USWNT opens 2026 with 6–0 win over Paraguay as young attackers surge and Rodman returns

The United States women’s national team launched its 2026 season in emphatic fashion, beating Paraguay 6–0 in a friendly at Dignity Health Sports Park in Carson, California. The match served as an early marker of depth and attacking ambition, with the U.S. controlling possession and creating chance after chance against a Paraguay side that struggled to relieve pressure for long stretches.

A key storyline was the impact of fresh faces. Reilyn Turner opened the scoring just before halftime in her first international start, giving the U.S. a breakthrough after a first half that featured heavy territorial dominance but needed a cleaner final touch. After the break, the U.S. tempo rose, and the goals followed quickly as the front line repeatedly found space through combination play and aggressive runs in behind.

Ally Sentnor scored twice, turning the second half into a showcase of direct attacking and confident finishing. Trinity Rodman also marked her return from injury with a goal and captained the side, offering a glimpse of how her pace and physicality can stretch defenses and open lanes for teammates. Additional scoring came from Emma Sears and an own goal, rounding out a lopsided result that mirrored the overall balance of play.

The match also included tributes to Christen Press, who retired in 2025, tying the night to the program’s recent history while the current group pushes forward. Next, the U.S. is scheduled to face Chile and then a set of matches against Japan in April, with the broader arc pointing toward the 2026 CONCACAF W Championship and the path to qualification for the 2027 Women’s World Cup. For the U.S., the opener was less a test of survival and more a statement about developing scoring options early in the cycle.