When Will We See Them Next. The Exciting Schedule For The USWNT This Year

When Will We See Them Next. The Exciting Schedule For The USWNT This Year

Introduction to the USWNT and their achievements

The United States Women’s National Soccer Team, commonly known as the USWNT, is one of the most successful women’s national soccer teams in the world. They have won 4 Women’s World Cup titles (1991, 1999, 2015, 2019), 4 Olympic gold medals (1996, 2004, 2008, 2012), and 8 CONCACAF Gold Cups. The USWNT is ranked #1 in the FIFA Women’s World Rankings and has held that spot for many years. They are led by veteran players like Alex Morgan, Megan Rapinoe, and Becky Sauerbrunn, as well as rising young stars like Sophia Smith and Mallory Pugh.

The USWNT has not only achieved unparalleled success on the field, but they have also been at the forefront of advancing women’s sports and championing equal rights. In 2019, all 28 members of the World Cup-winning team filed a gender discrimination lawsuit against the United States Soccer Federation over inequitable pay and working conditions compared to the men’s team. The USWNT’s fight for equality has inspired women athletes around the world.

When Will We See Them Next? The Exciting Schedule For The USWNT This Year

After their successful 2019 World Cup run, it’s an exciting time to be a USWNT fan. Even without a major international tournament this year, there are plenty of chances to see the USWNT in action in 2023 as they ramp up for the 2024 Olympics in Paris.

First up is the 2023 SheBelieves Cup, an annual invitational tournament hosted in the United States featuring four of the top women’s national teams. This year’s edition will take place in February and will include the USWNT, Canada, Japan, and Brazil competing in a round robin format. The USWNT will face Japan on February 16th in Orlando, Brazil on February 19th in Nashville, and finish up against rivals Canada on February 22nd in Frisco, Texas. As 4-time SheBelieves Cup champions, the USWNT will look to defend their title on home turf.

After the SheBelieves Cup, the USWNT will turn their focus to World Cup qualifying in the CONCACAF W Championship in July. As the #1 ranked team in the region, the USWNT will be heavily favored to win the tournament and secure their spot in the 2023 World Cup in Australia and New Zealand. The CONCACAF W Championship will likely feature group stage matches against Caribbean and Central American opponents before advancement to the knockout rounds.

The CONCACAF W Championship will also serve as Olympic qualifying for the region. The two finalists will book their tickets directly to Paris 2024. For the USWNT, anything short of qualification for both tournaments would be seen as a major disappointment given their utter dominance in the region. July promises to be an intense tournament for the USWNT with World Cup and Olympic spots on the line.

After qualifying is wrapped up, the USWNT will play a series of friendly matches in the fall as they continue to fine-tune their roster and tactics in preparation for the World Cup. These friendlies will likely feature European opponents like England, Spain, Netherlands, and Germany as the USWNT faces their biggest World Cup challengers. With stops across the US, these friendlies will give fans a chance to catch the team in action one more time before the World Cup.

Once the calendar flips to 2024, it will be full steam ahead to Paris and the Olympics. The USWNT undoubtedly has their sights set on a fifth gold medal next summer to extend their dominance atop the women’s game. There will be more friendlies against quality competition early in 2024 before the USWNT heads to France in July for the Olympics. With stars like Morgan, Rapinoe, and Heath likely suiting up for their last Olympics, the USWNT will be highly motivated to end their incredible era with one more gold.

Where To Watch

For fans stateside, there will be plenty of options to catch the USWNT in action throughout 2023 and into 2024. The SheBelieves Cup and CONCACAF W Championship will be broadcast on US soccer’s media platforms including ESPN networks. Select exhibition matches are also often picked up by ESPN and FOX Sports for wider distribution.

For cord-cutters, many USWNT matches stream on dedicated soccer platforms like Paramount+ and HBO Max which carry NWSL games. Bleacher Report Live has also emerged as a popular streaming home for US Soccer broadcasts. And of course, nothing beats catching the USWNT live in person when they come to a city near you. With stars like Morgan, Rapinoe, and rising sensation Smith leading the way, the USWNT promises to deliver exciting action all year long.

After flying under the radar in a non-tournament year, the USWNT will ramp up their schedule and intensity as they look towards the 2023 World Cup and 2024 Olympics. There are plenty of marquee matches against elite competition on the calendar where the USWNT will fine tune their high-flying offense and stingy defense. From the SheBelieves Cup in February through Olympic gold in Paris, it promises to be an exciting journey for the USWNT and their legions of loyal fans. The schedule is set and the stage is yours, USWNT.

Overview of major tournaments coming up for the USWNT

The excitement continues for U.S. soccer fans this year, as the women’s national team has a full slate of high-profile tournaments and matches on their schedule. After a thrilling 2022 that saw the USWNT capture the CONCACAF W Championship and qualify for the 2024 Olympics, what’s next for the team as they look to build momentum towards the 2023 World Cup and 2024 Olympics?

Let’s take a look at some of the major competitions and events coming up for the USWNT this year:

SheBelieves Cup (February 2023)

The annual SheBelieves Cup will be held in February 2023 as the USWNT’s first major tournament of the year. This four-team international tournament features the USWNT hosting Brazil, Canada, and Japan. The tournament’s location and specific dates have yet to be announced.

The SheBelieves Cup provides top competition against elite women’s national teams early in the year. This will be an important test for the U.S. as they continue to integrate new players into the team under head coach Vlatko Andonovski.

World Cup Qualifying Tournament (July 2023)

The 2023 World Cup qualifying tournament for the Concacaf region will take place in July 2023. This tournament will determine which Concacaf teams advance to the 2023 World Cup in Australia and New Zealand.

The details of the qualifying tournament have not been finalized yet, but the USWNT will be expected to earn one of Concacaf’s four World Cup spots. Anything less would be seen as a major disappointment. The U.S. will look to continue their utter domination of regional qualifying. They are undefeated in World Cup qualifying matches since the tournament format began in 1991.

