U.S. Soccer has unveiled the 21‑player roster that will wear the red, white and blue at the first ever 2026 FIFA U‑20 Women’s World Cup, a tournament that will be staged across three continents and three time zones.
The lineup is notable for its blend of collegiate experience and professional promise, headlined by three current University of North Carolina Tar Heels and former national champion Linda Ullmark, who brings a championship pedigree from the Tar Heel program and a recent NWSL Rookie of the Month award.
Among the returnees, Aven Alvarez and Hope Munson have become regulars in the youth national program, earning frequent call‑ups to training camps and international friendlies that have sharpened their competitive edge.
Munson, who has already contributed three goals and two assists this season, adds an attacking spark, while Alvarez’s defensive discipline has limited opponents to just five shots on target all season, underscoring his role as a shut‑down specialist.
Midfielder Sealey Strawn, who earned a spot in the final training camp after a stint with the U‑19 side in Germany, provides depth and versatility in the middle of the park.
Veteran forward Linda Ullmark, a three‑time national champion at UNC and recent NWSL Rookie of the Month with the Houston Dash, brings championship experience and top‑flight know‑how to the attack.
Road to the Group Stage
The United States opens its campaign against Italy on September 6, faces Japan on September 7, and concludes the group phase with a match against New Zealand on September 10, a sequence that will test the squad’s depth and adaptability.
Broadcast and Viewing
All matches will be aired in English on the FOX family of networks, giving U.S. fans a chance to follow the young stars from the opening whistle.