USWNT Honors Retirees Morgan, Naeher in October Friendlies

The U.S. women's national team (USWNT) will play three international friendlies in October, starting with two matches against Portugal on October 23 and 26, followed by a third game at Kansas City's CPKC Stadium on October 29 against an opponent yet to be announced. The October 23 match at Subaru Park in Chester, Pennsylvania, will honor Alex Morgan, who retired last year with 123 international goals and scored her first U.S. goal at that stadium in 2010. The October 26 game at Pratt & Whitney Stadium in East Hartford, Connecticut, will pay tribute to Alyssa Naeher, a Connecticut native and former USWNT goalkeeper who retired from international play last year. The Kansas City match will mark the USWNT's first game at the soccer-specific CPKC Stadium, a smaller venue than usual but significant for the growth of women's soccer, with approval from the USWNT Players Association. U.S. head coach Emma Hayes noted that these matches are opportunities to continue team development ahead of World Cup qualifying, while also acknowledging the growing competitiveness of Portugal. Additionally, the October 26 match will feature a doubleheader with the U.S. Men's Deaf National Team, highlighting inclusivity and expanding support for diverse national teams.