USWNT Meets World No. 1 Spain for Two International Friendlies

Reigning Olympic champion United States faces world No. 1 Spain on Saturday at Audi Field and Tuesday in Chester, Pennsylvania.

The world No. 2 ranked United States women's national team faces top-ranked Spain on Saturday, October 10, at Audi Field in Washington, D.C., followed by a second match on Tuesday in Chester, Pennsylvania. Head coach Emma Hayes described these friendlies as essential preparation for the 2027 World Cup, for which the U.S. must still qualify next month. Spain has already secured qualification for that tournament.

Both rosters are missing key players due to injury. The USWNT will play without defender Naomi Girma, who has a recurring calf issue, and midfielder Sam Coffey. Both players withdrew from camp following injuries sustained with their respective clubs, Chelsea and Manchester City. Spain will be without three-time Ballon d'Or winner Aitana Bonmatí, who is experiencing pain following a broken leg. Additionally, forward Clàudia Pina and defender Mapi León withdrew on Friday, leading to the call-up of replacement Lucía García.

Hayes emphasized that defeating the reigning World Cup champions requires a collective effort on both sides of the ball. Forward Trinity Rodman noted that training has focused on overcoming Spain's defensive pressure to transition the ball to the forward line. This series marks the first FIFA international break for the U.S. in four months, following a pair of road games against Brazil in June.