The third stage: what to expect from Emma Hayes’s USWNT with World Cup in sight?
Guardian Sport
by Megan SwanickFebruary 26, 2026
AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary
The US Women’s National Team (USWNT) under head coach Emma Hayes is entering a new phase of its World Cup preparation with the SheBelieves Cup campaign in Nashville. The team’s upcoming matches against Argentina, Canada, and Colombia mark a significant shift in focus for Hayes, who has spent much of 2025 introducing new players to the squad. However, this year’s SheBelieves Cup is notable for being the first in over a year without any uncapped players, signaling that the team is now prioritizing refinement and cohesion rather than experimentation.
This shift comes as the USWNT aims to build momentum ahead of the World Cup, with Hayes’ approach reflecting a strategic pivot from player experimentation to fine-tuning tactics and strategies. The absence of new faces in the squad highlights the coach’s confidence in her current lineup and her emphasis on creating a more cohesive unit capable of performing at the highest level. This phase of preparation is crucial for solidifying team chemistry and ensuring that players are fully integrated into Hayes’ vision for the tournament.
The SheBelieves Cup, now in its 11th edition, serves as an important opportunity for the USWNT to test its readiness against strong international opponents like Argentina, Canada, and Colombia. These matches will provide valuable insights into how the team performs under pressure and whether it can maintain its dominance on the global stage. For fans of women’s soccer, this tournament offers a glimpse into the future of the USWNT as it prepares to defend its World Cup title.
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Originally published on Guardian Sport on 2/26/2026