2023 World Cup (July – August 2023)

The 2023 FIFA Women’s World Cup will take place from July 20 to August 20, 2023 at venues across Australia and New Zealand. This will be the first ever co-hosted Women’s World Cup tournament.

The USWNT will aim to lift their fifth World Cup trophy. The Americans are the defending champions after winning the 2019 World Cup in France. The field is expected to be extremely competitive, with England, Germany, France, Spain, Canada, Brazil, Japan, Netherlands, Sweden, and Norway among the contenders.

If the U.S. can triumph at this World Cup, it would be a massive accomplishment and further cement their status as the most successful women’s national team of all time.

World Cup send-off matches (May – June 2023)

In the weeks leading up to the World Cup, the USWNT will likely have a series of pretournament friendlies on home soil. These “send-off” matches are a World Cup tradition for the team.

The send-off matches allow the USWNT to fine-tune their preparations against quality opponents in front of enthusiastic American fans. They also serve as a World Cup hype machine and allow fans to show their support for the team before they head to Australia and New Zealand.

While the details of the send-off matches haven’t been announced yet, they will likely take place in May and June at major NFL and MLS stadiums across the country.

International friendlies

In addition to their tournament schedule, the USWNT will have international friendlies sprinkled throughout the year. These matches against opponents from around the world help the U.S. stay sharp and evaluate players.

Some friendlies on the horizon include a European trip to face Spain and France in April and a home tilt against Nigeria in September. A few more international friendlies will likely be added to the docket as the year goes on.

Friendlies not only tune up the team; they also give developing players chances to gain experience and build chemistry with the veterans. For devoted fans, any chance to see the USWNT in action is a treat.

2024 Olympics

Looking ahead, the 2024 Olympics in Paris will be a major focus after the World Cup. The USWNT will look to reclaim the gold medal after falling short in a disappointing quarterfinal loss to Canada at the 2020 Tokyo Olympics.

The Americans will first need to qualify for the 12-team Olympic tournament at the Concacaf Women’s Olympic Qualifying tournament, slated for early 2024. But with a World Cup title defense in the books, the USWNT will hope to be peaking at the perfect time to capture Olympic glory in Paris.

It’s going to be an exciting year for the USWNT and their fans. If you want to see superstars like Alex Morgan, Megan Rapinoe, and Becky Sauerbrunn pursue more World Cup and Olympic glory, there will be plenty of chances. This talented American squad faces high expectations, but they have shown time and again that they can handle the big stage. With the World Cup and Olympics on the horizon, the USWNT will look to add to their unprecedented legacy of success.

SheBelieves Cup dates and opponents

Soccer fans rejoice – the US Women’s National Team is back in action in 2023 for the SheBelieves Cup! This annual invitational tournament hosted by U.S. Soccer brings together some of the best women’s national teams in the world for exciting matchups. After a thrilling 2022 that saw the USWNT capture the CONCACAF W Championship title, expectations are high for this squad heading into the World Cup next summer. Let’s take a look at when and who the USWNT will be facing in the 2023 SheBelieves Cup.

When Will We See Them Next? The Exciting Schedule For The USWNT This Year

The seventh edition of the SheBelieves Cup will take place from February 16-22, 2023 at venues in Orlando, Nashville and Frisco. The tournament kicks off on February 16 with Brazil taking on co-host Japan at Exploria Stadium in Orlando. The USWNT will then make their 2023 debut on February 19 against Canada at the same venue. The round-robin tournament wraps up on February 22 with the USWNT facing Japan at Toyota Stadium in Frisco, Texas.

Beyond the SheBelieves Cup, the USWNT has a series of friendlies scheduled as they continue to prep for the 2023 FIFA Women’s World Cup. They’ll face New Zealand on May 16 in St. Louis, before taking on Colombia on June 7 in Utah. After another matchup against a to-be-determined opponent in Connecticut on June 10, the US heads to Europe to take on Spain on June 13 and Norway on June 16. The final World Cup tuneup match will be against Nigeria on July 1 in Kansas City.

Of course, all eyes are looking ahead to the World Cup itself which runs from July 20 to August 20, 2023 across Australia and New Zealand. The USWNT will be hungry to reclaim the title after a disappointing quarterfinal exit in 2019. They are the top-ranked team heading into the tournament and are expected to go far. It all starts with a strong showing in the SheBelieves Cup against some of the world’s elite.

Who Will the USWNT Face in the 2023 SheBelieves Cup?

Joining the United States as participants in the 2023 SheBelieves Cup are Canada, Japan, and Brazil. This represents an exciting field that will provide a good test for the USWNT leading into the World Cup.

Canada is currently ranked 6th in the world and will be hoping for a better outcome after failing to medal at the 2020 Olympics on home soil. Led by star forward Christine Sinclair and midfielder Jessie Fleming, Canada defeated the USWNT 1-0 in their last meeting at the Olympics and will aim to repeat that feat. With Canada co-hosting the World Cup, they’ll look to gain momentum in the SheBelieves Cup.

Co-hosts Japan sit at 11th in the world rankings and will be excited to play in front of their home fans. While they have struggled at times since winning the 2011 World Cup, Japan is always a technically skilled side with the ability to pull off upsets. Veterans like Saki Kumagai and Mizuho Sakaguchi provide leadership, while young forwards like Riko Ueki look to make their mark. This will be a good early test for Japan’s World Cup preparations.

Finally, Brazil brings their Samba style as the 9th ranked team in the world. Led by six-time FIFA Player of the Year Marta, they reached the quarterfinals of the 2019 World Cup and will aim to showcase their flair in the SheBelieves Cup. Dynamic young players like Debinha and Geyse add goal-scoring punch and creativity up front. While Brazil sometimes battles consistency issues, their talent makes them a threat on any given day.

The 2023 SheBelieves Cup has assembled a world-class field that will provide a great pre-World Cup test for the top-ranked USWNT. With elite opponents in Canada, Japan and Brazil, there will be little room for error as the US looks to win the tournament on home soil. After an intense schedule of friendlies throughout the year, this will be the last major competition before the World Cup. Players like Alex Morgan, Megan Rapinoe and Becky Sauerbrunn will need to be at their best to lead the US to victory and build momentum toward the main goal in Australia/New Zealand.

