The 17-year-old midfielder, Lily Yohannes, who plays for the U.S. women’s national team (USWNT), is returning to the site of her national debut in Minnesota, where she also scored her first goal nearly a year ago. The team will face China in a friendly match, marking the one-year anniversary of head coach Emma Hayes taking charge of the USWNT.

Yohannes has quickly emerged as a rising star in women’s soccer, showcasing impressive skills while playing for both the USWNT and Dutch club Ajax. Noted for her playmaking abilities, she remains a key prospect as the team prepares for the 2027-28 international cycle.

Hayes stated, “She’s 17. She’s still got a couple of years of professional experience ahead of her. The next two years of development will be crucial.” Despite not being a regular starter yet, Yohannes made headlines in Europe for her tactical awareness and vision.

In her journey, she opted to represent the U.S. after considering eligibility to play for both the U.S. and the Netherlands, emphasizing the strong familial ties she maintains with her birthplace.

“I extend my deepest gratitude to both the U.S. and Dutch Football Federations for their support as I made my decision about my international future,” shared Yohannes.

Hayes praised Yohannes for her noticeable growth over the past year, echoing sentiments shared by teammates regarding her maturity in play. As the national roster continues to evolve, Yohannes is anticipated to remain an integral part of the USWNT’s ambitions, especially with the next World Cup two years away.