The prestigious SheBelieves Cup, one of the premier international women’s soccer tournaments, is set to return in 2026, with matches scheduled in Nashville, Columbus, and New Jersey. This tournament, hosted by the United States since its inception in 2016, provides an essential preparatory opportunity for the U.S. Women’s National Team (USWNT) as they aim to reclaim their position at the summit of women’s soccer while gearing up for the 2027 FIFA Women’s World Cup.
Joining the USWNT in the 2026 edition will be three formidable teams: Argentina, Canada, and Colombia. This year promises exciting matchups featuring teams from both North and South America, diverging from previous years that included more European contenders. The shift reflects the increasing prominence of Europe-based tournaments within the same international window, which has led to no European participation in the SheBelieves Cup since 2022.
The SheBelieves Cup was launched as a response to the USWNT’s outstanding success in the 2015 Women’s World Cup, where they captured their third title. The tournament name embodies a movement aimed at empowering young women and girls in sports and beyond, inspired by the team’s goal of reaching for their dreams. The campaign encourages self-belief and ambition among future generations through the example set by the USWNT, celebrating the values of dedication, teamwork, and perseverance.
The format of the SheBelieves Cup traditionally features a round-robin structure where each of the four teams competes in three matches. Points are awarded (three for a win, one for a draw), and teams are ranked based on points accrued, with tiebreakers including goal differential and goals scored. The only deviation from this format occurred in 2024 when the tournament adopted a mini-bracket due to scheduling conflicts with the inaugural CONCACAF W Gold Cup.
Historically, the USWNT has been a dominant force in this tournament, securing every title except for three occasions—2017, 2019, and the most recent in 2025. With an impressive track record and a roster brimming with talent, excitement surrounds their pursuit of yet another SheBelieves Cup victory in 2026.
As the tournament approaches, fans can look forward to thrilling matches and a celebration of women’s soccer, reinforcing the enduring commitment to inspire and empower young athletes across the globe. The SheBelieves Cup stands as a testament to the growth and popularity of women’s soccer, fostering a greater appreciation for the sport while encouraging future generations to follow in the footsteps of these outstanding athletes.