U.S. U20 Women’s National Team Roster for 2026 FIFA U20 Women’s World Cup

The U.S. Under-20 Women’s National Team roster has been unveiled ahead of the 2026 FIFA U20 Women’s World Cup in Poland. Head coach Vicky Jepson announced a balanced 21-player squad that blends top collegiate talent with rising professionals from the NWSL. With tournament kick-off set for September 5 and the final on September 27, this roster aims to deliver both immediate impact and long-term development.

Coach Vicky Jepson’s Selection Philosophy

Jepson emphasized unity and versatility in her roster choices. “We have selected a special group of players who bring a broad and diverse range of qualities from both the college and professional game,” she explained. Her approach focuses on:

• Team cohesion over individual stars
• A mix of experience and youth to foster growth
• Physical and technical readiness for a condensed World Cup schedule

By collaborating closely with NWSL clubs and collegiate programs, Jepson secured key releases and ensured each athlete can perform at her peak during this once-in-a-lifetime event.

Roster Breakdown by Position

The U.S. U20 roster features 21 players across four positions. Below is an overview of the squad, including club or college affiliation and U-20 caps.

Goalkeepers (3)

• Caroline Birkel (Stanford; 6 caps)
• Evan O’Steen (Seattle Reign FC; 2 caps)
• Kealey Titmuss (Penn State; 5 caps)

Defenders (7)

• Aven Alvarez (UNC; 12 caps)
• Ella Bard (Louisville; 6 caps)
• Lizzie Boamah (Stanford; 6 caps)
• Pearl Cecil (Virginia; 2 caps)
• Emma Johnson (Penn State; 9 caps, 1 goal)
• Hope Munson (UNC; 6 caps)
• Katie Scott (Kansas City Current; 11 caps, 1 goal)

Midfielders (6)

• Kennedy Fuller (Bay FC; 8 caps, 2 goals)
• Lily Joseph (Notre Dame; 2 caps)
• Ainsley McCammon (Seattle Reign FC; 6 caps)
• Y-Lan Nguyen (Stanford; 5 caps)
• Nyanya Touray (Florida State; 4 caps)
• Linda Ullmark (Houston Dash; 7 caps, 6 goals)

Forwards (5)

• Emeri Adames (Seattle Reign FC; 4 caps, 1 goal)
• Alex Buck (Washington; 6 caps, 1 goal)
• Micayla Johnson (Chicago Stars FC; 4 caps, 2 goals)
• Audrey McKeen (Racing Louisville FC; 2 caps)
• Sealey Strawn (UNC; 2 caps)

NWSL and Collegiate Representation

Eight players on the roster compete professionally in the NWSL, representing six clubs: Bay FC, Chicago Stars FC, Houston Dash, Kansas City Current, Racing Louisville FC, and Seattle Reign FC. The remaining athletes showcase the depth of the U.S. collegiate system, hailing from top programs such as Stanford, UNC, Penn State, Notre Dame, Louisville, Florida State, and Washington.

The blend of pro and college experience ensures the squad can navigate the demands of international competition. Professional players bring match-hardiness and tactical discipline, while collegiate standouts inject youthful energy and adaptability.

Key Returnees and Notable Omissions

Several veterans from the bronze-medal–winning 2024 U20 World Cup team return, including high-impact pro talents. Notably absent are Claire Hutton (Bay FC), Melanie Barcenas and Kimmie Ascanio (San Diego Wave FC), whose club commitments presented selection challenges. This year’s roster reflects a delicate balance between club cooperation and national team priorities.

Outlook Ahead of Poland Tournament

With the final draw featuring 24 nations, the U.S. squad faces group-stage tests against diverse playing styles. Coach Jepson’s emphasis on collective effort and mental resilience will be vital as the tournament schedule overlaps club commitments. Age eligibility extends through January 1, 2006 births, setting the stage for emerging stars to showcase their talent on a global platform.

Fans can expect a competitive group dynamic, driven by players who have earned their spots through dedication at both collegiate and professional levels. As the U20 Women’s World Cup approaches, the U.S. roster stands poised to contend for the title and reinforce America’s reputation as a youth development powerhouse.