In a thrilling SheBelieves Cup final on February 26, 2025, Japan’s women’s national soccer team secured a historic 2-1 win over the United States, marking their first-ever title in the tournament. The match, held at Snapdragon Stadium in San Diego, saw Japan outplay the USWNT, breaking their five-year championship streak.
The victory was a landmark moment for Japan, proving their growing dominance in women’s soccer and highlighting the increasing competitiveness of the sport on a global level.
Match Highlights: How Japan Secured the Win
First Half: A Strong Start for Japan
- 12th Minute: Yuka Momiki put Japan ahead early, capitalizing on a defensive mistake by the U.S. team to slot the ball past the goalkeeper.
- 35th Minute: The USA responded with an equalizer, as Ally Sentnor converted a brilliant assist from Catarina Macario, leveling the score at 1-1.
Second Half: The Decisive Moment
- 50th Minute: Japan struck again, with Toko Koga scoring the winning goal from a well-placed shot just inside the box.
- Despite several late attempts by the U.S., Japan’s defense held strong, denying the Americans any chance of forcing extra time.
A Tough Loss for the USWNT Under New Leadership
This match was a significant moment for U.S. head coach Emma Hayes, who suffered her first loss since taking charge in May 2024. The American squad featured many young players, as some of the team’s veteran stars were absent, leading to a lack of experience in critical moments.
Although the U.S. showed promising glimpses, Japan’s well-organized play and disciplined strategy ultimately secured their win.
Japan Makes History in the SheBelieves Cup
With this victory, Japan becomes the first non-U.S. or European team to win the SheBelieves Cup since its launch in 2016. This win highlights Japan’s continued rise as a powerhouse in international women’s soccer, setting the stage for future global tournaments.
For Team USA, this loss serves as a wake-up call and a chance to rebuild as they prepare for upcoming competitions, including the 2025 FIFA Women’s World Cup qualifiers.
What’s Next for Both Teams?
- For Japan: This win cements their place as a serious contender for future international tournaments, with their next target being the 2025 AFC Women’s Asian Cup.
- For the USA: The defeat exposes key weaknesses, especially in defensive coordination and attacking efficiency. Coach Emma Hayes will likely focus on integrating younger talent with experienced players to restore the team’s dominance.
Final Score: Japan 2-1 USA
Japan Wins Their First SheBelieves Cup Title