We at The Equalizer are looking forward to covering this year’s World Cup in depth, but we’re just as excited about the future. In two months, the United States competes at another major finals event. But in three months, a new tournament cycle begins. With that in mind, we want to think one step ahead, and assess the major prospects that could carry the national team forward. These are our top 50 U.S. women’s national team prospects to watch out for ahead of the World Cup in 2027. This is the next generation, part four.
About the series
Because this series focuses on the future of the United States women’s national team, we are only considering players who will be under the age of 27 when the 2023 World Cup ends. Due to the complexity of comparing college and professional players, this series is limited players who are already pros. A lot can change in the next four years, so we aren’t ranking these players purely on form. Some of them are not at the peak of their powers right now; others aren’t necessarily playing in their best position.
See players No. 50 through 41 here.
See players No. 40 through 31 here.
See players No. 30 through 21 here.
20. Jenna Nighswonger
- Age: 22
- Position: Midfielder/Wingback
- Club: NJ/NY Gotham
Selected fourth overall in this year’s NWSL Draft, Nighswonger arrived at Gotham as a tricky playmaker with a sublime left foot. The 22-year-old can open up defenses with pinpoint through balls or quality set piece delivery, and possesses a dangerous shot. She bagged her fair share of goals as well as assists in college, and recently got off the mark professionally, against Chicago. Nighswonger is a gifted creative midfielder, but has also played at left wingback for Gotham, and could potentially present the U.S. with a more attack-minded option in that position down the line.
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