US U-17 Stars Shine as Global Coverage of Women’s Soccer Surges

A new wave of talent and visibility is defining women's soccer this week. At the youth international level, the U.S. U-17 women's national team gears up for the FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup, with rising stars from programs such as Boonton and North Carolina’s Tar Heels making the final squad. Meanwhile, Africa’s Flamingos are preparing for their own journey ahead of the 2025 World Cup with a training trip to Morocco, underlining the sport’s global momentum.

Media coverage is matching the sport’s growth: CBS and BBC both announced significant expansions in their women’s soccer offerings. CBS will kick off comprehensive UEFA Women’s Champions League coverage with a new studio show starting October 7, while the BBC has secured live broadcasting rights for the Champions League through 2030—marks of mainstream broadcasting’s commitment to the women's game. Additionally, Latin America sees a boost with Bancamiga investing in Adiffem's ongoing Libertadores campaign.

NCAA and club soccer continue to foster future stars, as Maryland freshman McKinley Heaven emerges as a key figure for her team, further proving the depth and promise in the women's game. The determination of Afghan women’s teams to gain recognition was also highlighted, underscoring the resilience powering women's soccer on and off the field.