USWNT opens 2026 with 6-0 win over Paraguay as new faces shine and Rodman scores

A strong start for a new year

The United States women’s national team began its 2026 schedule with a decisive 6-0 victory over Paraguay in a friendly on January 24, 2026, at Dignity Health Sports Park in Carson, California. The match showcased both established contributors and a new generation of players pushing into meaningful roles.

The U.S. controlled play for long stretches, using quick passing and wide combinations to create chances while limiting Paraguay’s ability to build sustained attacks. With heavy pressure in the final third, the Americans repeatedly forced defensive errors and won the ball back quickly after losing possession.

Newcomers make their mark

Reilyn Turner scored in her first international start, setting the tone before the match opened up further after halftime. Ally Sentnor scored twice as the U.S. turned dominance into goals, while other contributors added to a scoreline that reflected the game’s overall balance of chances and territorial control.

Performances like these matter beyond the single result: friendlies early in the year often function as auditions for deeper tournament squads, and the coaching staff is evaluating how well newer players handle pace, defensive transitions and high-pressure finishing opportunities.

Rodman’s return adds leadership and pace

Trinity Rodman returned from injury, captained the team and scored, providing a combination of direct running and playmaking on the flank. Her presence adds a familiar threat in wide areas, especially important as the team integrates younger players and experiments with attacking patterns.

With more matches ahead, the U.S. will use this window to sharpen chemistry, test lineup combinations and build toward its next major competitive goals, while maintaining standards that demand intensity even in non-competitive fixtures.