U.S. head coach Vicky Jepsen has named a 20‑player roster that will gather for a week‑long training camp in Spain ahead of the 2026 FIFA U‑20 Women’s World Cup.
The camp, scheduled from June 1 to June 9, will see the squad face France in two friendly matches on June 5 and June 8, providing a crucial test before the tournament kicks off.
Among the selected athletes are Aven Alvarez and Hope Munson, both standouts from the Carolina women’s soccer program, who have been regulars on the U‑20 Women’s National Team throughout the year.
Munson also attended an early‑March camp in California, underscoring her ongoing involvement with the national setup.
The training environment will be highlighted by a reunion with former Tar Heels star Linda Ullmark, who will join the camp as a guest coach, adding a nostalgic link to the program’s recent history.
Preparing for a Global Showdown
The United States will open its World Cup campaign against Italy, Japan and New Zealand in Poland, a group that promises a blend of technical skill and physical intensity.
All group‑stage matches are slated to be played at Stadion Miejski LKS Lodz in Lodz and Arena Sosnowiec in Sosnowiec, venues that will host a total of six games across the tournament.
Beyond the immediate friendlies, the U‑20 squad has a history of competitive encounters, having faced Brazil previously with a record of one win, one draw and one loss, a testament to the team’s growing resilience.
Coach Jepsen emphasized that the Spain camp is as much about tactical cohesion as it is about building confidence ahead of the global showcase.
With the tournament just months away, the U.S. coaching staff is focused on fine‑tuning strategies, integrating new talent, and ensuring that the team arrives in Poland ready to compete at the highest level.