It all starts with that opening match on February 19 when the USWNT takes the pitch at Exploria Stadium to face regional rivals Canada. From there they’ll look to apply lessons learned against Japan and Brazil as well. Soccer fans should circle those SheBelieves Cup dates on the calendar and get ready to cheer on the Red, White and Blue this February!

Preview of USWNT’s SheBelieves Cup roster

The countdown is on for the 2023 SheBelieves Cup, where the US Women’s National Team will take the field against Canada, Japan, and Brazil in February. This annual 4-team tournament has become a key part of the USWNT’s preparation for major competitions like the World Cup. With the tournament just weeks away, all eyes are on head coach Vlatko Andonovski as anticipation builds around who will make the roster.

Andonovski has consistently emphasized that every roster spot must be earned through performance. That means some veterans could potentially be left off the SheBelieves Cup squad if they haven’t shown their best in recent camps and matches. At the same time, emerging young talent could force their way into the mix with strong preseason play at the club level.

As the coaching staff finalizes their decisions, let’s take a look at who is likely to be on the plane to Orlando and Nashville for the USWNT’s opening matches of 2023.

The Roster Locks

Barring injury, there are several USWNT players who can feel very confident about their place on the SheBelieves Cup roster. This starts with team captain Becky Sauerbrunn, the veteran leader of the backline who shows no signs of slowing down at age 37. Joining her as locks are defender Emily Sonnett, midfielders Lindsey Horan and Rose Lavelle, and forwards Alex Morgan, Sophia Smith, and Megan Rapinoe.

These players have been fixtures in the starting lineup under Andonovski when healthy and at their best. They provide the right blend of experience, talent, leadership, and consistency that any coach wants from their core group. Barring a massive drop in form or fitness over the next month, these are firm roster locks.

The Young Guns

One of the most exciting storylines around the USWNT has been the emergence of several dynamic young players over the past year. Andonovski has made it clear that he wants to integrate youth into the team’s leadership core. That means prospects like Trinity Rodman, Naomi Girma, and Mallory Pugh are also virtual roster certainties at this point.

Rodman quickly established herself as the breakout star of 2022, bringing speed, creativity, and fearlessness to the attack. Girma was a stabilizing presence on the backline in her first year with the team, showcasing great poise and distribution skills. And Pugh has finally translated her immense talent into consistent production. These rising talents have earned their place in the team’s plans.

Bubble Watch

As always, there are a handful of roster spots up for grabs among players on the fringe battling to make their case. Veterans like Kelley O’Hara, Kristie Mewis, and Ashley Hatch have been USWNT regulars but will need to prove themselves again after up-and-down 2022 seasons. Younger players like Carson Pickett, Emily Fox, and Andi Sullivan are hungry for more opportunity to break through into a consistent role.

Injuries also complicate matters. Would-be roster certainties like Tierna Davidson, Catarina Macario, Sam Mewis and Lynn Williams are all coming back from injury layoffs and may not be match fit in time. Their health status will be closely monitored. Plenty could change, but expect O’Hara, Kristie Mewis, Sullivan, Fox, Pickett, and Hatch to be right on the bubble heading into January camp.

New Faces

Finally, there’s always room for a few surprise call-ups in any USWNT roster. Andonovski has been blunt about keeping the player pool open – no one can afford to get too comfortable. There are several uncapped prospects who could get the chance to make their senior debut as part of the SheBelieves Cup squad.

Players like Jaelin Howell, Sophie Smith, and Abby Cook have shown great promise and could provide needed depth in certain areas. Veterans like Casey Krueger and McCall Zerboni offer experience if the team opts to lean more in that direction. And with four allocated roster spots still available after the NWSL Draft, a newly signed player could quickly enter the mix.

While the core roster group seems settled, there’s still room for a few new faces to get the call from Andonovski to be part of the SheBelieves Cup. It will be exciting to see if any prospects can capitalize on that opportunity.

The 2023 SheBelieves Cup promises to be a great preview of what’s to come for the USWNT in the leadup to the World Cup. And it all starts with the eagerly anticipated roster unveil from Andonovski. Veterans, rising stars, bubble players, and rookies alike will be tuned in to see who makes the cut. The competition for places promises to be fierce as the USWNT starts the year strong.

Analysis of USWNT’s chances in the SheBelieves Cup

With the tournament just weeks away, it’s time to take a deep dive into the US Women’s National Team’s prospects of winning the 2023 SheBelieves Cup. This annual 4-team competition serves as an important barometer leading into the World Cup. How does the US stack up against Canada, Japan, and Brazil this time around? Let’s break it down.

Where Does the USWNT Stand Heading into the Tournament?

There’s no doubt the US enters as favorites after climbing back to #1 in the FIFA rankings. This squad is loaded with veteran experience and rising young talent. However, the Americans looked surprisingly vulnerable at times in 2022 despite ultimately capturing the CONCACAF W Championship title.

Injuries have robbed them of key players like Catarina Macario, Sam Mewis, and Tierna Davidson for extended periods. Yet even when close to full strength, the cohesion and killer instinct has been lacking in certain games. The early Olympic exit in 2021 still lingers as a warning. Simply being the USWNT isn’t enough – this group needs to prove itself again.

Just How Tough Will Canada Pose a Threat?

On paper, Canada looks like the biggest threat to US hopes of winning the SheBelieves Cup. They played the Americans tight last year and have the benefit of a deep domestic talent pool to draw from. Homefield advantage could also be a factor when they face off in Orlando.

Yet Canada has battled inconsistency issues of their own on the biggest stages recently. They failed to medal at a home Olympics in 2021 and fell flat at the Concacaf W Championship in 2022. Unless captain Christine Sinclair and company find their best form, Canada may once again come up short.

What Kind of Challenge Will Brazil Bring?

