Emma Hayes tops the news as USWNT head coach in the spotlight, after a storied Chelsea reign (2012–2024) with seven WSL titles.
The United States has outplayed Brazil in the second women’s friendly, but a 63rd-minute shot by Sophia Wilson deflects off Isabela Chagas for an own goal to give the U.S. a 1-0 lead that becomes Brazil’s lone goal in a 2-1 loss. Brazil’s coach Arthur Elias and several players are sent off, and the match ends with eight red cards after late-aggression and dissent. Marta features as a late substitute, while Dudinha is stretchered off with an injury in Fortaleza. The U.S. will next play El Salvador in the CONCACAF W Championship.
Iraq has earned its place at the 2026 World Cup under Australian coach Graham Arnold, marking the country’s return to the tournament after 40 years. Arnold has steered the team through a lengthy qualifying campaign, with travel disruptions and geopolitical tensions shaping the road to the tournament.
FIFA has enforced new on-field rules at the 2026 World Cup that have provoked disputes: Miguel Almirón has received the tournament's first red card for covering his mouth, broadcasters and fans have criticised mandatory three-minute hydration breaks, and a VAR official was investigated over a hand gesture but cleared. Players, coaches and commentators are publicly divided.