Predicting USWNT lineup for friendly rematch with Spain - Could several changes turn the tide?

In the first of two friendly matches between the USWNT and Spain, Emma Hayes rolled out perhaps her strongest possible lineup. Unfortunately, things didn’t go as planned in a 2-0 loss to the reigning World Cup champs. That puts a little pressure on the USWNT to get a result in Tuesday’s rematch.

Predicted USWNT for Spain rematch

Of course, Hayes likely has some lineup changes planned from the first game to the second game. While Spain presents a great litmus test for the U.S., these two games are still an opportunity to get as many players as possible experience against a high-level opponent. That should lead to some lineup changes in our prediction for Tuesday’s starting 11.

Phallon Tullis-Joyce (GK)

Claudia Dickey got the start in Saturday’s game, and while it’s hard to blame her for the two goals conceded, it’s only fair that Tullis-Joyce gets a chance to start. For the moment, there still appears to be an open competition between the two. Tullis-Joyce has had some ups and downs with Manchester United this season, but a game against Spain is her chance to claim the USWNT’s starting job.

Lilly Reale (LB)

Avery Patterson had a rough first half on Saturday, with Gisele Thompson taking her spot at halftime. Now it’s Reale’s chance to show what she can do in the open competition for the left-back spot. Reale didn’t play at all in the two games against Brazil in June, but she’s played well enough for Boston Legacy to be given a shot at being the USWNT’s left back next summer.

Tierna Davidson (CB)

Davidson was the better of the two American center backs on Saturday. She also has the most upside when it comes to pairing with Naomi Girma at the World Cup. After missing so much time due to injury in recent years, Davidson needs as much playing time as possible to get her back to the level she was playing at before injuries derailed her.

Tara Rudd (CB)

With Kennedy Wesley getting the start on Saturday, it makes sense for Rudd to pair with Davidson in the second match. Other than Davidson, she’s the most experienced center-back on the roster for these matches. Rudd is also a safe bet to be on the World Cup roster next summer, so giving her exposure against a top team like Spain is an important part of getting her ready for her first World Cup.

Gisele Thompson (RB)

After playing 45 minutes off the bench on Saturday, Thompson will get a chance to start at her normal position on Tuesday. While she’s not a threat to overtake Emily Fox as the starter at right-back, Hayes needs to know that Thompson is still the best option to deputize for Fox if necessary.

Claire Hutton (CM)

It was a little surprising to see Hutton begin Saturday’s game on the bench, especially with Sam Coffey unavailable. The 20-year-old was solid coming off the bench for the final 25 minutes. It’s reasonable to think that Hayes will want to test her with a full 90 minutes against Spain’s midfield.

Jaelin Howell (CM)

Howell is lacking international experience and wasn’t used at all in Saturday’s game. However, she’s been outstanding for Gotham during the NWSL season. She deserves a chance to play against Spain and prove to Hayes that she’s deserving of a World Cup roster spot. This might be her last chance to do just that.

Lindsey Heaps (AM)

As the captain, it’s a safe bet Heaps will be starting on Tuesday, even if she doesn’t play the full 90 minutes. In Saturday’s game, Heaps did a good job of controlling the midfield and playing both sides of the ball. It looks like Hayes is committed to riding it out with Heaps through the World Cup, so she’s always going to be involved.

Alyssa Thompson (LW)

Thompson didn’t have her best game on Saturday, creating just one chance. The USWNT looked more dangerous on the right side where Trinity Rodman was playing. There’s a chance Hayes will give the start to Ashley Sanchez to give her a longer audition. But Thompson is still the best left winger the USWNT has right now.

Michelle Cooper (RW)

Hayes has always had a soft spot for Cooper, who was enjoying a strong run of form with Kansas City before the international break. Obviously, Rodman is still the preferred option on the right wing. But when it comes to assessing squad depth, Hayes will benefit more from starting Cooper at right wing on Tuesday and perhaps bringing Emma Sears off the bench later in the game.

Mallory Swanson (ST)

The 24 minutes Swanson played off the bench on Saturday were her first minutes with the USWNT since October 2024. With just two NWSL goals this season, it’s clear she’s still shaking off the rust after her maternity leave. But everybody knows what Swanson brings to the table when she’s at her best. The more minutes she plays, the closer Swanson will get to being a meaningful contributor to the USWNT, which is why it makes sense for Hayes to give her the start on Tuesday.

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