Even in their veteran years, Marta and Co. can never be discounted. Brazil’s free-flowing attack is always a tricky matchup. However, there are also real questions about their defending, especially on set pieces.

During the Olympics, Brazil leaned heavily on an emotional surge to reach the knockouts. The USWNT is too seasoned of a squad to get pulled into a track meet. If the midfield can control possession and tempo, the Americans should handle Brazil.

Will Japan’s Technical Ability Test the USWNT?

While not as deep as Brazil or Canada, Japan is always a feisty opponent especially on home soil. Veterans like Saki Kumagai and Yui Hasegawa know how to pick apart defenses with crisp passing. If the US has any letdown in focus or effort, Japan is skilled enough to make them pay.

However, Japan’s own suspect defending likely can’t hold up for a full 90 minutes against the Americans’ attacking talent. The key will be avoiding any big mental lapses that allow Japan to grab momentum. Do that and the US should overpower them.

Just How Vulnerable is the USWNT Right Now?

For all the questions facing the USWNT, it’s important to keep perspective. In terms of talent and experience, they still rate as the favorites against any opponent when playing well. The core pieces are still in place to make a deep World Cup run.

That said, there are definitely some cracks in the armor. The loss of Julie Ertz leaves a hole in midfield defense and leadership. Problems finishing chances plagued them at times last year. And turnover on the coaching staff adds uncertainty.

The SheBelieves Cup is a chance for the US to silence the doubters and prove they are still the team to beat on the global stage. Anything less than a tournament victory would be seen as a disappointment given the high standards this squad sets.

What Starting Lineup Gives the USWNT the Best Chance?

Finding the right mix will be critical if the USWNT hopes to fulfill expectations. The backline likely features Sauerbrunn, Sonnett, and O’Hara, with Girma also in contention. Horan and Lavelle should anchor the midfield. Up top, Morgan, Smith, Rapinoe, and Rodman give lots of speed and creativity.

The key could be finding the right partner for Horan in midfield to provide defensive cover. Andonovski has options with Mewis, Sullivan, or Ertz if she can return in time. Getting the midfield balance right would go a long way toward US success.

Make no mistake, the USWNT faces questions heading into the 2023 SheBelieves Cup. But the blend of talent and championship experience still makes them the deserved favorites. Get through this test, and the Americans will once again assert themselves as the team to beat in the push toward World Cup glory.

CONCACAF W Championship details and qualification impact

The CONCACAF W Championship held last July served as a major proving ground for the region’s top women’s national teams. Beyond continental bragging rights, the tournament determined World Cup qualification and Olympic spots. For the US Women’s National Team, it was a chance to show they were still the class of CONCACAF. Let’s examine how it all played out.

What Was at Stake in the CONCACAF W Championship?

With direct slots to the 2023 World Cup and 2024 Olympics up for grabs, the stakes were high. The top two finishers would clinch bids to next summer’s World Cup in Australia/New Zealand. Meanwhile, the tournament winner would also secure a spot in the Olympics.

For perennial powers like the US and Canada, the pressure was on to affirm their dominance. Mexico, Costa Rica, Jamaica and others aimed for a potential massive breakthrough.

Where Did the Tournament Take Place and Who Participated?

Held from July 4-18, 2022, the CONCACAF W Championship was hosted at Estadio BBVA in Monterrey, Mexico. All eight teams in the confederation participated in the tournament.

Joining hosts Mexico and regional stalwarts USA and Canada were Jamaica, Costa Rica, Panama, Haiti, and Trinidad & Tobago. With World Cup and Olympic dreams on the line, motivation was high across the board.

How Did Things Play Out in the Group Stage?

The opening round saw the eight teams placed into two round-robin groups of four teams each. As expected, the USWNT topped Group A, with Canada right behind them at 2-1. Costa Rica’s 1-2 mark was enough to edge Jamaica (0-3) for the final semifinal place.

Group B went mostly to form as well. Mexico predictably finished first at 3-0. Haiti managed a second place finish despite an 0-3 record based on tiebreakers. With identical 1-2 records, Jamaica and Trinidad & Tobago drew lots for the final spot with Jamaica prevailing.

Who Advanced to the Knockout Rounds?

With the top two teams in each group moving on, the semifinal matchups were set: USA vs Costa Rica and Canada vs Jamaica. Mexico and Haiti were eliminated despite finishing second in their groups.

The US had dominated group stage play, outscoring opponents 6-0 over three matches. Canada bounced back from an opening loss to the USWNT to make the semis. Costa Rica and Jamaica pulled off upsets just by reaching this far.

How Did the Semifinals Play Out?

In the first semifinal, the USWNT left no doubt with a clinical 3-0 dismantling of Costa Rica. Goals from Rodman, Morgan and Lavelle carried the Americans to the championship final.

Canada edged Jamaica on goals in extra time to advance. Both teams battled to a 0-0 stalemate through 90 minutes before Canada’s Fleming broke the deadlock in the 96th minute and Beckie added an insurance goal.

Who Came Out on Top in the Highly Anticipated USA vs Canada Final?

The tournament title and sole World Cup/Olympic spot came down to the championship grudge match between regional heavyweights USA and Canada. In a hotly contested affair, the US emerged with a hard-fought 1-0 victory.

The difference came in the 74th minute courtesy of Alex Morgan’s glancing header off a Megan Rapinoe free kick. Canada had their chances but could not break through in the end as the US held on.

What Was the Final Outcome of the CONCACAF W Championship?

The USWNT achieved their primary objective, booking trips to both the 2023 World Cup and 2024 Olympics by winning it all. For Canada, the runner-up finish secured World Cup qualification but fell short of Olympic qualification.

Costa Rica’s gutsy performance landed them in a two-leg intercontinental World Cup playoff against New Zealand for one last chance to make the big dance. Jamaica and Haiti earned spots in the Olympic play-in tournaments.

In the end, the CONCACAF W Championship played out largely as expected. But it did produce some memorable moments and tight games along the way before the USWNT eventually prevailed.

What Was the Wider Impact on World Cup Qualifying?

