The U.S. Women`s National Team faces Ireland again on Sunday, seeking to extend their winning streak under coach Emma Hayes. The Stars and Stripes began their three-match summer series impressively, securing a dominant 4-0 victory over the Girls in Green on Thursday. Hayes selected a 25-player squad for these friendlies and indicated that significant player rotations would occur across the matches.
Rose Lavelle celebrated her comeback with a remarkable display against Ireland, scoring her 25th goal and providing her 25th assist for the national team. This is Lavelle`s first time back with the squad since undergoing ankle surgery; her previous appearance was in December 2024. Given that the coaching staff is managing her playing time and a match against Concacaf rivals Canada is scheduled for July 2, the experienced midfielder might be rested for this game.
Following her typical approach, Coach Hayes awarded national team debuts to three more players: goalkeeper Claudia Dickey and defenders Lilly Reale and Jordyn Bugg. Other players called up for the first time, goalkeeper Angelina Anderson, defender Izzy Rodriguez, and midfielder Sam Meza, are still hoping to make their first appearance.
How to watch and odds
- Date: Sunday, June 29 | Time: 3 p.m. ET
- Location: TQL Stadium — Cincinnati, Ohio
- TV: TNT
- Live stream: Max
- Odds: USWNT -1400; Draw +900; Ireland +2500
Last meeting
The USWNT achieved a resounding victory against Ireland on Thursday, with goals from Avery Patterson, Sam Coffey, Alyssa Thompson, and Lavelle. The scoring was spread across both halves. Hayes praised Patterson`s opening goal and overall performance, although she noted that Patterson `didn`t get tested enough defensively … but she`s a great learner and a great listener.`
This latest win extends the USWNT`s flawless historical record against Ireland to 16 straight victories. They have a significant goal advantage, outscoring the Girls in Green 55-1 over time. This winning streak is the longest against any opponent in the program`s history and also the longest against any team from UEFA.
Predicted lineups
USWNT: Mandy McGlynn; Izzy Rodrigez, Emily Sams, Tara McKeown, Gisele Thompson; Claire Hutton, Sam Meza, Olivia Moultrie; Yazmeen Ryan, Ally Sentnor, Emma Sears
Ireland: Courtney Bronsan; Jessie Stapleton, Anna Patten, Caitlin Hayes, Isibeal Atkinson; Ruesha Littlejohn, Megan Connolly, Emily Murphy, Kyra Carusa, Lucy Quinn, Amber Barrett
Player to watch
Emma Sears, USWNT: The forward for Racing Louisville FC is part of the national team setup. While she has primarily featured as a substitute rather than a starter so far, she consistently makes a strong impression when given the chance. Her capability to deliver accurate crosses and drive inside for shots makes the attack less predictable.
Tara McKeown, USWNT: The defender from Washington Spirit has become a regular member of the USWNT squads in 2025. Her previous experience as a forward provides her with an advantage in possession, frequently allowing her to advance into the midfield or play incisive long passes. McKeown`s shift to center-back has been smooth, highlighting her tactical awareness, calmness, and game-reading skills.
Storylines to watch
USWNT: This match represents a crucial last chance for players to impress the coaching staff before the upcoming game against Canada. After this series of summer matches, the team won`t play again until the international window in October. With only 13 months remaining until the 2027 FIFA Women`s World Cup qualifiers in the Concacaf W Championship, the focus will shift to refining tactics and working with a smaller core group of players. Expect players with fewer national team appearances to put in maximum effort to challenge Hayes` future selection decisions.
Republic of Ireland: As the UEFA Nations League approaches, the Girls in Green will be eager to finish this series with a more competitive performance against the world`s top-ranked team. Coach Carla Ward faces more limited player options than initially expected for this second match against the USWNT. Captain Denise O`Sullivan and Megan Campbell, who missed the Denver game, have also been confirmed unavailable for the return match in Cincinnati.
Prediction
The outcome will heavily depend on Ireland`s available players after their difficult loss on Thursday. However, the team will be determined to avoid conceding four goals to the USWNT once more. Despite this, Emma Hayes` squad is still expected to secure the victory, potentially after an initial period of resistance. Prediction: USWNT 3, Ireland 0
