With several key figures sidelined, Coach Emma Hayes will test a relatively young squad for the first competition of the year.
The U.S. Women's National Soccer Team (USWNT) has announced its roster for the upcoming SheBelieves Cup, but will once again be without key player Catarina Macario, who has been sidelined by injuries. Macario, known for her dynamic play likened to a "triple espresso," has not played for the national team since the 2021 Olympics due to an ACL tear and subsequent recovery issues. The roster includes a mix of experienced players and emerging talents, with notable inclusions like Jaedyn Shaw, who has been in fine form, and the return of defender Tierna Davidson. The team, under interim head coach Twila Kilgore, will face Canada, Brazil, and Japan in the tournament, aiming to defend their title and prepare for the upcoming Olympics. The absence of Macario is felt, but the squad remains robust with players like Alex Morgan, Lindsey Horan, and Sophia Smith leading the charge.