The US U-20 Women’s World Cup roster is officially out, and Seattle Reign FC’s own Evan O’Steen is on the plane to Poland! Head coach Vicky Jepson just dropped the 21-player squad for the 2026 FIFA U20 Women’s World Cup, which kicks off September 5 and runs all the way to the final on September 27. Twenty-four national teams are battling it out, and you know we’ll be watching to see what our Emerald City talent can do.
A Roster Built for Glory: College Stars and NWSL Power
Coach Jepson put together a seriously special group, mixing up collegiate athletes and seasoned professional players. “We have selected a special group of players who bring a broad and diverse range of qualities from both the college and professional game,” Jepson said, adding that everyone understands “it takes everyone to win a World Cup.” That’s the mentality we love to hear! What’s even crazier? Eight of these 21 players are already tearing it up in the NWSL. That’s some serious top-tier experience for a U20 squad, right? It’s a huge boost, and it’s something we’ve seen before, with the 2024 U20 team that snagged a third-place finish also boasting eight pros.
Reign FC’s Own Represents on the World Stage
Our Seattle Reign FC is one of just six NWSL clubs sending players to this tournament, alongside Bay FC, Chicago Stars FC, Houston Dash, Kansas City Current, and Racing Louisville FC. And for us, it’s all about Evan O’Steen! This Grapevine, Texas native is one of three goalkeepers named to the squad, and she’s already got two U-20 caps under her belt. Imagine playing for your country on the world’s biggest stage at that age! It’s a massive deal, and we know O’Steen is going to bring that Reign FC fire with her. Other goalkeepers include Caroline Birkel from Stanford and Kealey Titmuss from Penn State. On defense, we’re looking at players like Aven Alvarez, Ella Bard, Lizzie Boamah, Pearl Cecil, Emma Johnson, and Hope Munson.
The Grind Is Real, The Pride Is Massive
Of course, a roster this stacked always has some tough calls. Bay FC’s Claire Hutton, who was eligible, isn’t on the list, and neither are San Diego Wave FC’s Melanie Barcenas and Kimmie Ascanio. It’s a grind for these clubs and players, especially since the FIFA U20 World Cup operates in an unofficial window, meaning it can totally conflict with club schedules. But Jepson knows the sacrifice. “This group wears the crest with honor, and we’re excited to see what they can accomplish together,” she said. She also gave a shout-out to the NWSL clubs and colleges for letting their players go, calling it a “once-in-a-lifetime chance” and an “invaluable growth experience.” These young women, born on or after January 1, 2006, are ready to show the world what they’ve got.
So, get ready, Seattle! Mark your calendars for September 5. Our very own Evan O’Steen and this incredible U20 team are heading to Poland, and we can’t wait to see them make some noise! Go USA, and Go Reign!
This article was created with AI assistance and published under Seattle On Tap’s editorial standards. See our Editorial Policy.
Originally reported by CBS Sports.
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