5 reasons to get excited for 2027 women's World Cup in Brazil - USA Today

What the report says

USA Today previewed the 2027 women’s World Cup in Brazil, framing it as the next senior FIFA tournament after the close of the 2026 men’s World Cup. The tournament is scheduled to be staged in a country with deep soccer history, with matches expected at major venues including the Maracanã in Rio de Janeiro, Arena Corinthians in São Paulo and Estádio Beira-Rio in Porto Alegre. The opening game is listed for June 24, 2027.

A central storyline is Brazil’s role as host and the possible World Cup farewell for Marta, now 40. USA Today noted that she returned from international retirement and was included in Brazil’s June squad for matches against the United States, suggesting coach Arthur Elias may still be weighing her place in the team. Brazil enters with renewed optimism after reaching the 2024 Olympic final, where it lost 1-0 to the U.S.

The report also highlighted Spain’s title defense after winning the 2023 women’s World Cup and, according to the article, holding both senior World Cup titles following the men’s team’s July 19 win over Argentina. Spain’s squad includes Aitana Bonmatí, Alexia Putellas, Jenni Hermoso and Vicky López, while the U.S. women, led by Emma Hayes, are seeking a rebound from their round-of-16 exit in 2023 with key attackers Trinity Rodman, Sophia Wilson and Mallory Swanson back in the picture.

Qualification remains ongoing for the 32-team field. USA Today reported that 14 teams have secured places, with Africa and Concacaf still to determine qualifiers. The Concacaf W Championship will decide four direct spots, while WAFCON semifinalists will qualify from Africa. The World Cup draw is expected in Brazil in December, with final playoffs in February 2027.