In a stunning upset, Japan defeated the U.S. Women’s National Team (USWNT) 2-1 in the SheBelieves Cup final at Snapdragon Stadium in San Diego. The loss ended head coach Emma Hayes’ unbeaten run, which began in May 2024, and halted the USWNT’s 17-match undefeated streak, a run that included their gold medal triumph at the 2024 Paris Olympics.
Japan became only the third nation in the past decade to win the SheBelieves Cup aside from the dominant USWNT. The match got off to a shocking start when Japanese forward Yuka Momiki capitalized on a defensive mistake, scoring just two minutes into the game. However, in the 35th minute, rising USWNT star Ally Sentnor showcased her talent, weaving through Japan’s defense to equalize. The deadlock was broken in the second half when Aoba Fujino powered the ball into the net, securing Japan’s first-ever SheBelieves Cup title.
Head coach Emma Hayes took the defeat in stride, stating, “We’re gutted, but we’ll learn from this game. Japan was a tough opponent, and this gives us a lot to reflect on moving forward.” Despite the disappointment, the tournament provided valuable experience for emerging talents like Sentnor, as the USWNT continues blending veterans with new faces in preparation for the 2027 World Cup.
The loss has sparked discussions about tactical adjustments, with analysts pointing to defensive weaknesses and midfield control as key areas requiring improvement. The USWNT will have a chance to regroup in upcoming friendly matches against Brazil in April, as they continue fine-tuning their squad ahead of major international competitions.
Meanwhile, Japan’s victory marks a significant milestone in their national team’s history, underscoring the increasing global competitiveness in women’s soccer. Their disciplined and strategic play throughout the tournament signals a shift in the sport’s landscape, proving that the traditional powerhouses face stronger challengers than ever before.
As the USWNT reflects on this rare defeat, their focus now shifts to learning from their mistakes and strengthening the squad. Reclaiming the top spot in women’s soccer will require addressing the weaknesses exposed in the SheBelieves Cup, while continuing to develop both seasoned veterans and emerging stars for the challenges ahead.