Catarina Macario is making her much-anticipated return to the United States women’s national team for the upcoming SheBelieves Cup, marking her first call-up since June 2024. U.S. head coach Emma Hayes unveiled a 23-player roster on Tuesday, featuring matches against powerhouse teams—Australia, Colombia, and Japan. This friendly tournament is more than just another series of games; it’s a crucial opportunity for the team to showcase its growth and potential as they prepare for future competitions.
For context, Macario last donned the national team colors on June 1, 2024, a hopeful day that unfortunately became overshadowed by her ongoing recovery from a torn ACL. She was initially slated to be part of the Olympic roster but had to step back due to knee issues lingering from the injury. However, there’s good news: she has seen an increase in her playing time at Chelsea, where she was a key contributor with three consecutive starts at the league level since the beginning of 2025. Her return signals not just a personal triumph but a boost for the team—her skills and attitude could be exactly what they need to reignite their competitive edge.
The SheBelieves Cup roster reflects a team in transition, with only 12 players from last year’s Olympic gold-winning squad making the cut. Four players, including defenders Tara McKeown and Gisele Thompson, midfielder Claire Hutton, and forward Michelle Cooper, will be looking to earn their first caps. This fresh energy and talent bring an exciting dynamic to the squad as they embark on this new chapter under Hayes’s leadership.
Hayes expressed enthusiasm for the ongoing evolution of the team: “This team is still evolving, and I’m continually impressed by our players’ commitment to improvement, both individually and as a collective.” She acknowledges that with many players beginning their club preseasons, patience will be crucial during this preparatory phase. The hope is that every session together strengthens their connection on and off the field, ultimately preparing them for the challenges ahead.
Notably, the entire starting forward line from the Olympic team has been excluded from this roster. Trinity Rodman continues her recovery from a back injury, Mallory Swanson is managing personal commitments, and Sophia Wilson (formerly Smith) is not yet ready to compete following an ankle injury that sidelined her. Furthermore, midfielder Rose Lavelle, fresh off ankle surgery, and defender Naomi Girma, who is healing from a calf injury, will not be featured, emphasizing how quickly roster dynamics can shift due to injuries and personal obligations.
These changes highlight the resilience of the U.S. team as they adapt without their usual stars. With only two goalkeepers named—Jane Campbell and Mandy McGlynn—the team must navigate their evolving roles, especially in the wake of two-time World Cup champion Alyssa Naeher’s retirement.
Fans will be keeping an eye on the four uncapped talents, particularly Gisele Thompson, as her sister Alyssa is also part of the roster. This moment marks a rare occasion in team history—siblings playing together, which adds a heartwarming touch to the competition.
Although Manchester United goalkeeper Phallon Tullis-Joyce, Angel City defender Savy King, and Bay FC’s Hannah Bebar won’t officially join the roster, they’re getting valuable experience during team practices. This creates an environment of growth and opportunity, which is essential for the future of the U.S. women’s soccer program.
The tournament kicks off on February 20th against Colombia in Houston, with subsequent matches against Australia and Japan. Hayes has emphasized the importance of these encounters, describing them as vital tests against teams with unique playing styles. “We need to give players opportunities,” she stated, reflecting a commitment to fostering talent while keeping the competitive spirit alive.
In a world where the stakes are high and excellence is expected, the SheBelieves Cup represents more than a platform for competition; it is a chance for players to shine, for new stories to unfold, and for the legacy of U.S. women’s soccer to continue thriving. As the team gears up, fans can expect both thrilling matches and a glimpse into the bright future of women’s soccer in the nation. The excitement is palpable, and like many dedicated supporters, you can’t help but feel a sense of unity and pride as they head into this challenge together.
