Canada’s women’s national soccer team is set to return to action next month for the 2026 She BelievesCup, where they will face Colombia, the United States, and Argentina. Head coach Casey Stoney has unveiled a 24-player roster ahead of the team’s first camp of the year, highlighting several surprising absences. Among those not selected are longtime key players Adriana Leon and Ashley Lawrence.
Veteran Players Omitted Despite Fitness and Availability
Both Leon and Lawrence, who have combined for 283 appearances with Canada, are healthy and available but will not compete during this upcoming international window. Their absence marks a notable shift in the squad’s composition, as the coaching staff focuses on integrating fresh talent and giving other players an opportunity to prove themselves at this friendly tournament.
Coach Stoney’s Strategy Focuses on Team Depth and Development
Casey Stoney explained her decision by emphasizing respect for the two veterans’ contributions while underscoring the strategic goals for this phase of team development.
“I fully respect everything they’ve done and will continue to do,”
Stoney told reporters.
“It’s not an easy decision to make. It’s not an easy phone call to make, both very disappointed to miss out, but understood the reasons and rationale. It’s about reacting, going away, getting to work and then making themselves available for the next window. It gives us an opportunity to look at other players. We want to make sure this squad is competitive.”
Implications for Canada’s National Team and Upcoming Matches
The absence of Leon and Lawrence signals a cautious approach by the Canadian team as it seeks to refresh its lineup while maintaining competitiveness. This strategy allows the coaching staff to evaluate new talents in a high-stakes environment against strong international opponents. How these changes will influence team dynamics and performance in the She BelievesCup remains to be seen, but the move shows Canada’s commitment to building a deeper, more versatile squad for the future.
