The U.S. Women`s National Team (USWNT) is set to conclude their summer international window by facing long-time regional rivals Canada on Wednesday. This match at Audi Field in Washington, D.C., represents the final game of a three-fixture series for the team before the next international break in October.
Coming off two comfortable victories against Ireland where they scored eight goals without reply, the USWNT now faces a significantly tougher challenge. Coach Emma Hayes utilized different starting lineups for the Ireland matches to assess the squad, with the Canada game serving as the key evaluation point of this window.
It is anticipated that players who were rested during the Ireland fixtures may feature against Canada, potentially including defender Naomi Girma and midfielder Rose Lavelle. However, defenders Gisele Thompson and Kerry Abello are unavailable, having left the training camp due to injuries.
Coach Hayes and her staff are using this window, particularly the Canada match, for final player evaluations as they begin to narrow down the player pool. This assessment is crucial for the initial planning phase leading towards the 2027-28 cycle.
Match Details
- Date: Wednesday, July 2
- Time: 7:30 p.m. ET
- Location: Audi Field, Washington D.C.
- TV: TNT
- Live Stream: Max
- Betting Odds: USA -154; Draw +270; Canada +350
Last Encounter
The USWNT and Canada share a lengthy history, with the U.S. holding a strong record of 53 wins in 66 previous meetings. Their most recent clash was in the 2024 SheBelieves Cup. That match finished 2-2 after regular time, with goals from Sophia Wilson for the USWNT and Adrianna Leon for Canada. The USWNT ultimately secured a 5-4 victory in a dramatic penalty shootout, highlighted by former goalkeeper Alyssa Naeher making a save and subsequently scoring a penalty herself.
Coaches` Perspectives
Coach Emma Hayes emphasized the significance of facing a top-tier opponent like Canada for player evaluation. She noted that Canada falls into the same category as teams like Brazil and Japan in providing a valuable test for less experienced players. Hayes stated her focus is on seeing how much the team has improved in tactical details against a strong opponent, not just relying on a few senior players, but seeing more players capable of executing the game plan.
Hayes also discussed the attacking performance, acknowledging the number of opportunities created but highlighting the need for better decision-making and execution in the final third to convert chances. Defensively, she stressed the importance of maintaining structure to limit Canada`s dangerous transitions, noting their pace can be exploited if the U.S. loses shape.
Canada`s head coach, Casey Stoney, also views this match as a critical test against the world`s top-ranked team. Stoney, who took charge in January, is still in the early stages of evaluating her squad. She mentioned that her initial focus has been on understanding the players` skill sets and building trust within the team, particularly after challenges faced in the past year. Stoney expressed her belief that by fine-tuning aspects and providing players with the right tools, the team can elevate its performance.
Predicted Lineups
USWNT: Mandy McGlynn, Avery Patterson, Emily Sonnett, Naomi Girma, Lily Reale, Sam Coffey, Rose Lavelle, Ally Sentnor, Michelle Cooper, Alyssa Thompson
Canada: Kalien Sheridan, Ashley Lawrence, Jade Rose, Vanessa Giles, Gabrielle Carle, Julia Grosso, Jesse Flemming, Simi Awujo, Marie-Yasmine Alidou, Janine Sonis, Evelyne Viens
Prediction
Given that both coaching staffs seem focused on evaluation and development, this match could potentially be a tight contest. However, rivalries often spark intensity. With fresh faces expected to feature, there`s hope for an engaging game.
Pick: USWNT 2, Canada 1
