USWNT Opens 2026 With Southern California Camp, Paraguay Friendly

USWNT January Camp Kicks Off 2026 in Southern California

USWNT will begin 2026 by launching its annual January training camp in Southern California, a vital step in the team’s preparations for a pivotal year in women’s football. The camp, running from January 17 to 27 at Dignity Health Sports Park, sets the tone for what promises to be an important campaign as the U.S. Women’s National Team gears up for World Cup qualifying and the Concacaf W Championship.

Importance of the USWNT January Camp for Upcoming World Cup Cycle

Head coach Emma Hayes underscored the crucial nature of the January camp, pointing out that uninterrupted training time is a rare commodity for the squad. According to Hayes, “January camp is a vitally important part of our yearly schedule, especially with 2026 being a year that will host World Cup qualifying. We don’t get many training days together during any given year, so there is a high value in getting a whole week of training as well as two matches.” She also reflected on the squad’s encouraging progress in 2025, while acknowledging that continued growth is required as the journey toward the Concacaf W Championship intensifies.

USWNT vs. Paraguay: Celebrating Christen Press’s Legacy

A major highlight of the camp will be the January 24 friendly against Paraguay, which doubles as a special farewell for Los Angeles native Christen Press. After announcing her retirement this year, Press will be honored for a storied career that saw her score 64 international goals, ranking ninth in USWNT history. Her contributions were instrumental in the team’s triumphs at the 2015 and 2019 Women’s World Cups, cementing her legacy as one of America’s greatest forwards.

Return to Dignity Health Sports Park Holds Special Meaning

Returning to Dignity Health Sports Park marks a significant homecoming for the USWNT. Last year’s January camp was relocated to Fort Lauderdale, Florida, due to devastating wildfires in Los Angeles. The stadium, a familiar fortress for the national team, has hosted USWNT matches 21 times—more than any other venue in the team’s history. This year’s return is symbolic, reaffirming the team’s deep-rooted connection to Southern California and its passionate fan base.

USWNT January Fixtures Set the Stage for 2026 Goals

Following the Paraguay match, the camp will conclude with a second friendly on January 27, with the opponent to be announced soon. These matches are not just tune-up games; they represent the first critical steps in the USWNT’s run toward the 2026 Concacaf W Championship, which serves as the qualifying tournament for the next World Cup cycle. The team’s performance in January will provide valuable insights for Hayes and her staff as they evaluate talent, build chemistry, and implement tactical plans for the challenges ahead.

Looking Ahead: Building Momentum for World Cup Qualification

For the USWNT, the January camp is more than just a series of training sessions and games—it’s a foundational period for solidifying the squad’s structure and ambitions. With key players returning and new talents eager to make their mark, the camp will serve as a proving ground for those hoping to earn spots for the crucial fixtures later in the year.

Opinion: USWNT’s Southern California Start Sets the Right Tone

Kicking off 2026 with the USWNT January camp in Southern California is a strategic and symbolic move. Not only does it provide much-needed training time and competitive matches, but it also galvanizes players and fans alike after the disruptions of the previous year. Honoring Christen Press at home is a fitting tribute that bridges the program’s storied past with its promising future. With the World Cup cycle on the horizon, this camp is exactly what the USWNT needs to build momentum and unity as they chase further glory on the world stage. For more news, visit for more news.