USWNT Looks to Bounce Back Against Brazil in Final Pre-World Cup Friendly

The United States Women’s National Team will look to bounce back after a 2-1 loss in São Paulo as they face Brazil in their final friendly before the 2026 international break. The match kicks off at 8:30pm Eastern from Fortaleza’s Arena Castelão, with TNT and HBO Max carrying the broadcast in English.

The U.S. team has faced growing pressure to prove consistency ahead of the 2027 Women’s World Cup in Brazil. Head coach Emma Hayes has stressed the importance of fighting through adversity, especially on the road. “Embrace the moment and accept that everything could go against you,” Hayes said. “We need to be resilient.”

Brazil, meanwhile, is using these matches to build momentum for their home World Cup in 2027. The team drew a raucous crowd in São Paulo, and the atmosphere in Fortaleza is expected to be even louder. Brazil has shown a dangerous ability to exploit space and break through defenses quickly, making them a tough opponent for the USWNT.

With the U.S. coming off a loss, the team must regroup quickly. Stars like Sophia Smith and Lindsey Horan will be expected to lead the charge. Brazil’s attacking trio of Marta, Debinha, and Andressa Alves will present a significant threat, as they have combined for 12 goals in their last five matches.

The U.S. has a 10-3-1 record in friendlies against Brazil in the last five years, but recent results have been less dominant. Their last three matches against Brazil have ended in a 1-0 win, a 2-2 draw, and a 2-1 loss. The USWNT must find a way to shut down Brazil’s counterattacks and maintain possession in the final third.

The match will be streamed on HBO Max, Peacock in Spanish, and FuboTV, which offers a free trial. Fans can also catch the action on TNT.

With the 2027 World Cup just over a year away, this final friendly is a key step for both teams. The U.S. must prove it can handle pressure and bounce back from defeat. Brazil will look to build confidence and test their home advantage. The next step for the USWNT comes in the fall, when the team will begin preparations for the 2027 cycle in earnest.