Returning and domestically based players
Morocco and Zambia each have eight players from the 2025 tournament, the highest totals. Nine squads are entirely domestically based: Chile, China, DPR Korea, Ghana, Japan, Kenya, Nigeria, Spain and the United States. Samoa, by contrast, have one player attached to a Samoan club, Vaivase-Tai FC's Foaiina Rachael Malae. Ghana's Belinda Kpentey will be the youngest participant, aged 14 years and 54 days at her opening match. Four players were born in 2012, three from Ghana and one from Samoa.
Records remain possibilities
Mexico's Citali Reyes has ten tournament appearances across two editions and needs three more to move beyond the current record of 12. Last year's Golden Boot and Golden Ball winner Yu Jong-hyang scored eight goals and needs another four to pass Deyna Castellanos's career total of 11. Japan coach Sadayoshi Shirai could exceed the coaching appearance record by reaching a medal match. FIFA also lists Nigeria goalkeeper Jane Ijirigho at 1.92 metres and Kenya defender Pauline Namisi at 1.45 metres. Selection itself adds neither appearances nor goals. The accompanying image shows the 2025 final, not a champion already decided for 2026.