the goalposts adds a sense of assurance to the team’s defensive line.
The announcement of the USWNT 26-player roster brings a blend of seasoned prowess and youthful exuberance.
“As we move forward with the next steps, we need more opportunities to see players from our pool in our unique National Team environment, in both training and games, so we can evaluate if and how they might contribute moving forward to the Olympics.”
USWNT Interim Coach Twila Kilgore
The absence of seasoned players like Alex Morgan, Crystal Dunn, and Alyssa Naeher adds an intriguing layer to the narrative, sparking conversations about the team’s strategic evolution. “We value these players who have recently been in camps or played in World Cup and were not chosen for this roster,” Kilgore added, “and they are, of course, still a part of our pool, but we know what they bring on, and off the field. At the same time, we also need to continue to evaluate and bring along players in the right ways to give the team the best chance for success.”
Welcome, Emma Hayes
The appointment of Chelsea manager Emma Hayes as the new head coach of the U.S. women’s national team in May 2024 marks a pivotal moment in the team’s history. Known for her tactical acumen, leadership prowess, and impressive track record with Chelsea, Hayes brings a wealth of experience to the helm.
What’s Next
While the U.S. women’s national team transforms with the infusion of new talent, the invaluable presence of seasoned players such as Rose Lavelle and Emily Sonnet and the return of Abby Dahlkemper becomes paramount. These accomplished athletes have previously showcased their prowess on the grandest stages, bringing a wealth of experience and a deep understanding of international competition.
Their leadership on and off the field will undoubtedly play a pivotal role in mentoring the younger talents and ensuring a seamless transition as the team embarks on a new era under the guidance of coaches Kilgore and Hayes.
The recent unveiling of the U.S. women’s national team’s new roster signifies a compelling blend of tradition and evolution. As fans brace themselves for the journey ahead, the USWNT’s shifting dynamics reflect the team’s commitment to sustained excellence and heralding a future laden with promise and potential on the global stage.
U.S. Women’s National Team Roster by Position (Club; Caps/Goals) – December Friendlies vs. China PR
GOALKEEPERS (3): Jane Campbell (Houston Dash; 7), Aubrey Kingsbury (Washington Spirit; 1), Casey Murphy (North Carolina Courage; 16)
DEFENDERS (7): Alana Cook (OL Reign; 29/1), Abby Dahlkemper (San Diego Wave FC; 79/0), Tierna Davidson (Chicago Red Stars; 50/1), Emily Fox (North Carolina Courage; 37/1), Naomi Girma (San Diego Wave FC; 24/0), Casey Krueger (Chicago Red Stars; 41/0), M.A. Vignola (Angel City FC; 1/0)
MIDFIELDERS (8): Korbin Albert (Paris Saint-Germain, FRA; 0/0), Sam Coffey (Portland Thorns FC; 5/0), Savannah DeMelo (Racing Louisville FC; 6/0), Lindsey Horan (Olympique Lyon, FRA; 137/30), Rose Lavelle (OL Reign; 91/24), Olivia Moultrie (Portland Thorns FC; 0/0), Jenna Nighswonger (NJ/NY Gotham FC; 0/0), Emily Sonnett (OL Reign; 81/2)
FORWARDS (8): Mia Fishel (Chelsea FC, ENG; 2/1), Ashley Hatch (Washington Spirit; 21/5), Midge Purce (NJ/NY Gotham FC; 24/4), Trinity Rodman (Washington Spirit; 26/6), Jaedyn Shaw (San Diego Wave FC; 2/1), Sophia Smith (Portland Thorns FC; 36/14), Alyssa Thompson (Angel City FC; 8/0), Lynn Williams (NJ/NY Gotham FC; 58/17)