With two direct World Cup bids, the US and Canada can now focus fully on preparation for Australia/New Zealand 2023. Their CONCACAF W Championship run provided a good assessment of where improvements are still needed.

For Costa Rica, they came agonizingly close to punching their first ever World Cup ticket. They’ll hope the experience gained serves them well heading into the playoff versus New Zealand.

All in all, the CONCACAF W Championship set the stage for the region’s hopeful World Cup participants. Now the preparation begins in earnest to make some noise on the global stage next summer.

Preview of USWNT’s potential CONCACAF W Championship roster

Hey friends, can you believe it’s almost time for the CONCACAF W Championship already? This summer tournament is going to be a big one for the US Women’s National Team. Not only is it a chance for them to win a regional title, but it also serves as qualifying for the 2023 World Cup and 2024 Olympics. The stakes are high!

The USWNT roster is always a hot topic of debate among fans. With so many talented players, coach Vlatko Andonovski has some tough choices to make when picking his squad. While the official roster likely won’t be announced for a few more weeks, we can make some educated guesses about who might be on it based on recent call-ups and interviews.

Let’s start with the forwards, which is probably the deepest position for the USWNT. Of course you can expect to see stars like Alex Morgan, Megan Rapinoe, and Sophia Smith. They are virtual locks to make the team if healthy. Other veteran forwards likely include Carli Lloyd, Christen Press, and Lynn Williams. Then you have emerging talents like Ashley Hatch, Mallory Pugh, and Trinity Rodman who are hoping to secure roster spots.

In the midfield, players like Lindsey Horan, Rose Lavelle, and Kristie Mewis seem like safe bets. Sam Mewis is still recovering from injury but could still make the cut. Andi Sullivan, Catarina Macario, and Ashley Sanchez are among the younger midfield options in the mix. Veteran McCall Zerboni is another player who brings grit and leadership that could appeal to the coaching staff.

On defense, team captain Becky Sauerbrunn and Tierna Davidson seem likely to command starting roles. Emily Sonnett, Kelley O’Hara, Emily Fox, and Alana Cook are also good bets for the backline. Case Cookus and Sofia Huerta have gotten consistent call-ups lately as well. And at goalkeeper, Alyssa Naeher and Casey Murphy are the favorites to make the roster and split time in net.

It’s always possible a surprise player or two make the team who weren’t initially on the radar. Coach Andonovski likes to give new faces a shot. But based on the latest USWNT cycles, this group seems like a strong preliminary prediction of who we’ll see at the CONCACAF W Championship this July. The official roster should be announced in early June leading up to the tournament.

Of course, injuries and form over the next few weeks can always alter the roster. But now that the NWSL is in full swing, Andonovski and his staff can get an even better look at players before finalizing their choices. It’s an exciting time determining who will represent the United States as they look to qualify for the World Cup and Olympics!

What do you think of these predictions? Who else do you hope to see on the USWNT qualifying roster this summer? Let me know in the comments!

When Will We See Them Next? The Exciting Schedule For The USWNT This Year

If you can’t get enough of the US Women’s National Team, then you’re in luck because the USWNT has an action-packed schedule of games and tournaments this year. From World Cup qualifying to intriguing friendlies to the CONCACAF W Championship, there will be plenty of opportunities to watch soccer’s most popular team in 2023.

Here’s a rundown of the key events and competitions coming up for the USWNT:

SheBelieves Cup – February 2023

The annual SheBelieves Cup kicks off the USWNT’s competitive year in February. This four-team round robin tournament features some of the best teams in women’s soccer. The 2023 field includes the USA, Canada, Japan, and Brazil. With World Cup qualifying just months away, the SheBelieves Cup serves as a crucial test for the USWNT player pool.

CONCACAF W Championship – July 2023

The CONCACAF W Championship this summer will double as World Cup and Olympic qualifying for the region. The USWNT will battle arch-rivals Canada and Mexico among others for one of the coveted direct berths to the 2023 World Cup in Australia and New Zealand. Winning the CONCACAF Championship would also clinch a spot at the 2024 Olympics in Paris.

World Cup Send-Off Series – August/September 2023

After qualifying wraps up, the USWNT will ramp up their preparations for the World Cup with several high-profile friendlies on home soil. The Send-Off Series will likely feature matches against the likes of England, Germany, France or other elite opponents. These games help fine-tune the team against World Cup-caliber foes.

FIFA Women’s World Cup – July/August 2023

The grand finale of the USWNT’s 2023 campaign will be the World Cup next summer. The USA is eyeing a third straight appearance in the final, and a record fourth title. If victorious, it would cement this team’s legacy as one of the greatest squads in soccer history. With stars like Alex Morgan, Lindsey Horan and Becky Sauerbrunn leading the way, the Americans expect to be contending for that coveted trophy.

Beyond this schedule, we could see more USWNT friendlies arranged throughout the year against visiting opponents. The nationwide Victory Tour is also likely to return in Fall 2023 to celebrate the World Cup team and connect them with adoring fans.

So as you can see, there is tons to look forward to with the USWNT in 2023. Block off your calendars now and get ready to cheer on America’s team. It’s going to be another unforgettable year for US women’s soccer!

Let me know which USWNT games and tournaments you’re most excited about in the comments. I can’t wait to follow along and root for the Red, White and Blue!

USWNT’s friendly matches scheduled before major tournaments

How’s it going, soccer fans? With the USWNT’s jam-packed schedule of major tournaments this year, you know they’ll need to play some tune-up matches to get ready. These friendly games right before big events are always interesting to keep an eye on.

The coaching staff uses these pre-tournament friendlies to test out lineups, build chemistry, and get the team firing on all cylinders before the real competition starts. The opponents are often top-quality teams too, so the matches give the USWNT vital experience against elite competition.

Friendlies before the World Cup or Olympics are extra important. The USWNT wants to be battle-tested before heading into those pressure cooker tournaments. So what can we expect in terms of warmup games this year?

