After struggles v Spain, the USWNT’s midfield puzzle won’t be easily solved

Jeff Rueter writes for the Guardian that the US women's national team is struggling with midfield cohesion following difficult friendly matches against Spain. Spain controlled both fixtures, winning the first 2-0 and taking a two-goal lead in the second before the United States rallied for a 2-2 draw. Rueter argues that ongoing roster experimentation and frequent injuries have hindered manager Emma Hayes from building essential synergy.

Hayes has fielded 17 different three-midfielder combinations across 27 matches since the start of 2025. The consensus preferred trio of Sam Coffey, Lindsey Heaps, and Rose Lavelle has started together only twice in 20 months. Rueter suggests that without established partnerships in the center of the park, the team risks falling short against organized heavyweights at major tournaments.