The United States women's national team will host world No. 1 and reigning World Cup champions Spain in a pair of friendly matches in October, U.S. Soccer announced on Monday, according to ESPN.
Summary
The United States women's national team (USWNT) will host world No. 1 and reigning World Cup champions Spain in a pair of friendly matches in October, U.S. Soccer announced on Monday, according to ESPN.
The Details
The matches will be played on U.S. soil, though specific venues and dates have not yet been confirmed. This marks the first meeting between the two sides since the 2023 World Cup, where Spain defeated the USWNT in the round of 16 en route to winning the tournament. The friendlies will serve as key preparation for both teams ahead of future competitions, including the 2024 Olympics and the next World Cup cycle.
Spain currently sits atop the FIFA women's world rankings, while the USWNT is ranked third. The two nations have developed a growing rivalry in recent years, with Spain's technical style contrasting with the USWNT's athleticism and direct approach.
What It Means
For the USWNT, these matches provide an opportunity to measure progress under head coach Emma Hayes, who took over in 2024. The team has been rebuilding after a disappointing early exit at the 2023 World Cup, and facing the world's best will be a stern test. Spain, meanwhile, will look to continue their dominance after winning the World Cup and establishing themselves as the team to beat.
The friendlies also offer a chance for fans in the United States to see some of the world's top players, including Spain's Ballon d'Or winner Aitana Bonmatí and USWNT stars like Sophia Smith and Trinity Rodman. With both teams expected to be contenders at the 2024 Olympics, these matches could provide a preview of a potential gold medal showdown.
For more on the USWNT and Spain, visit our more World Cup news page.
Source: Reported by ESPN. Summary compiled by NinetyMins.
