While some of the more veteran U.S. stars stepped away to start families or rest nagging injuries this year, coach Emma Hayes got a good look at the future of the national team and developed depth with an eye toward the 2027 Women's World Cup.

The young players, meanwhile, made the most of the opportunity.

The United States played its final two matches of 2025 against Italy, wrapping up on Monday night with a 2-0 victory . It was a solid test to end the year: The Italians are ranked No. 12 in the world and played in the Women's European Championship semifinals this summer.

The United States closed out the year ranked No. 2 in the world with a 12-3-0 record, scoring 41 total goals and allowing just eight. The national team lost 2-1 to Japan in the She Believes Cup, 2-1 to Brazil in Apr

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