The United States Women's National Team (USWNT) has announced plans to host Costa Rica in an international friendly on July 16 as their ‘Send-Off' match for the Paris Olympic Games. The decision to return to Audi Field, home of the Washington Spirit, for this pivotal match, reflects the team's commitment to preparing for the upcoming tournament in France.

A Historic Rivalry Renewed

The roster for the match will feature the 2024 U.S. women's national team Olympic squad, providing an opportunity for head coach Emma Hayes to fine-tune her lineup ahead of the marquee event. This match against Costa Rica will mark Hayes' fourth in charge, allowing her to imprint her tactical vision and strategic approach on the team before they embark on their Olympic campaign.

The upcoming friendly against Costa Rica adds another chapter to the longstanding rivalry between the two teams. With 17 previous encounters resulting in 17 victories for the USWNT, there is a rich history of success against Costa Rica. This match is a chance to continue that dominance and a valuable opportunity for the team to test themselves against familiar opposition before heading to the Olympic stage.

As the USWNT prepares for their Send-Off match, they are also gearing up for a series of friendlies in June against the Korean Republic. These matches will mark the beginning of Hayes' tenure in charge, providing crucial early tests for the team under her leadership. With the Costa Rica match serving as their final test before the Paris Games, the USWNT aims to solidify their preparations and build momentum heading into the tournament.

In the buildup to the Paris Olympics, head coach Hayes is focused on instilling a winning mentality and cohesive team dynamic within her squad. The match against Costa Rica offers a prime opportunity for players to showcase their skills and stake their claim for a spot on the Olympic roster. With fierce competition for places, every minute on the pitch is crucial as players vie to secure their position on the plane to France.

Moreover, facing Costa Rica presents strategic benefits for the USWNT, as the team aims to acclimatize to the style of play and tactical nuances of potential opponents they may encounter in the Olympic tournament. By testing themselves against strong opposition like Costa Rica, the USWNT can identify areas for improvement and refine their game plan to ensure they are fully prepared for the challenges.

The USWNT's decision to host Costa Rica in their Send-Off match demonstrates their commitment to thorough preparation for the Paris Olympic Games. With head coach Hayes at the helm, the team aims to utilize this match, along with previous friendlies and upcoming fixtures, to fine-tune their tactics, build team chemistry, and ensure they are primed for success on the international stage. As they embark on their journey to France, the USWNT will draw upon their rich history of excellence and unwavering determination to compete at the highest level.