USWNT vs. Brazil: Live Stream, Lineup, Predictions

The U.S. women’s national soccer team (USWNT) is gearing up for an action-packed series as they prepare to face Brazil during the April international window. Fans can expect a thrilling matchup this Saturday at SoFi Stadium, California, kicking off a two-game exhibition series that continues on April 8 in Northern California. Their last encounter, a tightly contested Olympic gold medal final, set the stage for an exciting rematch that soccer enthusiasts are eagerly anticipating.

Coaching and Team Strategy

Under the guidance of head coach Emma Hayes, the USWNT is focused not only on immediate performance but also on long-term development. Hayes has emphasized the importance of expanding the player pool as they build toward the 2027-28 cycle. The squad features player evaluations and the reintroduction of talent like forward Trinity Rodman, who returns from a back injury sustained after the 2024 NWSL Championship. This phase presents an invaluable opportunity for newer players and established stars to showcase their skills.

Roster Updates and Key Players

This month, the roster sees the return of forwards Ashley Hatch and defender Alana Cook for the first time since 2023. However, the team faced an unfortunate injury setback when defender Tierna Davidson tore her ACL, leading to the last-minute inclusion of Gisele Thompson. These roster changes have raised questions and excitement regarding how the team will come together, especially following their recent loss to Japan at the SheBelieves Cup.

How to Watch

• Date: April 5, 2025
• Time: 5 p.m. ET
• Location: SoFi Stadium, Los Angeles, CA
• TV: TNT
• Live Stream: Max
• Odds: USA -145; +260 Draw; +390 Brazil

Previous Encounters

The last meeting between the two nations was during the 2024 Olympic Gold Medal Final, where a narrow 1-0 victory was secured by the U.S. thanks to Mal Swanson’s early goal and brilliant saves from goalkeeper Alyssa Naeher. That match highlighted the fierce rivalry and importance of these encounters, creating high expectations for the upcoming series.

Insights from the Coaching Staff

Coach Emma Hayes has articulated a vision that focuses on reshaping the USWNT overall. She has initiated dual training camps to blend the senior and U23 teams for greater cohesion. “It’s another opportunity to build chemistry,” Hayes noted, referencing the young average age of the squad and their ongoing growth. These games will serve as a critical platform for developing talent and assessing lineups.

Projected Lineups

As preparation intensifies, analysts have started predicting potential lineups. A suggested starting XI could include goalkeeper Jane Campbell and defenders Emily Fox, Emily Sams, Emily Sonnett, and Crystal Dunn. In the midfield, Sam Coffey, Lily Yohannes, and Lindsey Heaps might anchor the team, while forwards Yazmeen Ryan, Catarina Macario, and Alyssa Thompson could lead the front line. This combination brings both experience and youthful exuberance, essential for a cohesive playing style.

Player Spotlight: Alyssa Thompson

One player to keep an eye on is Alyssa Thompson of Angel City FC. She has made an impressive start in the NWSL season, leading her team in goals scored and demonstrating her capability to take on defenders effectively. Thompson’s agility and offensive creativity will be crucial assets as she aims to make her mark against a seasoned Brazil squad. “They isolate everyone on the field, so creating space will be really important to us,” she remarked, emphasizing the need for strategic play against their opponents.

Storylines to Follow

The expanded player pool presents a unique storyline. While the stakes are lower compared to previous title matches with Brazil, there is still significant evaluation taking place. Both teams are looking to regroup after previous setbacks, making every minute on the pitch matter more than ever. With fresh faces and tried-and-true veterans, these matches will be a testing ground for strategies and team dynamics.

Predictions for the Match

In friendly matches, especially in the initial game of a series, teams tend to exhibit a learning curve as they adjust to each other’s styles. Given Brazil’s wealth of talent playing in the NWSL, this matchup is expected to be closely contested. However, with the right adjustments and strategies, the USWNT is likely to clinch a narrow victory, perhaps a tightly fought 2-1 win, reflecting the potential for goals and excitement on both sides.

For comprehensive coverage and the latest updates, fans can tune into BBC Sport or follow along with CBS Sports for further insights and analysis.