Japan Stuns USWNT to Claim First SheBelieves Cup Title

Japan emerged victorious in the 2025 SheBelieves Cup, defeating the United States Women’s National Team (USWNT) 2-1 in the tournament finale at Snapdragon Stadium in San Diego. The win marked Japan’s first SheBelieves Cup title and ended the USWNT’s bid for a record-extending sixth consecutive championship. More significantly, it also handed Emma Hayes her first loss since taking over as head coach of the United States in June 2024.

A Statement Win for Japan

The match served as a showcase of Japan’s technical prowess, disciplined organization, and superior team chemistry. The Nadeshiko, known for their intricate passing and fluid play, were tactically sharper and more cohesive than an American side that featured a mix of experienced players and younger prospects. Japan’s victory was a well-earned milestone, especially considering their loss to the US in the quarterfinals of the 2024 Paris Olympics.

From the opening whistle, Japan asserted their dominance. It took just two minutes for Yuka Momiki to capitalize on a defensive mishap between US defender Emily Sonnett and goalkeeper Jane Campbell, slotting the ball into an open net. This early lead set the tone for the game, with Japan dictating play and keeping the USWNT on the back foot.

Match Timeline and Key Moments

First Half

• 2' – Goal Japan (Momiki): Japan wasted no time taking control, with Yui Hasegawa threading a precise pass through the US defense. A miscommunication between Campbell and Sonnett left the goal exposed, allowing Momiki to capitalize with an easy finish.
• 7' – Japan’s dominance continues: The early goal wasn’t a fluke. Japan’s crisp passing and movement kept the US under pressure, with their midfield dictating the tempo.
• 12' – First USWNT shot on goal: Lynn Heaps forced a save from Japan’s goalkeeper Ayaka Yamashita, marking the US’s first real attempt.
• 14' – Goal USA (Sentnor): In response, the US found the equalizer through Ally Sentnor, who finished a well-constructed move started by Lily Yohannes and assisted by Catarina Macario. Sentnor’s precise shot into the right corner brought the score level at 1-1.
• 25' – Japan pushes forward: Japan continued to probe the US defense, with Aoba Fujino and Maika Hamano creating chances. A promising shot from Hamano forced Campbell into a save.
• 45' +2 – USWNT’s final first-half chance: Macario had a late opportunity but failed to beat Yamashita. The first half ended with both teams tied at 1-1, though Japan looked the more composed side.

Second Half

• 49' – Goal Japan (Koga): Japan regained the lead early in the second half. A free kick from Hasegawa forced Campbell into a diving save, but the rebound fell to 19-year-old defender Toko Koga, who slotted it into the bottom corner, putting Japan up 2-1.
• 50' – USWNT counterattack: Almost immediately, Ryan surged down the right flank and sent in a cross, but no US player was there to finish.
• 58' – USWNT substitutions: Hayes made three changes, bringing on Albert, A. Thompson, and Biyendolo to replace Yohannes, Macario, and Ryan, attempting to inject energy into the attack.
• 62' – Close call for the USWNT: Heaps connected with a cross, but her header sailed just over the bar.
• 77' – Japan’s defensive shape holds firm: With time running out, the US struggled to break down Japan’s disciplined defense. Coffey and Nighswonger were stifled as Japan maintained their structure.
• 80' – USWNT’s best second-half chance: Davidson set up Shaw for a strike from distance, but it was comfortably saved by Yamashita.
• 88' – Late urgency from the US: Davidson forced a strong save from Yamashita, leading to a corner that the US failed to capitalize on.
• 90' +3 – Last-gasp free kick: Heaps won a free kick near goal, with Campbell joining the attack. However, Shaw’s delivery failed to create a clear chance, and Japan held on.
• FT: Japan 2-1 USA: The final whistle confirmed Japan’s first SheBelieves Cup title, as they closed out the tournament with a perfect record.

Tactical Lessons for the USWNT

While the loss was disappointing for the US, Hayes emphasized the long-term objectives of her tenure. Rather than prioritizing immediate tournament wins, she has used competitions like the SheBelieves Cup to experiment with lineups and build squad depth ahead of the 2027 FIFA Women’s World Cup. Hayes acknowledged Japan’s superior chemistry and emphasized the importance of giving younger players meaningful international experience.

“They were a higher level to us throughout the whole evening,” Hayes admitted post-match. “We didn’t put out our most experienced team. We put out a team we’re hoping to develop, and our goals go beyond just the SheBelieves Cup.”

The USWNT was notably missing key attacking players Mallory Swanson, Trinity Rodman, and Sophia Smith, who played crucial roles in the team’s gold medal run at the 2024 Olympics. Their absence highlighted the need for more depth and consistency in the attack, areas Hayes will undoubtedly focus on in the coming months.

Japan’s Tactical Edge

Japan’s success in the tournament was no fluke. Their ability to control the pace of play, coupled with a well-structured defensive setup, allowed them to neutralize the USWNT’s attacking threats. Their superior goal difference meant they needed only a draw to secure the title, but they approached the final with the intent to win outright.

Hasegawa’s playmaking ability was instrumental, as she repeatedly found pockets of space and delivered dangerous balls into the attacking third. The defensive unit, anchored by Koga, remained resolute, frustrating the US forwards and limiting their quality chances on goal. Japan’s victory also highlighted their ability to capitalize on set-piece opportunities, a critical aspect of modern football.

Looking Ahead

For the USWNT, this loss serves as both a wake-up call and an opportunity for growth. Hayes’ tenure is still in its early stages, and her focus on integrating younger players suggests that setbacks like this will be part of the learning curve. The SheBelieves Cup provided a valuable testing ground, but tougher challenges lie ahead as the team continues its journey toward the next Women’s World Cup.

Meanwhile, Japan’s triumph solidifies their status as a rising force in international women’s soccer. Their ability to outplay and outmaneuver the reigning Olympic champions speaks volumes about their potential heading into future competitions. As they continue to refine their style and develop their squad, Japan could emerge as a serious contender on the global stage.

Final Standings

The USWNT finished second in the tournament with six points from three matches, while Japan, with an unbeaten record, claimed the top spot. Colombia secured third place with a 2-1 victory over Australia, who finished winless at the bottom of the standings.

Conclusion

Japan’s 2-1 victory over the USWNT in the SheBelieves Cup final was a statement of intent. Their disciplined, technical, and tactically astute performance underscored their growth as a team and exposed areas where the USWNT still needs improvement. For Hayes and her squad, this defeat should serve as motivation to refine their game and build a team capable of reclaiming dominance on the world stage. The road to the 2027 Women’s World Cup is long, and this setback may prove to be an important stepping stone in their development.