With the 2027 Women’s World Cup fast approaching, the U.S. Women’s National Team is entering a pivotal stretch — and this year’s SheBelieves Cup could be a defining audition for a wave of rising stars.

Head coach Emma Hayes is using the three-game tournament as a proving ground, especially with several established names unavailable. Sophia Wilson and Mallory Swanson are sidelined following the births of their children, Catarina Macario is injured, and Crystal Dunn has retired. That leaves openings across the field — and opportunity for hungry newcomers to make their case.

Eight outfield players on the current roster have fewer than seven international caps. For them, the spotlight is real.

Jameese Joseph has shown flashes of promise up top. The Chicago forward looked far more comfortable playing centrally as a true No. 9 than out wide, using her strength and movement to create chances. While she may need injuries ahead of her to crack a World Cup roster, consistent club performances could accelerate her rise.

Maddie Dahlien brings speed and attacking energy down the left flank. Though naturally a winger, she’s been used at left back, where her dribbling stands out. Defensive consistency will determine whether she can truly compete for a roster spot.

In midfield, Riley Jackson may be one of the most intriguing prospects. The North Carolina standout has drawn comparisons to young phenom Lily Yohannes for her progressive passing and vision. At just 20, Jackson’s composure and ability to break lines could make her a serious contender in a crowded midfield pool.

Defensively, the youth movement is even more compelling.

Gisele Thompson, already with five caps at age 20, looks poised to be a long-term answer at right back. A dynamic attacker who can also tuck inside defensively, she combines elite dribbling with tactical awareness. Many see her as a near-lock for the future — and possibly even for next summer.

On the left side, Lilly Reale offers balance and reliability. She may not dominate in one specific area, but her well-rounded game could give her the edge in a competitive battle for starting left back.

At center back, Kennedy Wesley provides athleticism and versatility, though she faces stiff competition in a deep defensive pool. Meanwhile, 19-year-old Jordyn Bugg has already earned high praise from Hayes as “the future” of the back line. Though injury may limit her immediate impact, her long-term outlook is bright.

The SheBelieves Cup isn’t just another friendly tournament — Hayes has framed it as a simulation of a World Cup group stage. That means pressure, expectations and real consequences for performance.

With roster spots far from settled, this next generation isn’t just filling in. They’re fighting for a ticket to the biggest stage in women’s soccer.

For fans, that makes this tournament must-watch.