Why is Naomi Girma not playing for USWNT vs. Spain today?

Naomi Girma was initially named to the 26-player roster for a pair of friendlies against Spain, but had to withdraw after suffering an injury in training with Chelsea. The USWNT could have used Girma's ability to organize the back line in the first of the two matches against Spain, a 2-0 defeat on Saturday, Oct. 10 at Audi Field . Girma has been instrumental for the USWNT since making her international breakthrough in April 2022. The defender quickly became a fixture on the back line due to her intelligent positioning, distribution and ability to read the game.