U.S. names U20 Women's World Cup roster with 'upsetting' absences

Key Points:

• The U.S. U20 Women's National Team roster for the upcoming World Cup includes 21 players, with eight professionals from the NWSL and 13 from the U.S. college system, highlighting a developmental mix.
• Senior USWNT head coach Emma Hayes expressed concern over the U.S. lagging in youth player development compared to countries like Spain, emphasizing the importance of youth World Cups for preparing players for senior international competition.
• Notable absences from the U20 roster include San Diego Wave players such as midfielder Ascanio and forward Melanie Barcenas, with coaches encouraging those left out to focus on club performance to maintain national team potential.
• The U.S. opens the U20 World Cup group stage against Italy on September 9, followed by matches against Japan and New Zealand, aiming to improve on their best finish since winning the tournament in 2012.
• Despite scheduling challenges and club release issues, coaches acknowledge the value of youth international experience, with Hayes attending the tournament in Poland to scout talent ahead of future senior World Cups.