Japan Edges USWNT 1-0 in Rainy Seattle to Even Series

Japan defeated the United States Women's National Team 1-0 in a soggy match in Seattle on April 15. The result evens the three-game series between the two top World Cup contenders at 1-1. Maika Hamano scored the game-winner for Japan in the first half, while USWNT goalkeeper Phallon Tullis-Joyce made a couple of key saves early.

The match began under overcast skies with steady rain making the pitch slick. Japan capitalized on the conditions, testing Tullis-Joyce with a couple of early chances. The U.S. responded with a few looks of their own. A cross from Patterson found Sears, who narrowly missed with a header before her follow-up was blocked.

Japan struck first in the 34th minute. A well-constructed play led to Hamano firing a shot that beat Tullis-Joyce, who got a hand on it but could not stop the ball from finding the back of the net. The goal gave Japan a 1-0 lead heading into halftime.

The U.S. came out with more urgency in the second half. Emma Hayes made a trio of substitutions at halftime, bringing on Sophia Wilson, Trinity Rodman, and Gisele Thompson. The move injected life into the U.S. attack, which had struggled to create quality chances in the first 45 minutes.

Despite the changes, the U.S. could not equalize. They outshot Japan 12-7 in the second half but failed to convert. Japan, meanwhile, dropped deeper and defended well, keeping the U.S. from finding a breakthrough. The Americans had a golden opportunity in the 75th minute but could not capitalize.

Japan held on for the 1-0 win, improving to 1-0-1 in the series. The U.S. remains at 1-1-1. With one game remaining, the series is set for a decisive finale. Both teams will look to gain an edge ahead of the 2027 FIFA Women’s World Cup. The third and final match is scheduled for April 18.