SheBelieves Cup: Everything You Need to Know

Recognized as one of the most prestigious international women’s soccer tournaments globally, the SheBelieves Cup is set to return in 2026, with matches hosted across Nashville, Columbus, and New Jersey. The United States Women’s National Team (USWNT) will aim to reclaim the title in this highly anticipated competition, which has been a staple in the country since 2016.

What is the SheBelieves Cup?

The SheBelieves Cup is a women’s international soccer tournament hosted by the United States. Launched in 2016, it was created to provide a competitive platform during the winter months, mirroring the prestige of tournaments like the Algarve Cup and the Tournoi de France. Each year, the tournament features a dynamic lineup of women’s national teams from around the world.

The success of the SheBelieves Cup has inspired other nations to host similar tournaments, such as the Tournoi in 2020 and the Arnold Clark Cup in England, starting in 2022. You can find more information about international women’s soccer at FIFA’s official website.

Why is it Called SheBelieves?

The name “SheBelieves” is deeply rooted in the momentum generated by the USWNT’s triumphant 2015 Women’s World Cup victory. The tournament aims to inspire young women and girls to pursue their dreams, both on and off the field. As stated on the official SheBelieves Cup website, it’s a movement built on empowerment and self-belief.

“Inspired by the U.S. Women’s National Team, SheBelieves is a movement to encourage young women and girls to reach their dreams… taking a powerful message of empowerment and that of believing in yourself into communities across the nation.”

Who is Playing in 2026?

For the 2026 edition, the United States will welcome Argentina, Canada, and Colombia to compete. While previous editions have included European teams, the rise of other tournaments in Europe has shifted the focus to North and South American nations.

Tournament Format

The SheBelieves Cup follows a four-team round-robin format. Each team will play three matches, and the winner is determined by points (three for a win, one for a draw). Tiebreakers include goal differential, goals scored, head-to-head results, and fair play rankings. The format has remained consistent throughout the tournament’s history, with a minor adjustment in 2024 due to scheduling conflicts with the CONCACAF W Gold Cup.

SheBelieves Cup All-Time Winners

The SheBelieves Cup continues to be a vital platform for showcasing the talent and passion within women’s soccer, inspiring future generations to believe in their potential.