USWNT Prepares for Final 2025 International Friendly Against Italy
The U.S. women’s national team closes out its 2025 campaign this week with a two‐game series against Italy. Under head coach Emma Hayes, the USWNT has focused on strategic rotation and experimentation, ending the year with a 10-3-0 record. With losses only to Brazil, Portugal and Japan, the squad aims to maintain momentum and avoid a fourth defeat—something the program hasn’t experienced since 2001.
How to Watch the USWNT vs. Italy Friendly
Date: Friday, Nov. 28
Kickoff: 7 p.m. ET
Venue: Inter & Co Stadium, Orlando, Fla.
TV: TNT
Live Stream: Available via the TNT app and participating cable providers
Building Momentum After October Friendlies
In October’s international window, the USWNT returned from a 113-day break to face Portugal (a surprise loss), secure immediate revenge, and then dominate New Zealand. These matches exposed early rust but ultimately reaffirmed the squad’s depth. Emma Hayes used the window to assess talent across the roster, setting the stage for final selections ahead of 2026 World Cup qualifying.
Last Roster of the Year
Hayes named a 26-player roster that blends seasoned veterans and emerging talents. The selection balances continuity with fresh faces as the program looks toward regional qualifying in November 2026.
Veteran Core and Comebacks
• Naomi Girma (Chelsea FC) returns after a calf injury.
• Rose Lavelle rejoins fresh off winning the 2025 NWSL Championship.
• Gotham FC’s Lily Reale, Emily Sonnett, Jaedyn Shaw and Jaelin Howell appear after their championship run.
• Washington Spirit’s Kate Wiesner and Croix Bethune also make the squad.
Breakout Call-Ups and Debutantes
• Goalkeeper Jordan Silkowitz earns her first senior call-up after an injury sidelined Phallon Tullis-Joyce.
• Chicago Stars forward Jameese Joseph receives her first senior team invitation following consistent U-23 performances.
Jaelin Howell’s Return After Injury Layoff
Defensive midfielder Jaelin Howell re-enters the USWNT setup for the first time since October 2022. Howell, Gotham FC’s No. 2 overall draft pick in 2022, led the club in recoveries (172), tackles (84) and interceptions (51) this season. Her career-high four goals and over 1,700 touches highlight her growth. She credits veteran teammates Rose Lavelle and Emily Sonnett for mentoring her on and off the field, describing their guidance as “a huge game changer” for her development.
A Taste of Italy: Evaluating a Rising European Side
Italy, ranked 12th by FIFA, reached the 2025 UEFA Women’s Euro semifinals and arrives in Orlando fueled by confidence. Head coach Andrea Soncin will test his defense against the USWNT’s dynamic attack. Despite a historical U.S. advantage (11-1-4), this fixture marks the first meeting in nearly 15 years and offers a valuable benchmark for both programs.
Looking Ahead to 2026 World Cup Qualifying
This final friendly helps solidify team principles and evaluates depth ahead of the 2026 regional qualifying window. Emma Hayes will use insights from the Italy series to refine rosters, ensuring the USWNT remains competitive on the path to the next World Cup.