Based on past years, I’d expect 2-3 friendlies in the 1-2 months leading up to the World Cup. The opponents will likely be former World Cup champs or medal contenders. We could see matchups with Germany, Japan, Sweden, France, Netherlands, or Brazil.

These World Cup tuneup games tend to take place on U.S. soil too so American fans can easily attend. Cities like Los Angeles, New York, and Chicago are frequent hosts. The venues will be rocking as excitement builds for the main event.

I’d also anticipate a couple friendlies before the CONCACAF Championship this summer, which serves as World Cup qualifying. Facing Canada right before the tournament would make sense. A clash with a rising European side like Spain could happen too.

Coach Vlatko Andonovski will use these games to finalize his World Cup roster. Players on the bubble will get one last chance to impress before he makes the final cuts. So the competition for spots will be fierce!

Seeing young prospects get a shot against a top opponent is always fun as well. It’s a peek into the USWNT’s future stars. Maybe we’ll even uncover a new breakout player who ends up making the World Cup squad.

Beyond testing personnel and tactics, these pre-tournament friendlies are just exciting matchups in their own right. Who doesn’t love seeing the USWNT face off against elite teams? The energy levels will be sky-high.

I hope the federation can schedule at least one or two of these tuneup games in smaller cities too. Not just the huge markets. It would give fans in less-visited areas a rare chance to watch the USWNT in person.

No matter where these matches are played, I know I’ll be tuned in! After following the NWSL and various tournaments, it’ll be great to see the USWNT together again before the World Cup.

These friendly games are the culmination of the team’s build-up and a final chance to prepare. They really set the table for the rest of the year. I can’t wait to see who the USWNT faces off against in their last tuneups before the bright lights come on.

What opponent would you most want to see the USWNT play in a World Cup or Olympics warmup match? Canada and Germany would be my top choices. Let me know yours in the comments!

However the schedule shakes out, you know the USWNT will be ready to shine when it matters most at the World Cup and beyond. These pre-tournament friendlies will make sure of it. Get ready for some intense matchups!

Predictions on how the USWNT will perform this year

Alright friends, time for some bold predictions about our US Women’s National Team! With a stacked schedule of tournaments and qualifiers this year, how will the USWNT fare?

As defending World Cup champs eyeing a record third straight title, expectations are sky-high as usual. But the competition is hungry for an upset. Let’s dive into some fearless forecasting!

CONCACAF W Championship

First up is the CONCACAF W Championship this summer, which serves as World Cup qualifying. I predict the USWNT will finish top of the group, maybe dropping points once in the group stage. They’ll want to make a statement and build momentum headed into the World Cup.

The semifinals will be tricky against a scrappy Central American side, but the USWNT’s depth and flair will prevail. And it’ll be a classic battle with rival Canada for the trophy. But the USWNT takes it 2-1 to qualifiy for the World Cup on a high.

World Cup Group Stage

With qualification assured, attention shifts Down Under. The USWNT will land in a tough World Cup group, maybe with Sweden and Nigeria. But they have the talent and experience to win the group.

I foresee a shocking draw against Sweden after a slow start. But that lights a fire under the team’s belly. The USWNT rebounds with convincing victories over Nigeria and a feisty third opponent to win the group.

World Cup Knockout Rounds

Here’s where it gets real interesting! The USWNT draws a strong test in the Round of 16 versus the Netherlands. It’s a tight, physical battle but the Americans advance on penalties.

The quarters feature a showdown with Olympic champion Canada. The USWNT exorcises those demons from 2020 with a gritty 1-0 win to reach the semis.

France or Germany await in the semis in a thriller. The USWNT shows their championship poise and punches their ticket to the final!

World Cup Final

This is the big one! No surprise, I’m predicting the USWNT will be playing for a fourth star against the home crowd favorites Australia. Over 100k fans will be against them.

It’s a rollicking, back-and-forth affair through 90 minutes. In extra time, a young super sub scores the winner! The USWNT defeats the Matildas 2-1 to claim their record fourth World Cup title!

The team celebrates long into the night, capping off an unforgettable year. They return home to parades and bring home the trophy once again!

So those are my bold predictions! Do you think they can actually pull it off? Or will their championship reign finally come to an end? I wanna hear your gutsy forecasts too!

No matter what happens, one thing is for sure – it’s going to be a wild ride watching the USWNT this year. I can’t wait for all the thrilling moments in store.

This team just knows how to rise to the occasion when it matters most. I believe they have the drive and talent to conquer the world again. It won’t come easy, but brace yourself for a memorable, triumphant run!

Let me know in the comments what you think will go down. Will 2023 end in USWNT glory? Or heartbreak? Either way, it’s gonna be a fun journey watching it all unfold. Go USA!

Spotlight on key USWNT players to watch

Hey soccer fans! With the USWNT’s exciting schedule of games and tournaments this year, I wanted to highlight some key players to keep an eye on.

This incredible team is stacked with world-class talent at every position. But a few players, in particular, should have breakout opportunities in 2023. Let’s check out who they are!

Sophia Smith

The Portland Thorns striker is coming off a dominant NWSL season where she won MVP honors at just 22 years old. With blazing speed and clinical finishing, Smith is ready to spearhead the USWNT attack for years to come. This could be her true breakout on the world stage.

Trinity Rodman

Talk about bursting onto the scene! The 2021 NWSL Rookie of the Year instantly became one of the most dangerous attackers in the league. Still just 20 years old, Rodman will be unleashed on opponents all year for club and country. Expect fireworks.

Mallory Pugh

Now with Chicago Red Stars, Pugh has a chance to rediscover her best form after some injury setbacks. Her pace and creativity on the wing make her a mismatch for any defender. Pugh has shone for the USWNT in the past and could do so again in 2023.

Emily Fox

Fox has locked down the left back spot for the USWNT with her tireless runs up the flank. The NC Courage standout perfectly balances defense and attack. She adds crucial width to the USWNT and her profile will only grow this year.

Ashley Sanchez

The Washington Spirit playmaker is one of the most technical midfielders in the USWNT pool. Her vision and passing range can unlock defenses. If she gets more minutes, Sanchez could become a vital creative force in the middle of the park.

