# USWNT’s Spain Friendlies Put Defensive Depth to the Test
The U.S. women’s national team (USWNT) faces a major challenge in its preparations for the 2027 Women’s World Cup: back-to-back friendlies against Spain, the reigning world champion. The matches offer a timely test before World Cup qualifying begins, but the United States will have to manage notable absences in defense.
Center back Naomi Girma and defensive midfielder Sam Coffey are unavailable because of injuries. Their absence gives head coach Emma Hayes a chance to assess the team’s depth against one of the world’s strongest attacking sides.
## Injuries Create Questions in the USWNT Defense
Girma is widely viewed as a key part of the United States’ defensive plans, while Coffey’s absence leaves a gap in defensive midfield. Claire Hutton is a likely option to cover Coffey’s role, and the center-back group includes Tierna Davidson, Tara Rudd, Kennedy Wesley and Kate Del Fava.
Hayes has expressed confidence in the players available, while acknowledging that the defenders will need to build their understanding on the field. Davidson brings experience and strong ball progression, while Wesley offers an ability to step forward and challenge opponents. Their contrasting strengths could make them an effective pairing.
Wesley has also benefited from Hayes’ expanded player pool. The San Diego Wave defender has become an important part of a team known for its strong defensive performances in the NWSL, and the Spain friendlies give her an opportunity to strengthen her case for a larger role with the USWNT.
## Spain Offers a Tough Test for an Untested Back Line
Spain’s possession-based attack will challenge the United States to stay organized and composed. The Spanish side is led by playmaker Alexia Putellas, a two-time Ballon d’Or winner, and is known for its movement and ability to create space through possession.
The USWNT’s defense has faced relatively few high-pressure tests since the Olympics. Opponents have averaged around seven shots per game and fewer than one expected goal, making the Spain matches an important measure of how the team performs against elite opposition.
Wesley has emphasized the need for discipline, particularly when Spain’s players interchange positions. The United States will also look to press high and deny Spain the time and space it needs to build attacks.
## Hayes Shifts from Experimentation to World Cup Preparation
Since the Olympics, Hayes has used a series of matches to expand the player pool and assess options across the field. The Spain friendlies mark a shift toward greater consistency, with Hayes indicating that the lineups should be more settled than in earlier games.
The matches could help clarify which players are emerging as front-runners for World Cup roles, particularly in attack. Regular options such as Trinity Rodman, Sophia Wilson and Mallory Swanson are available, alongside players including Alyssa Thompson, Emma Sears and Michelle Cooper.
The attacking group is a major strength for the United States. Wilson has pointed to the team’s chemistry and high pressing as qualities that can help create chances, regardless of which players start.
## Ashley Sanchez Adds Another Attacking Option
Ashley Sanchez is also back in the national-team picture after an impressive NWSL season. The midfielder-turned-forward has scored 20 league goals and is having a season that could put her in contention for individual honors.
Sanchez’s ability to contribute in an attacking role gives Hayes another option as the team evaluates its World Cup lineup. Her return is especially notable after a period away from the national team, and her recent form offers a strong case for continued consideration.
Potential first-time senior internationals Trinity Byars and Pietra Tordin are also in camp, adding to the competition for places.
## Spain Friendlies Offer a Meaningful World Cup Benchmark
The USWNT’s defensive absences make the Spain doubleheader more complicated, but the matches provide valuable preparation. Testing new pairings against a top opponent can help Hayes identify strengths, address weaknesses and build depth before qualifying and the 2027 tournament.
The United States has been preparing for the next World Cup since the end of the Olympics. The friendlies against Spain are a chance to turn that long-term preparation into on-field experience—and to see how the team responds when its defense faces a genuine test.