Forward Sophia Wilson and defender Tianna Davidson are set to rejoin the U.S. Women’s National Team (USWNT) for the first time in over a year this month. Their names were included in the 26-player roster announced by head coach Emma Hayes.
The USWNT is set to face Japan three times between April 11 and April 17, marking an important series for both teams.
Hayes expressed confidence in Wilson’s readiness during a virtual press conference, stating, “I’ve stayed in touch with Wilson and feel that now is the right time for her return.”
Strategic Anticipation for World Cup Qualifying
Emphasizing the importance of Wilson’s comeback, Hayes noted that it’s vital for the team to integrate players like her into the rhythm of the game as they prepare for World Cup qualifying. At 25, Wilson last donned the national jersey in late 2024, where she notably contributed three goals to secure a gold medal at the Olympics.
After missing the entire 2025 NWSL season due to maternity leave and delivering her first child in September, Wilson is eager to re-establish her place within the squad. She has already made strides with the Portland Thorns, participating in all four matches so far this season and securing her first start in a recent game.
Her return also reunites her with forward Trinity Rodman, forming part of the dynamic “Triple Espresso” lineup that previously led the USWNT to Olympic gold. The third member of this trio, Mallory Swanson, remains on maternity leave after also missing the 2025 season.
During the 2024 Olympics, this formidable trio scored a combined 10 out of the team’s 12 goals, underscoring their integral role in the squad’s offensive strategy.
Meanwhile, Davidson returns to the national fold after completing rehabilitation from a torn ACL, which had sidelined her since she last played for the team in February 2025. The left-footed center-back is back in action for Gotham FC, having played a total of 74 minutes across three matches in the 2026 NWSL season. With 67 international caps, Davidson was also part of the victorious 2019 World Cup team.
In her previous Olympic appearance, Davidson played a pivotal role before her injury in the semifinals. Hayes praised her journey back to competitive play, highlighting her resilience and valuable presence in the squad.
Both players will face minutes restrictions in the upcoming matches against Japan to allow others like Jameis Joseph and Allie Sentner the opportunity to make their mark. Following extensive experimentation during her first year—where a record 32 players made their debuts—Hayes has chosen a roster for the second consecutive year that features only established players.
The USWNT secured the SheBelieves Cup in March, reflecting their strong form ahead of this challenging series against Japan, who recently triumphed in the 2026 AFC Women’s Asian Cup. The Japanese team dominated the tournament, outscoring opponents 29-1.
The matches are scheduled for April 11 in San Jose, April 14 in Seattle, and April 17 in a Denver suburb. Hayes intends to mix up the lineups across these games, balancing competitive desire with player development and team cohesion.
As the head coach emphasized, while winning is important, the primary goal during this series is to enhance player connections and develop the core of the team. With Japan ranked among the top teams globally, this challenge will be a critical assessment ahead of future competitions.
USWNT Position Roster (Club; Caps/Goals) April 2026 Match vs. Japan:
Goalkeepers: Jane Campbell (Houston Dash, 10), Claudia Dickie (Seattle Reign FC, 8), Fallon Tallis-Joyce (Manchester United, England, 6).
Defenders: Tianna Davidson (Gotham FC; 67/3), Emily Fox (Arsenal FC, England; 74/1), Naomi Girma (Chelsea FC, England; 52/2), Avery Patterson (Houston Dash; 10/1), Lily Leal (Gotham FC; 7/0), Emily Sams (Angel City FC: 9/1), Emily Sonnet (Gotham FC; 115/2), Gisele Thompson (Angel City FC; 7/0), Kennedy Wesley (San Diego Wave FC; 4/0).
Midfielders: Sam Coffey (Manchester City, England; 44/5), Lindsay Heaps (OL Lyon, France; 173/39), Claire Hatton (Bay FC; 15/1), Rose Lovell (Gotham FC; 118/27), Olivia Moultrie (Portland Thorns FC; 15/5), Jaidyn Shaw (Gotham FC; 34/10), Lily Johannes (OL Lyon, FRA; 16/1).
Forwards: Michelle Cooper (Kansas City Current, 10/1), Jameis Joseph (Chicago Stars FC, 4/1), Trinity Rodman (Washington Spirit, 52/13), Emma Sears (Racing Louisville FC, 17/6), Allie Sentner (Kansas City Current, 18/7), Alyssa Thompson (Chelsea FC, England; 29/4), Sophia Wilson (Portland Thorns FC; 58/24).