Naomi Girma

This Stanford-developed center back looks like the heir to Becky Sauerbrunn. Girma was a revelation for the San Diego Wave FC as a rookie. She is silky smooth on the ball and wise beyond her years defensively. Girma could cement herself as a USWNT starter in 2023.

Those are just a few of the rising talents who could take the leap this year! The USWNT player pool is brimming with exciting young players pushing for time.

Of course, USWNT legends like Alex Morgan, Megan Rapinoe, Becky Sauerbrunn and Alyssa Naeher will still play crucial leadership roles. Their championship poise will be vital.

But the injection of emerging stars could take the USWNT attack to new heights. And young defenders like Girma and Fox provide continuity for the future.

It will be fun tracking how these players perform at the SheBelieves Cup, World Cup qualifying, and beyond. Their continued development will be key to USWNT success in 2023 and preparing for the 2024 Olympics.

Let me know who you think will have a big year for the red, white and blue! There’s so much rising talent that the future remains incredibly bright. Go USA!

How to watch the USWNT live on TV and streaming

Great news, USWNT fans! With the team’s stacked schedule this year, there will be plenty of opportunities to tune in and watch our women’s national team live.

Between tournament qualifiers, international friendlies, and the World Cup, you won’t want to miss a minute of the action. Here’s a guide on how to catch all the USWNT games on TV and streaming.

Television Broadcasts

Many USWNT matches will be aired live on major TV networks. For home friendlies and World Cup qualifiers, Fox Sports 1 is usually the go-to channel. Their coverage of USWNT games is excellent.

Big tournaments like the World Cup are often broadcast on Fox or FS1. But sometimes ESPN/ABC or other networks obtain the rights. Check the match schedule to see which channel is airing each game.

If you don’t have cable, no worries! Major streaming platforms like YouTube TV, Hulu Live, and Sling TV carry FS1, ESPN, ABC, and other popular sports channels to watch live.

Streaming Options

Even without a cable subscription, there are great streaming options to watch the USWNT online. HBO Max will be streaming many live games and replays in 2023 as part of their new deal with U.S. Soccer.

Paramount+ is another good option, especially for NWSL games featuring USWNT stars. They provide live streams for many national team friendlies too.

And U.S. Soccer’s own streaming platform, ussoccer.com, will air some exclusive USWNT content and smaller friendlies you won’t find elsewhere.

Attending Live

When it comes to the World Cup, obviously getting tickets and traveling to Australia will be the only way to see it live. But for home games and tournaments like SheBelieves Cup, going in person is a great option!

Keep an eye out for when tickets go on sale for USWNT friendlies near you. NWSL games are also a great chance to cheer on USWNT players with their pro clubs. Nothing beats the live atmosphere.

Watch Parties

If you can’t make it to a game, look up local soccer bars or USWNT watch parties in your city. Gathering with fellow fans to cheer on the team is always a blast.

Check USWNT fan groups on social media to find viewing parties in your area. Throw one yourself even! Break out the red, white and blue gear and enjoy the camaraderie.

So in summary, you’ve got plenty of options to catch the USWNT in action. Whether on TV, streaming online, in-person, or at watch parties, enjoy the front-row seat to all the excitement this year! Let’s go USA!

What’s your recommended way to watch the USWNT? Share your game day tips and tricks in the comments! I can’t wait to follow along with you superfans all year.

Full schedule breakdown of all upcoming USWNT matches

Hey USWNT fans, are you ready for a jam-packed schedule of games? From World Cup qualifying to tuneup friendlies to the main event, there’s so much exciting action on tap.

Let’s dive into the full rundown of upcoming matches and tournaments so you can mark your calendars now. Trust me, you won’t want to miss any of the fun!

February 2023 – SheBelieves Cup

The SheBelieves Cup kicks off the USWNT schedule as always. This four team round-robin tournament features the USA, Canada, Brazil and Japan competing in some fierce matchups.

The doubleheader event will take place at venues across the U.S. Expect epic crowd atmospheres as the USWNT tunes up for World Cup qualifying this summer.

June 2023 – World Cup Qualifying

Next up is the CONCACAF W Championship which serves as World Cup qualifying. The USWNT will battle regional rivals like Canada and Mexico for one of the automatic bids to the 2023 World Cup.

With the tournament taking place in Mexico, the away fixtures will be tough tests. But the USWNT will be focused on finishing top of their group and sealing their spot in Australia/New Zealand.

July/August 2023 – World Cup Send-Off Series

Once World Cup qualification is secured, the USWNT will ramp up preparations with a series of home friendlies against elite competition. These Send-Off matches give the team vital experience right before the big tournament.

Expect World Cup participants like France, England, Netherlands, Brazil and Canada to all feature. It’ll be a sneak preview of what’s to come Down Under.

July/August 2023 – FIFA Women’s World Cup

The grand finale! The USWNT heads to Australia and New Zealand looking to lift the World Cup trophy for a record fourth time. They likely have to get through rivals like Germany, Japan and the host Aussies to do so.

The month-long tournament culminates in the World Cup Final which could see the USWNT playing in front of over 100k fans if Australia makes it. Will the USA emerge victorious again?

And that wraps up the key events! Additional friendlies will likely be sprinkled in around these major tournaments too. With so much talent, the USWNT will want as many test matches together as possible before the World Cup.

There you have the full rundown! What games and tournaments are you most excited for on the USWNT schedule? Let me know in the comments. This is going to be an incredible year for the Red, White and Blue.

So get your calendars marked and your watch parties planned. We’ve got a thrilling slate of USWNT action ahead. I can’t wait to cheer on the team with all of you superfans!

Details on highly anticipated matchups and rivalries

One of the best parts of following the USWNT is getting pumped up for those marquee matchups against top rivals. With the team’s stacked schedule this year, there are plenty of epic showdowns to look forward to!

Let’s break down some of the key rivalries and highly anticipated games in store for the USWNT in 2023.

