North Carolina Courage forward Ashley Sanchez, the NWSL's leading scorer with 20 goals, has been recalled to the USWNT for friendlies against Spain. Sanchez, who last played for the United States in October 2024, said she is focused on getting 'up to speed' with the team's tactics. Playing as a winger for the Courage this season, she acknowledged coach Emma Hayes' expertise and the team's success.
Hayes noted that recently called-up players like Sanchez, Jaelin Howell, and others need time to absorb the tactical details, adding that they 'are going to be behind the rest of the group' in terms of adaptation. Sanchez has three more games with North Carolina to potentially take sole possession of the NWSL scoring record. Hayes confirmed none of the new call-ups will start against Spain, though some 'might' play off the bench depending on their adjustment.
Source: ESPN Soccer · Summarized by HeadlinesBriefing