The United States Women`s National Team is preparing for their upcoming matches against Brazil in April. The two games will start on Saturday at SoFi Stadium in California, followed by a second game in Northern California on April 8.
Coach Emma Hayes is using this period to evaluate and expand the player pool for the 2027-28 cycle. Trinity Rodman is back on the roster after recovering from a back injury sustained after the 2024 NWSL Championship. Ashley Hatch and Alana Cook have also rejoined the team for the first time since 2023. Gisele Thompson was called up as a replacement for Tierna Davidson, who unfortunately suffered an ACL tear.
The team is looking to rebound after a SheBelieves Cup defeat to Japan, which ended their five-year winning streak in the tournament.
Match Details
- Date: April 5, 2025
- Location: SoFi Stadium, Los Angeles, CA
- Watch Live: TNT and Max
Last Encounter
2024 Olympic Gold Medal Final: The USWNT and Brazil last played in the 2024 Paris Olympics final. In a tight game, Mal Swanson scored the winning goal for the U.S. in the second half, and goalkeeper Alyssa Naeher made crucial saves to secure a 1-0 victory and the gold medal.
Coach Hayes` Perspective
Coach Hayes is focused on developing the team, integrating new strategies, and working with the U23 team. January camps were used to introduce players and coaches. This April camp is the first time the U23 team is training alongside the senior team in preparation for games.
Hayes noted the team`s youth and inexperience but is optimistic about building chemistry and strengthening the roster through these camps in April, May, and June.
Projected Lineups
Lineup predictions vary among analysts. Darian Jenkins suggests the following starting XI for the USWNT against Brazil:
USWNT Starting XI: Jane Campbell, Emily Fox, Emily Sams, Emily Sonnett, Crystal Dunn; Sam Coffey, Lily Yohannes, Lindsey Heaps; Yazmeen Ryan, Catarina Macario, Alyssa Thompson
Player Spotlight
Alyssa Thompson: The Angel City FC forward has started the NWSL season strongly, leading her club in goals and ranking second in chances created. Her ability to challenge defenders makes her a significant threat against Brazil.
Thompson commented on the upcoming match, highlighting Brazil`s strategy of isolating players and creating space as key challenges. She emphasized the team`s focus on development and winning.
Key Storyline
Expanded Player Pool: After two high-stakes matches in 2024, these friendlies offer a different context. While less pressure, Coach Hayes is using these games to evaluate players and give them important game time. The team also aims to respond positively after losing the SheBelieves Cup.
Match Prediction
Friendly matches often involve adjustments in the first game. With many Brazilian players also in the NWSL, familiarity between the teams could lead to a close and potentially high-scoring game as they adapt to each other.
Prediction: USWNT 2, Brazil 1
Dominic Ashworth