U.S. Under-20 Women’s Team Preps for Spain Camp Ahead of 2026 World Cup
The United States Under‑20 Women’s National Team is set to travel to Spain for a ten‑day training camp and a series of matches that run from June 1 through June 9. Under the guidance of head coach Vicky Jepson, the squad brings together a blend of collegiate standouts and professional players from the National Women’s Soccer League, giving the team a unique mix of fresh talent and seasoned experience.
The roster consists of exactly twenty athletes, half of whom earned their spots through college programs while the other half come from NWSL clubs. The average age of the group sits at 18.8 years, with most players born in 2006, 2007 or 2008, underscoring the youthful energy that will define the side.
Among the standout names are Kimmi Ascanio, the youngest member of the squad yet one of its most experienced players, and forward Melanie Barcenas, who netted key goals at the 2024 U‑17 World Cup. Midfielder Kennedy Fuller, another 2024 U‑17 World Cup scorer, joins a group that also features Emeri Adames and Caroline Birkel, both members of the 2024 U‑20 World Cup third‑place finish.
The preparation schedule includes two fixtures against France in Spain, giving the Americans a chance to test tactical ideas against a strong opponent. In addition, the team will soon turn its focus to the 2026 FIFA U‑20 Women’s World Cup, where they are slated to compete in a group with Italy, Japan and New Zealand.
Veteran presence remains a cornerstone of the side. Players such as Onyeka Gamero, who is recovering from ACL surgery and has already appeared in three matches for Bay FC this season, and Aven Alvarez, Lizzie Boamah, and Kiara Gilmore add depth. The coaching staff believes the combination of youthful vigor and prior World Cup exposure will give the United States a competitive edge as they aim to make a deep run in the upcoming tournament.
The upcoming camp in Jerez de la Frontera will also serve as a showcase for the growing pipeline of talent that the U.S. federation has cultivated over recent years. With the support of partners such as FIFA and the National Women’s Soccer League, the team hopes to translate its preparation into a historic performance on the world stage.