Key Takeaways
- The USWNT is starting its 2026 campaign with a January camp matchup against Paraguay
- Manager Emma Hayes has called in a roster of players representing NWSL, with the exception of Trinity Rodman, to bring in new faces and narrow down the player pool
- The team will focus on playing fast, aggressive, and with high intensity, and control the possession and tempo of the game
- Players like Claire Hutton and Trinity Rodman will be expected to demonstrate leadership skills and contribute to the team’s performance
- The January camp will be a crucial opportunity for players to make an impression and be considered for future call-ups
Introduction to the USWNT’s 2026 Campaign
The US Women’s National Team (USWNT) is kicking off its 2026 campaign with a January camp matchup against Paraguay, marking the beginning of a new year and a fresh start for the team. Manager Emma Hayes has assembled a roster of players primarily from the National Women’s Soccer League (NWSL), with the exception of Trinity Rodman, who is currently unattached. This roster is notable for its lack of experience, with only one player, Trinity Rodman, having more than 15 caps. Despite this, Hayes is optimistic about the potential of the team and is looking forward to seeing how the players will perform in the upcoming friendlies.
Leadership Opportunities for Young Players
Hayes has highlighted the importance of leadership skills in the team, particularly in the absence of more experienced players. She has singled out Claire Hutton, who has just 11 caps, as a player who will be expected to take on more responsibility and demonstrate her leadership abilities. In a press conference, Hayes noted that Hutton will be considered one of the more experienced midfielders in the group, despite her relatively young age. This comment suggests that Hayes will be looking beyond just statistical contributions and will be evaluating players on their ability to lead and inspire their teammates. Trinity Rodman, who is returning to the national team, will also be expected to play a key role in the team’s attack and provide leadership on the field.
Expected Team Performance and Lineup
Given the team’s inexperience, it is likely that the USWNT will stick to its usual playing style, which is characterized by fast, aggressive, and high-intensity football. The team should be able to control the possession and tempo of the game, building on its solid performances against Italy, Portugal, and New Zealand in 2025. The starting lineup is likely to feature Hutton in midfield, Rodman in attack, and Avery Patterson on the backline. With two friendlies scheduled, it is possible that different goalkeepers will start each game, with Claudia Dickey, Mandy McGlynn, and Jordan Silkowitz all in contention.
Opponent Analysis: Paraguay
Paraguay, on the other hand, is in the midst of World Cup qualification in the CONMEBOL Women’s Nations League and will use the match against the USWNT as preparation for its upcoming match against Ecuador. The team features players mainly based in the domestic league or elsewhere in South America, with only two players representing European clubs. Paraguay will be missing some key players and will likely adopt a direct style of play, trying to disrupt the American buildup and capitalize on counter-attacks. To make things difficult for the USWNT, Paraguay will need to stay compact and take its chances on the counter, exploiting any mistakes made by the American team.
Importance of January Camp for Player Selection
The January camp is a crucial opportunity for players to make an impression and secure their place in the team going forward. With qualification for the 2027 World Cup still a long way off, Hayes will be taking a serious look at who to include in the roster for future call-ups. The January camp will likely be the last chance for players on the periphery of the player pool to make a case for themselves and be considered for future selection. Much of 2025 was focused on development and building the team’s system and spirit, but as the year progresses, the focus will shift to results, starting with the SheBelieves Cup. The friendlies against Paraguay will provide valuable experience and a chance for players to prove themselves, and Hayes will be watching closely to see who rises to the challenge.
