The U.S. Women`s National Team is set to play Ireland again on Sunday, aiming to extend their current winning streak under coach Emma Hayes. The Stars and Stripes are coming off a decisive 4-0 victory over the Girls in Green from Thursday. Hayes has named a 25-player squad for this series of three friendlies and indicated after the first match that significant player rotation is expected throughout the games.
Rose Lavelle made a notable return to the team in the last match against Ireland, contributing her 25th national team goal and 25th assist. This was Lavelle`s first game back after undergoing ankle surgery, her last appearance having been in December 2024. With the coaching staff monitoring Lavelle`s minutes and a match against Concacaf rivals Canada scheduled for July 2, the veteran midfielder may receive some rest in this upcoming game.
In line with Emma Hayes` approach, three more players earned their initial senior national team caps on Thursday: goalkeeper Claudia Dickey and defenders Lilly Reale and Jordyn Bugg. Other first-time call-ups including goalkeeper Angelina Anderson, defender Izzy Rodriguez, and midfielder Sam Meza are still seeking their opportunities to debut.
Match Information & Odds
- Date: Sunday, June 29
- Time: 3:00 PM ET
- Location: TQL Stadium, Cincinnati, Ohio
- TV: TNT
- Live stream: Max
- Odds: USWNT -1400; Draw +900; Ireland +2500
Review of the Last Meeting
The USWNT secured a convincing 4-0 win against Ireland last Thursday, with goals from Avery Patterson, Sam Coffey, Alyssa Thompson, and Rose Lavelle. The scoring was evenly split between the two halves. Coach Hayes complimented Patterson on her opening goal and overall effort, although she felt Patterson `didn`t get tested enough defensively … but she`s a great learner and a great listener.`
This recent result improves the USWNT`s perfect record against Ireland to 16 wins in 16 matches. They have outscored the Girls in Green by a remarkable 55-1 margin historically. This winning streak is the longest against any opponent in USWNT program history and also their longest against any UEFA competitor.
Anticipated Lineups
USWNT: Mandy McGlynn; Izzy Rodrigez, Emily Sams, Tara McKeown, Gisele Thompson; Claire Hutton, Sam Meza, Olivia Moultrie; Yazmeen Ryan, Ally Sentnor, Emma Sears
Ireland: Courtney Bronsan; Jessie Stapleton, Anna Patten, Caitlin Hayes, Isibeal Atkinson; Ruesha Littlejohn, Megan Connolly, Emily Murphy, Kyra Carusa, Lucy Quinn, Amber Barrett
Players to Keep an Eye On
Emma Sears, USWNT: The Racing Louisville FC forward is integrating with the national team setup, often being utilized as a dynamic substitute rather than a starter currently. However, she consistently maximizes her playing time. Her capability to deliver accurate crosses and cut inside for shots makes her an unpredictable threat in the attack.
Tara McKeown, USWNT: The Washington Spirit defender has become a consistent presence in USWNT rosters throughout 2025. Her background as a former forward gives her a distinct advantage in possession, frequently leading her to drive into midfield or pick out dangerous long passes. McKeown`s transition to centerback has been notably smooth, highlighting her tactical intelligence, composure under pressure, and strong game awareness.
Key Storylines for the Match
USWNT: This match represents a final opportunity for many players to make a lasting impression on the coaching staff before the team`s next international window in October. With the 2027 FIFA Women’s World Cup qualifiers (via the Concacaf W Championship) just 13 months away, the focus will soon narrow to a smaller core group and refining specific tactical approaches. Expect players with fewer national team appearances to play with high intensity to make future squad selection decisions challenging for Hayes.
Republic of Ireland: With the UEFA Nations League on the horizon, the Girls in Green will be motivated to show a much-improved performance against the world`s top-ranked team. Head coach Carla Ward faces limited options heading into this second match against the USWNT. Captain Denise O`Sullivan and Megan Campbell, who were unavailable for the game in Denver, have been confirmed out for the Cincinnati fixture as well.
Match Prediction
The dynamics of the match will partly hinge on which players are available for Ireland after their challenging loss on Thursday, but the team will certainly be determined not to concede four goals again. Nevertheless, even if they encounter early resistance, Emma Hayes` squad is anticipated to secure another victory.
Predicted Score: USWNT 3, Ireland 0
Dominic Ashworth