U.S. Women’s National Soccer Team Set for Friendly Against New Zealand in Kansas City

Upcoming Matches for the U.S. Women’s National Soccer Team

The U.S. women’s national soccer team is scheduled to take on New Zealand on October 29, 2023, at Kansas City’s CPKC Stadium, according to an announcement from the U.S. Soccer Federation made on Thursday. This match will wrap up a series of international friendlies during the October international window.

Matches Against Portugal

Prior to facing New Zealand, the USWNT will engage in two encounters with Portugal. The first match will occur on October 23 at Subaru Stadium in Chester, Pennsylvania, and it will coincide with a retirement ceremony honoring soccer icon Alex Morgan. The second match against Portugal is set for October 26 at Pratt & Whitney Stadium in East Hartford, Connecticut.

Special Events and Ceremonies

Additionally, the New Zealand matchup will not be just a standalone game, as it is planned to be part of a doubleheader alongside a match featuring the U.S. men’s deaf national team. Another highlight of the event will be a special pregame retirement ceremony for Alyssa Naeher, a former U.S. international and current goalkeeper for the Chicago Stars, as she celebrates her achievements in her home state.

Historical Context and Current Performance

New Zealand currently holds the 33rd spot in the FIFA world rankings. The last encounters between the Football Ferns and the U.S. national team took place in January 2023, wherein the U.S. secured decisive victories of 4-0 and 5-0. This upcoming match will mark the 22nd overall clash between the two nations, with New Zealand’s only win in the series dating back to their first meeting in 1987.

As the USWNT aims to enhance their performance, they have recorded an impressive 8 wins, 2 losses, and no draws in 2025 thus far. Under the guidance of head coach Emma Hayes, the focus remains on strategic preparations leading up to the 2027 FIFA Women’s World Cup scheduled to take place in Brazil.