USWNT opens 2026 with 6–0 win over Paraguay as new faces shine and Rodman returns to the scoresheet
The U.S. women’s national team began its 2026 slate with a 6–0 friendly win over Paraguay in Carson, California. A debut goal set the tone and a wave of second-half scoring showcased depth as the team builds toward major tournaments later this year.
A dominant January Camp performance in Carson
The United States women’s national team started its 2026 season with a commanding 6–0 victory over Paraguay in a friendly at Dignity Health Sports Park in Carson, California. The match served as an early benchmark for a squad balancing returning stars with emerging players, and it delivered a clear message about depth and attacking options as the team looks ahead to a packed calendar and longer-term qualification goals.
The U.S. controlled play for long stretches and translated that possession into consistent chances. One of the key storylines was the impact of newcomers and less-capped players, who turned the match into a showcase of finishing, movement, and midfield pressure. The scoring opened before halftime and accelerated after the break, with the U.S. repeatedly breaking lines and creating high-quality looks in the box.
Rodman returns, and the next stretch comes quickly
Trinity Rodman’s return added both pace and a leadership note to the night, and she got on the scoresheet as the U.S. pulled away. The game also functioned as a springboard into the next set of fixtures, with upcoming opponents offering chances to test combinations, refine pressing triggers, and assess which emerging players can carry responsibilities in higher-leverage matches.
Beyond the scoreline, the friendly provided useful clues about the team’s approach: aggressive wide play, quick ball circulation, and a willingness to rotate personnel without losing cohesion. For coaching staff, the priority now is to translate this kind of one-sided performance into sustainable systems against stronger opponents, where defensive transitions and chance efficiency become more decisive.
- Final: United States 6, Paraguay 0 (friendly in Carson, California).
- A mix of newcomers and established players drove the scoring and tempo.
- The match begins a year focused on building form ahead of major competitions.