Jesslyn Kuhnel Sets U.S. CP Soccer Scoring Record

The forward scored a hat trick during a 6-2 victory over Finland in the opening match of the 2026 IFCPF Women's World Cup.

Updated on Oct. 16, 2026 in Soccer

Expressive editorial sports illustration of a US soccer forward mid-stride, rendered in navy blue, red, and white. — Forward Jesslyn Kuhnel set the U.S. CP Soccer scoring record with a hat trick in a 6-2 victory over Finland. AI Illustration. Upload story photo >

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Jesslyn Kuhnel became the all-time leading scorer for the U.S. Women's Cerebral Palsy National Team after netting three goals against Finland. The performance helped the United States secure a 6-2 win in their 2026 IFCPF Women's World Cup opener.

Why it matters

Kuhnel has established herself as a centerpiece of the national program, following her recognition as the 2025 U.S. Soccer Cerebral Palsy Female Player of the Year.

Kuhnel has tallied 25 goals across 16 international appearances for the U.S. team. Her latest hat trick secured the 6-2 win over Finland.

The players

Jesslyn Kuhnel

She is a record-setting forward for the U.S. Women's Cerebral Palsy National Team who earned 2025 Player of the Year honors.

U.S. Women's Cerebral Palsy National Team

This is the elite national soccer program that competes in international CP football tournaments such as the IFCPF World Cup.

The details

Kuhnel, who began playing soccer at age 3 and was diagnosed with cerebral palsy before age 10, was previously the youngest player on the U.S. roster during the 2022 World Cup. Her record-breaking performance cements her status as a prolific offensive leader for the national squad.

2022: Made inaugural World Cup appearance for the U.S. team.
2025: Named U.S. Soccer CP Player of the Year.
October 15, 2026: Scored a hat trick to set the all-time U.S. scoring record.
October 17, 2026: U.S. match against Japan.
October 21, 2026: World Cup semifinals.

Season Trajectory

This dominant opening win puts the United States in a strong position as they progress through the 2026 IFCPF Women's World Cup bracket. The team's momentum depends on their upcoming group performance against Japan to secure a path to the October 21 semifinals.

Kuhnel's 25 career goals establish a new offensive benchmark for the U.S. program heading into the knockout rounds of the World Cup. Fans should track the upcoming match against Japan, as the result will determine the squad's seeding heading into the semifinal round.

The takeaway

Kuhnel's rise from youth recreational soccer in Callaway to international record-setter illustrates the growing impact of specialized development programs for athletes with disabilities. Her path highlights the importance of consistent long-term training in achieving elite-level success.

What happens next

The United States is scheduled to play Japan on October 17, 2026, followed by the tournament semifinals on October 21 and the final on October 23, 2026.