USWNT opens 2026 with 6–0 friendly win over Paraguay led by new faces and Rodman return
The U.S. women’s national team began its 2026 slate with a lopsided victory over Paraguay in California, featuring standout performances from newcomers and a notable leadership moment for Trinity Rodman in her return from injury.
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- Lagos Tribune News Desk
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The United States women’s national team started its 2026 season with a commanding 6–0 win over Paraguay in a friendly at Dignity Health Sports Park in Carson, California. The match showcased an influx of emerging talent alongside established stars, with the U.S. controlling possession and generating chances throughout the night. ([timesunion.com](https://www.timesunion.com/sports/article/uswnt-game-paraguay-trinity-rodman-christen-press-21311555.php?utm_source=openai))
Reilyn Turner, making her first international appearance and start, opened the scoring just before halftime, setting the tone for a second-half surge. Ally Sentnor scored twice, and the U.S. added goals through Trinity Rodman—returning from injury and captaining for the first time—plus Emma Sears and an own goal, turning a comfortable lead into a rout. ([timesunion.com](https://www.timesunion.com/sports/article/uswnt-game-paraguay-trinity-rodman-christen-press-21311555.php?utm_source=openai))
Beyond the scoreline, the night served as a barometer for the program’s next phase: integrating new contributors while maintaining the aggressive pressing and chance-creation identity that has defined the team for years. Rodman’s return was especially notable, combining a visible leadership role with direct production, a combination the coaching staff will want as competitive fixtures intensify later in the year. ([timesunion.com](https://www.timesunion.com/sports/article/uswnt-game-paraguay-trinity-rodman-christen-press-21311555.php?utm_source=openai))
The friendly also included tributes connected to Christen Press’ career following her retirement in 2025, underscoring the generational transition taking place in the roster. Supporters saw both continuity and change: familiar control in midfield and attack, paired with newer names taking responsibility in key moments. ([timesunion.com](https://www.timesunion.com/sports/article/uswnt-game-paraguay-trinity-rodman-christen-press-21311555.php?utm_source=openai))
The U.S. will continue its early-year schedule with additional friendlies and preparations for major competitive objectives ahead, using these windows to evaluate depth, chemistry, and leadership hierarchy. For now, the opener delivered a clear message: the talent pipeline remains strong, and the 2026 campaign is starting with confidence and experimentation in tandem. ([timesunion.com](https://www.timesunion.com/sports/article/uswnt-game-paraguay-trinity-rodman-christen-press-21311555.php?utm_source=openai))