The United States women’s national team began its 2026 calendar with a statement performance, rolling past Paraguay 6-0 in a friendly at Dignity Health Sports Park in Carson, California. The match was less about tension and more about evaluation—an opportunity to integrate new players, test combinations, and set an attacking tone for the year.
Reilyn Turner opened the scoring late in the first half, and the second half turned into a wave of U.S. pressure. Ally Sentnor scored twice as the Americans widened the gap, while additional goals and an own goal completed the rout. The U.S. controlled possession and tempo for long stretches, limiting Paraguay’s chances and repeatedly creating high-quality looks in the attacking third.
One of the most closely watched elements was the return of Trinity Rodman, who scored and was involved in multiple threatening sequences. Her presence added pace and directness on the wing, and her minutes served as a key step in managing her fitness after time away. The match also offered extended glimpses of other younger contributors, a priority as the program continues building depth across multiple positions.
The friendly also carried a reflective note as tributes acknowledged Christen Press’ retirement in 2025, linking a new generation’s opportunity to the legacy of the players who helped define the team’s modern era. For coach and staff, the performance provided a useful baseline: a clean sheet, varied scoring sources, and a clear sense of what combinations worked best in and around the penalty area.
While friendlies don’t decide trophies, they do shape selections. The U.S. now turns toward upcoming matches and a broader schedule designed to refine tactics and chemistry. For the players on the fringes, games like this are critical auditions—proof that they can execute the team’s pressing and possession principles while delivering end product in front of goal.
- Result: United States 6, Paraguay 0 (friendly in Carson, California).
- Standouts: Ally Sentnor scored twice; Trinity Rodman scored in her return; Reilyn Turner opened the scoring.
- Takeaway: early-season match used to test depth and attacking combinations with a dominant clean-sheet win.