USWNT defeats Japan 3-0 in series finale behind Girma, Wesley

The United States Women's National Soccer Team closed out its friendly series against Japan with a dominant 3-0 victory at Commerce City in Colorado. Naomi Girma and Kennedy Wesley each found the back of the net as the USWNT outclassed their World Cup rivals in a cold, snowy environment. The result gave the Americans a 2-1 series edge and a statement win ahead of the 2027 FIFA Women’s World Cup in Brazil.

Emma Hayes fielded one of the strongest lineups of the series, signaling the team’s intent to finish with a win. The first 25 minutes were a struggle for both sides as they adjusted to the slick, frozen pitch. Sophia Wilson had the best chance of the early going with a point-blank shot that Japan’s goalkeeper saved brilliantly. Girma followed with a header that went just over the bar, but the U.S. would not be denied for long.

The turning point came in the final 25 minutes of the first half. USWNT began to apply relentless pressure, with Wilson, Trinity Rodman, and Rose Lavelle combining well to break down Japan’s defense. The momentum carried over into the second half, where the U.S. wasted no time. On the 46th minute, Lavelle delivered a corner to the far post where Wesley headed it back across goal for Girma to finish. The goal gave the U.S. a 1-0 lead and marked Girma’s second goal of the series.

Just 10 minutes later, the U.S. doubled its advantage. Kennedy Wesley intercepted a pass in midfield and quickly set up Heaps, who played the ball to Rodman. Rodman laid it off to Lavelle, who calmly slotted it past the keeper for her first goal of the series. Wesley then added her name to the scoresheet in the 63rd minute with her first international goal, heading in another corner from Jaedyn Shaw.

The U.S. kept the pressure on throughout the second half, even with a three-goal lead. Japan struggled to find rhythm against the high press and quick transitions of the American side. USWNT’s relentless play and clinical finishing allowed them to control the match from the moment they took the lead.

The win improves the U.S.’s record against Japan to 13-6-3 in all-time meetings. With key players like Girma (2 goals), Wesley (1 goal, 2 assists), and Lavelle (1 goal, 1 assist) stepping up, the USWNT continues to build a strong foundation for the future. The team now turns its attention to the next set of friendlies in May as they continue preparations for the World Cup.