USWNT Views Spain Friendlies as the Ultimate Test Before World Cup Qualifying

The U.S. Women’s National Team (USWNT) is set to face Spain in two high-profile international friendlies this October, with both matches serving as the team’s final preparation before CONCACAF Women’s World Cup Qualifying begins.

The highly anticipated fixtures will take place on October 10 at Audi Field and October 13 at Subaru Park, giving fans the opportunity to watch two of the world’s strongest women’s national teams compete.

More Than Just Friendly Matches

Although officially labeled as friendlies, the USWNT is treating these encounters with the seriousness of a major tournament.

Midfielder Sam Coffey emphasized that every match represents an opportunity to improve and compete at the highest level.

According to Coffey, facing the world’s top-ranked team provides the perfect opportunity to evaluate the squad ahead of an important qualifying campaign. She believes the team has consistently challenged itself throughout the year and expects Spain to offer another demanding test.

Renewing a Growing Rivalry

The United States won the first three meetings between the two nations, but Spain claimed a memorable 2-0 victory in 2022, a result that marked a turning point in the rivalry.

That victory came before Spain went on to capture the 2023 FIFA Women’s World Cup, establishing itself as one of the dominant forces in international women’s football.

Since then, Spain has remained among the world’s highest-ranked teams thanks to its technical quality, tactical discipline, and experienced core of players.

Learning From Previous Meetings

Coffey, who featured during the 2022 defeat, recalled the quality Spain displayed across the pitch.

She highlighted the team’s outstanding technical ability, strong chemistry, and understanding developed through many of their players competing together at club level. Those qualities continue to make Spain one of the most difficult opponents in women’s football.

European Experience Gives USWNT Confidence

Several members of the current USWNT squad now regularly compete against Spain’s top players in European club competitions.

Midfielder Lily Yohannes recently completed an impressive debut season with Lyon, helping the French club win multiple domestic trophies and reach the UEFA Women’s Champions League Final.

Having faced many Spanish internationals at club level, Yohannes believes those experiences will help prepare her for October’s international matches.

Playing regularly against elite European competition has allowed several young American players to gain valuable experience before representing their country on one of the biggest stages.

Important Preparation Before World Cup Qualifying

The October friendlies arrive after a challenging year in which the United States has faced several of the world’s strongest national teams, including Brazil, Canada, Japan, and now Spain.

Rather than avoiding difficult opponents, head coach Emma Hayes has intentionally scheduled elite competition to ensure the team is fully prepared for the road to the 2027 FIFA Women’s World Cup.

Facing world-class opposition gives the coaching staff an opportunity to evaluate tactics, squad depth, and player development before competitive qualifiers begin.

Looking Ahead

While Spain currently holds the No. 1 spot in the FIFA Women’s World Rankings, the USWNT remains confident in its own ability.

The squad believes that by focusing on its strengths, maintaining its identity, and executing its game plan, it can compete with—and defeat—any team in the world.

With World Cup qualifying fast approaching, these October matches may be friendlies in name, but for the USWNT they represent one of the most valuable tests of the year.