The United States Women`s National Team is preparing to play Brazil in a two-game friendly series this April. The first match will take place at SoFi Stadium in California on Saturday, followed by the second game in Northern California on April 8.
USWNT coach Emma Hayes has emphasized that the team is currently focused on expanding and evaluating its player pool in preparation for the 2027-28 cycle. Trinity Rodman is back on the roster for the first time since the 2024 Olympic gold medal match, having recovered from a back injury sustained after the 2024 NWSL Championship.
Ashley Hatch and Alana Cook have also rejoined the team for the first time since 2023. A late roster change was made due to Tierna Davidson`s ACL injury during a club game, with Gisele Thompson called up as her replacement.
The team aims to rebound after losing to Japan in the SheBelieves Cup, which ended their five-tournament winning streak in the competition.
Here’s a preview of the upcoming match, including viewing information and key storylines.
Match Details and How to Watch
- Date: April 5, 2025
- Time: 5 p.m. ET
- Location: SoFi Stadium — Los Angeles, CA
- TV: TNT | Live stream: Max
- Odds: USA -145; +260 Draw; + 390 Brazil
Previous Encounter
2024 Olympic Gold Medal Final: The USWNT and Brazil last faced off in the 2024 Paris Olympics final. In a tight and important match between these long-time rivals, Mal Swanson scored the decisive goal for the U.S. early in the second half. Goalkeeper Alyssa Naeher made critical saves late in the game to secure a 1-0 victory and the gold medal for the USWNT.
USWNT Head Coach Comments
Coach Hayes is not only broadening the player pool but also working to reshape the team`s overall approach by implementing new strategies and reintegrating the U23 team. In January, Hayes conducted dual training camps with separate rosters to introduce players to the coaching staff. The current April camp is the first U23 camp held alongside a senior camp in conjunction with scheduled matches.
Hayes stated, “Some players currently with the senior team might have been in the U23 program if it weren`t for injuries to senior players. This camp and upcoming camps in May and June provide opportunities to build team chemistry. While there is still some inexperience, the team is in a much better position than months ago, and the roster is expected to strengthen, even if it doesn`t always feel that way.”
Predicted Starting Lineups
Attacking Third analysts have offered various lineup projections. Darian Jenkins` predicted USWNT starting XI for the first game against Brazil is:
USWNT Starting XI: Jane Campbell, Emily Fox, Emily Sams, Emily Sonnett, Crystal Dunn; Sam Coffey, Lily Yohannes, Lindsey Heaps; Yazmeen Ryan, Catarina Macario, Alyssa Thompson
Player Spotlight
Alyssa Thompson: The Angel City FC forward has started the NWSL season strongly, leading her club with two goals and ranking second in chances created with five. Her ability to challenge defenders and create scoring opportunities makes her a significant threat against Brazil.
Thompson commented on the upcoming match with Brazil, stating, “They play with a lot of one-on-one situations, isolating players to gain numerical advantages. Creating space will be crucial for us. They are a strong team, and we are focused on playing our best to win and continue developing as a team.”
Key Storyline
Expanded Player Pool: After two high-stakes matches in 2024 (the Gold Cup and Olympics), the USWNT and Brazil meet again in a less pressured spring friendly setting. While these games are friendlies, they are important for Coach Hayes and her staff to evaluate players and give them significant playing time. The players will also be motivated to perform well after the SheBelieves Cup loss.
Match Prediction
Friendly matches often involve adjustments in the first game, and this series may follow a similar pattern. Brazil also has many players who play in the NWSL and are in their early season, similar to their USWNT counterparts.
This familiarity could lead to another close game between the two teams, but expect goals as they test each other. Prediction: USWNT 2, Brazil 1
