Howell Replaced Coffey on USWNT Roster for Friendlies

Jaelin Howell joined the national team squad following Sam Coffey's injury during a recent club match.

Updated on Oct. 5, 2026 in Soccer

Howell Replaced Coffey on USWNT Roster for Friendlies

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The U.S. women's national team has added Jaelin Howell to its roster for upcoming friendlies after Sam Coffey withdrew due to an injury. The change comes as the team prepares for training in Atlanta ahead of matches against Spain.

Why it matters

The roster shift impacts team depth as the squad prepares for critical competition. These friendlies serve as a final test for the group before World Cup qualifiers begin in November.

Jaelin Howell, 26, has earned six caps and scored one goal for the senior team since her 2020 debut. She has started every match for Gotham FC during the 2025 season.

The players

Jaelin Howell

She is a 26-year-old midfielder who plays professionally for Gotham FC and has been a member of the national program since 2020.

Sam Coffey

She is a 27-year-old midfielder currently playing for Manchester City who will remain with her club for injury assessment.

Naomi Girma

She is a professional soccer player who withdrew from the national team roster after sustaining an injury while playing for Chelsea.

Kate Del Fava

She is a professional soccer player who was called up to the national team roster to provide depth following injury withdrawals.

The details

Jaelin Howell replaces Sam Coffey, who sustained an injury during Manchester City's 4-1 victory over Arsenal. Additionally, Kate Del Fava has been called up to replace Naomi Girma, who was injured while playing for Chelsea.

Jaelin Howell made her senior debut for the USWNT in 2020.
The team is scheduled to play two friendlies against Spain in October 2026.
A match against Spain is set for October 13, 2026, in Philadelphia.
World Cup qualifiers are slated to begin in November 2026.

The Big Picture

The use of the Arthur M. Blank U.S. Soccer National Training Center for roster preparation remains a central feature of the team's ongoing development cycle. This training camp marks the latest stage of team preparation held at this specific facility as the roster adjusts for international matches.

These roster changes alter the available lineup for the upcoming friendlies against Spain. Fans and analysts should track how these new additions, Howell and Del Fava, integrate into the midfield and defensive rotations during the October camp.

The takeaway

Roster fluidity is a standard aspect of preparing for major international tournaments like the World Cup. Staying updated on injury reports and replacement calls helps followers understand the evolving strategy of the coaching staff.