The U.S. Women’s National Team kicks off a three-game friendly series against Japan on Saturday in San Jose, California. With the 2025 World Cup qualifiers on the horizon, head coach Emma Hayes is using the matches to fine-tune tactics and evaluate depth. Japan enters the series fresh off winning the AFC Women’s Asia Cup, making for a high-level challenge for the Americans.
Hayes has already gained a solid understanding of her squad through the SheBelieves Cup, where the U.S. went 3-0-0 with three clean sheets. The performances against Argentina, Colombia, and Canada gave her a clearer picture of how players fit into her system. Now, the focus shifts to how different combinations perform under pressure from a top-tier opponent.
The backline will be a key area of interest. Naomi Girma started two of the SheBelieves matches alongside Emily Sonnett, but Tierna Davidson has returned and could re-enter the starting XI. Goalkeeper decisions will also be under the microscope as Phallon Tullis-Joyce and Claudia Dickey compete for minutes.
Hayes is also looking to evaluate younger players such as Lily Yohannes, Claire Hutton, and Jameese Joseph. Their integration into the team could reshape the midfield and forward lines. Rose Lavelle started two of the SheBelieves matches, while Lindsey Heaps started one and came off the bench in another, but the two have not appeared together.
Up front, the return of Sophia Wilson gives the U.S. a potent attacking duo with Trinity Rodman. Michelle Cooper and Emma Sears will also look to make an impact, with the window serving as a chance to prove themselves for future call-ups.
Japan’s victory at the Women’s Asia Cup shows they are a team on the rise and a legitimate threat. The U.S. will need to maintain the defensive discipline that led to three shutouts in the SheBelieves Cup while also finding ways to break down a Japanese side that is known for its organization.
The U.S. and Japan will meet again next week, with the third and final match of the series to be played in a different location.
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