BY EMMANUEL OGBONNA
Defender Naomi Girma is poised for a meaningful return to familiar ground as she prepares to represent the United States women’s national soccer team in Northern California later this month, marking her first appearance in the region since before the 2023 Women’s World Cup.
Head coach Emma Hayes confirmed Wednesday that Girma will be included in the squad for an upcoming three-match series against Japan women’s national football team, beginning April 11 at PayPal Park in San Jose. The match represents a homecoming for Girma, who was born in San Jose and developed her game nearby at Stanford University.
Her last appearance for the national team in the Bay Area came in a 2-0 victory over Wales women’s national football team ahead of the 2023 World Cup, a moment she recalls as deeply personal. Playing in front of family, friends, and longtime supporters has consistently carried special significance throughout her career.
Girma described the experience of competing at home as both surreal and rewarding, reflecting on the journey from local youth soccer to the international stage. The opportunity to reconnect with the community that supported her early development adds another emotional layer to the upcoming fixture.
The roster also signals the return of several key players. Forward Sophia Wilson, formerly known as Sophia Smith, has been named to the national team for the first time in over a year following maternity leave. Wilson, who plays for the Portland Thorns, welcomed her first child last year and has since worked her way back into match fitness.
Defender Tierna Davidson also returns after recovering from a torn ACL that sidelined her last season, adding experience and depth to the defensive unit.
The upcoming matches against Japan are expected to provide a significant test for the United States. Japan recently claimed the continental title in Asia and is widely regarded as one of the most disciplined and tactically organized teams in the world. Girma noted that Japan’s balance between defensive structure and attacking fluidity makes them a valuable benchmark for assessing the team’s progress.
At the club level, Girma continues to build momentum in Europe with Chelsea Women, having joined the English side in early 2025 in a high-profile transfer from the San Diego Wave FC. She recently scored her first goal in the Women’s Super League during a 4-3 victory over Aston Villa Women, helping lift Chelsea into second place behind Manchester City Women in the standings.
Since making her international debut in 2022, Girma has quickly become a cornerstone of the U.S. defense, earning more than 50 caps and playing a pivotal role in the team’s gold medal triumph at the Paris Olympics.
Wilson’s return further strengthens the attacking options for Hayes. In 58 international appearances, she has scored 24 goals, including three during the Olympic tournament, underscoring her importance to the team’s offensive strategy.
Following the opening match in San Jose, the series against Japan will continue on April 14 at Lumen Field in Seattle before concluding April 17 at Dick’s Sporting Goods Park in Commerce City.
The squad reflects a blend of established veterans and emerging talent across all positions, with players representing top clubs in both the National Women’s Soccer League and leading European competitions. The lineup signals Hayes’ continued effort to balance experience with development as the team builds toward future international tournaments.
For Girma, however, the spotlight will carry a personal dimension. Stepping onto the field in San Jose once again, she will not only represent her country but also revisit the place where her journey began—this time as one of the game’s most accomplished defenders on the global stage.
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