USA vs Canada

No bigger rivalry exists right now than the one between the U.S. and Canada women’s national teams. These two powerhouses seem to clash in every major tournament, often with a trophy on the line.

At the CONCACAF W Championship this summer, which serves as World Cup qualifying, you know the USA and Canada will be on a collision course. With just two direct berths to the World Cup up for grabs, expect fireworks.

And it would be shocking if the USWNT and Canada didn’t meet at some point in the World Cup knockout rounds too. Their quarterfinal match in 2020 was an instant classic. Another high-stakes showdown seems inevitable next summer!

USA vs Sweden

Sweden has long been a tricky foe for the USWNT. They tend to play a physical, compact style that frustrates the Americans. And Sweden has knocked the USWNT out of major tournaments before.

If they end up paired together in the World Cup group stage, you know it’ll be a must-watch matchup. The USWNT will be keen to make a statement against the always pesky Swedes.

USA vs Germany

For many years, clashes with Germany were essentially the de facto title matches in women’s soccer. The two powerhouses have gone back-and-forth hoisting trophies.

They seem destined to collide again at the World Cup, either in the knockouts or perhaps even the final. The USWNT overcoming their German rivals to lift the trophy would be a storybook ending.

USA vs France

Les Bleues have emerged in recent years as serious challengers, winning the 2019 World Cup on home soil. The USWNT had to go through France in the quarters that year, prevailing 2-1 in a nailbiter.

Another quarterfinal or semifinal clash seems likely next summer. The Americans will be eager to knock off the upstart French yet again on the global stage.

Those are just a few of the juicy matchups in store! When you combine the USWNT’s talent with their arch-rivals, the drama is guaranteed. Get ready for some epic showdowns and rivalry games this year!

What matchup are you most anticipating? Let me know in the comments! There will be no shortage of thrills whenever the USWNT faces their top foes.

Impact of 2023 World Cup qualification on the USWNT

Alright folks, with the CONCACAF W Championship coming up this summer, let’s talk about the importance of World Cup qualification for the US Women’s National Team.

After the disappointing early exit in Rio 2016, missing the next World Cup simply isn’t an option. The USWNT will be laser-focused on booking their spot at Australia/New Zealand 2023 and putting on a better showing.

Qualifying first and foremost just provides that peace of mind. The USWNT avoids having to go through inter-confederation playoffs simply to make the World Cup. They can fully set their sights on preparing for the main event.

Taking care of business at qualifying also perpetuates that winning culture. It gets the momentum rolling into the World Cup on a high note. That confidence and swagger can be invaluable at the big dance.

Booking their tickets to Australia/New Zealand allows coach Vlatko Andonovski to firm up his World Cup roster and tactics well in advance. He can build cohesion and dial in the gameplan without having to juggle a qualifying campaign too.

Qualifying out of CONCACAF shows that the fierce regional competition still hasn’t caught up. Canada and Mexico would love to overtake the USWNT, but ultimately fall short again.

It also gives young, emerging USWNT players a taste of tournament pressure before the World Cup. Qualifiers help seasoning prospects like Sophia Smith, Mallory Pugh, Trinity Rodman, etc.

Come the World Cup, the USWNT can hopefully avoid a challenging group if they enter as a top seed. Their qualifying form could earn them a more favorable draw.

Most importantly, direct World Cup qualification just reasserts the USWNT’s dominance in CONCACAF. It reminds everyone they are still the queens of the region going into a title defense on the global stage.

So in summary, World Cup qualifying this summer in Mexico represents a massive opportunity for Vlatko Andonovski’s side. Taking care of business sets the USWNT up perfectly for success at the big dance.

Missing out on qualification? That would be a disaster. The USWNT would enter the World Cup with more questions than answers. The road to a fourth star begins this summer.

I expect the USWNT to handle their business and book their spot. Then they can shift focus to finally avenging their quarterfinal loss in France 2019. The journey starts now!

How huge do you think World Cup qualifying is for the team’s prospects next summer? Share your thoughts in the comments! This is a crucial milestone on the USWNT’s title defense.

Excitement levels rising for fans as the USWNT heads into a crucial year

What’s up USWNT fans! Can you feel the excitement building for our women’s national team? With World Cup qualifying and the main event itself ahead, this is shaping up to be an unforgettable year.

After the heartbreak of missing the podium in Tokyo, this is the perfect chance for the USWNT to return to the pinnacle of women’s soccer. The team is eager to make new history and give fans something to truly celebrate.

But the road back to glory starts with qualifying. The CONCACAF W Championship this summer represents the first major task. Taking care of business there is crucial.

You know rivals like Canada will be gunning to knock off the defending World Cup champs. Mexico and Costa Rica are rising fast too. Qualifying won’t be easy, which adds to the drama.

That tournament will show us how formidable the USWNT will be heading into Australia/New Zealand. Are they ready to reclaim their status as the best in the world? The anticipation is palpable.

Then all eyes turn to the World Cup itself next summer. The chance to witness the USWNT competing for that elusive fourth star will have fans buzzing.

There is truly nothing quite like a World Cup year. The months building up to it feel different. The stakes just seem higher for both the team and its loyal supporters.

Fans are ready to fully back this talented USWNT squad. We saw their potential in flashes during the Olympics. Now it’s time to put it all together when it matters most.

A World Cup run seems destined to happen. And the USWNT is at their best when expectations weigh heaviest. They live for these major tournaments.

Whether watching stateside at ungodly hours or making the pilgrimage to Australia and New Zealand, fans are committed to cheering on the red, white and blue this year.

Let’s savor every twist and turn of this journey together. Through qualifying heartbreak or World Cup ecstasy, we ride with this team no matter what.

The USWNT has given us so much joy over the years. Here’s hoping 2023 delivers more indelible moments that we’ll talk about forever.

Buckle up, USWNT fans! This year is going to be a wild and fun ride. Our team is ready for the challenge – and so are we. Get hype!

How are you feeling heading into the USWNT’s big year? Let me know your excitement levels in the comments! I can hardly wait.