Emma Hayes tests rising stars as USWNT faces England and Netherlands | OneFootball

As the year draws to a close, the USWNT, under the management of Emma Hayes, embarks on an audacious mission: taking on two of women's soccer's most respected teams in England and the Netherlands. Yet these matches highlight a pivotal chapter in rebuilding the team as they prepare to go into World Cup qualification.

Without major players such as Trinity Rodman, Sophia Smith, and Mallory Swanson, the roster heads to Europe with a mix of experience, young energy, and the promise of emerging stars.

A Strategic Roster

Emma Hayes' 24-player roster teeters between the experienced and the newbies. Players such as Lindsey Horan, with her 159 caps and goalkeeper Alyssa Naeher, who has also pulled on USA colors 113 times, form the core of the experience in the team. Meanwhile, young talents such as 17-year-old Lily Yohannes and the 20-year-old forward Ally Sentnor, making her senior team debut after a compelling NWSL season, grab the headlines.

Hayes has been clear about her approach: prioritizing experimentation with formations and strengthening the team's depth for future challenges. As she put it, this trip is about "developing the squad and building relationships on and off the field."

Standouts: Debuts

Ally Sentnor’s debut is one of the most exciting elements of this roster. The young forward, who impressed in this year’s U-20 World Cup with three goals and a Bronze Ball, arrives as one of the brightest prospects in women’s soccer. Her technical skills and game awareness make her a player to watch closely.

Another important name to note is that of Manchester United goalkeeper Phallon Tullis-Joyce, who finally gets his chance at the senior level at 28. With his addition, Hayes has brought 11 players into their first senior call-up, evidence of her commitment to refreshing and diversifying the squad.

Experience Meets Youth

This roster undoubtedly showcases the mark of veterans: the likes of Horan, Naeher, and Rose Lavelle bring in great stats, ensuring that their presence extends to leadership in times of need. Lavelle herself has 108 caps with 24 goals; she is one of those mid-fielders who can change the tides with both her creativity and skills.

On the other hand, young talents like Lily Yohannes symbolize the future of the team. Already this season, the Ajax midfielder has three goals and won Talent of the Year in the Netherlands. Her ability to succeed on one of Europe's largest stages gives an insight into what she could add to the USWNT.

Challenges Against England and the Netherlands

Now, no small task lies ahead for the USWNT, having to face both the two most recent World Cup finalists. The 2022 Euro champions, England, are coming off a disappointing loss against Spain in the World Cup final. Meanwhile, the Netherlands are eager to reaffirm their status among the global elite.

These games won't just be about measuring themselves against the best teams; they'll also provide an opportunity for players with less experience to be exposed to high-pressure situations that could be integral to team development.

Looking Ahead to 2025

While these friendlies across Europe bring the calendar year of 2024 to a close, the work for the USWNT doesn't grind to a halt. A January camp awaits in Los Angeles as Hayes gets to work on building foundations in a busy calendar year.

This team is heading for the future. With the rise of young stars and experienced veterans, too, still in prime condition, the USWNT is all set to face the challenges ahead among which are the coming World Cup and their spot in the global arena.