USWNT opens 2026 with 6-0 rout of Paraguay as young attackers shine

The United States women’s national team began its 2026 schedule with an emphatic 6-0 friendly win over Paraguay at Dignity Health Sports Park in Carson, California, showing depth and attacking variety as the program continues to integrate younger talent.

The match featured an early statement from a debutant in the starting lineup: Reilyn Turner scored just before halftime, giving the U.S. a lead that opened the door for an explosive second-half surge. After the break, the Americans ramped up both tempo and pressure, stretching Paraguay’s back line and turning possession into repeated chances.

Ally Sentnor delivered one of the biggest individual impacts, scoring twice as the U.S. repeatedly found space in transition and through quick ball movement around the penalty area. Trinity Rodman—returning from injury—added another key moment, captaining the side and getting on the scoresheet before being substituted, a signal that her role remains central as the team looks ahead to major competitions.

Beyond the goals, the U.S. controlled the game statistically and stylistically, dominating possession and limiting Paraguay to very few attempts. That control allowed the coaching staff to evaluate combinations and assess which younger players can contribute not only as substitutes, but also in meaningful minutes from the start.

The friendly also carried an emotional note with tributes connected to Christen Press, who retired in 2025 after a landmark career. In practice, the match functioned as both a celebration of the program’s recent history and a test run for its next iteration.

With additional matches ahead—including upcoming fixtures against Chile and a series against Japan in April—the result offered an early-season marker: the U.S. attack is replenishing, competition for minutes is intense, and the team is building toward its next qualifying and championship cycle with an expanding player pool.