Full Breakdown
USWNT Prepares for Final Matches of 2025 Against Italy
11/20/2025, 2:42:48 AM
Upcoming Matches and Roster Overview
The U.S. Women’s National Team (USWNT) is set to conclude its 2025 schedule with two friendly matches against Italy, a team that reached the semifinals of the 2025 UEFA Women’s Euro. The matches will take place on November 28 at Inter&Co Stadium in Orlando, Florida, and December 1 at Chase Stadium in Fort Lauderdale, Florida. Head coach Emma Hayes has named a 26-player training camp roster, from which 23 players will be selected for each match.
Key Roster Changes
The roster features notable changes, including the return of defender Naomi Girma, who has been sidelined due to calf injuries since July. Girma recently played for Chelsea FC in the UEFA Women’s Champions League and is expected to provide leadership and experience to the squad. Additionally, the roster includes two first-time call-ups: goalkeeper Jordan Silkowitz from Bay FC and forward Jameese Joseph from the Chicago Stars. Defender Kate Wiesner, who had previously been a training player, also returns for her second call-up.
Conversely, forward Trinity Rodman and goalkeeper Phallon Tullis-Joyce are absent from the roster due to injuries. Rodman is recovering from an MCL sprain, while Tullis-Joyce is healing from a fractured eye socket.
Official Statements and Insights
Emma Hayes expressed enthusiasm about the upcoming matches, stating, “It’s been an exciting and important year for our group... this camp will be an extension of that, but it will also set the groundwork for 2026, which will be our World Cup qualifying year.” She emphasized the importance of facing top European teams like Italy for assessing the team's growth.
Hayes also addressed the absence of Rodman, noting, “We felt together that with an important camp and big game minutes required, she’s not in a position to do that.” This sentiment reflects the team's focus on player welfare while preparing for competitive matches.
Criticism and Challenges
Despite the excitement surrounding the roster, the USWNT has faced challenges throughout the year, including losses to Japan, Brazil, and a surprising defeat to Portugal. Hayes acknowledged the need for tactical improvement, stating, “Italy are in the top echelon of the teams in Europe... this is going to be a really stern test for us.”
Conclusion
The upcoming matches against Italy represent a critical opportunity for the USWNT to evaluate its progress and prepare for future competitions, particularly the 2026 World Cup qualifying campaign. With a mix of returning veterans and new talent, the team aims to finish the year on a strong note. Tickets for both matches are available through ussoccer.com.
