Seattle, April 15: The U.S. women’s national soccer team (USWNT) underwent a significant roster change between their first and second matches against Japan, revealing the stark differences in bench depth between the two teams.
At Lumen Field, a record-breaking crowd of 36,128 attended the match, where Japan secured a 1-0 victory, leveling the series at 1-1. Despite holding 63 percent possession, the USWNT could not convert their dominance into goals, as Japan capitalized on their technical precision and speed.
“It felt a bit like WSL versus NWSL tonight,” remarked USWNT head coach Emma Hayes, referencing the Women’s Super League in the UK and the National Women’s Soccer League in the U.S. This match marked Hayes’ second loss to Japan, out of four total losses during her tenure.
“Japan has 17 players in the WSL, all top-tier athletes. Our squad features a smaller number from the NWSL, which highlights the differences in player development across leagues,” she added. Specifically, 16 of the 25 players on Japan’s roster play in the WSL.
In the match, seven of Japan’s starting eleven were from WSL clubs, while the USWNT had only two Europe-based players: OL Lyonnes midfielder Lily Yohannes and Manchester United goalkeeper Phallon Tullis-Joyce. The rest of the starting lineup was comprised of NWSL players, who had just completed their fourth matchweek.
Maika Hamano’s goal in the 27th minute showcased the high-level quality of play. A defensive press from Japan forced USWNT forward Ally Sentnor into a turnover, leading to a rapid counterattack where four Japanese players touched the ball 15 times before Hamano scored.
Hayes described the goal as “poor” from a U.S. defensive standpoint, despite acknowledging Hamano’s exceptional talent.
Midfielder Claire Hutton, who captained the team, noted, “Our main focus was to build out play and remain calm under pressure. While we did well, our technical execution faltered at times.”
Hayes has consistently stated that player development takes precedence over immediate results, reiterating this sentiment after the match. She used culinary metaphors to illustrate the gap between her A and B teams. “It’s like being given a Michelin star recipe and trying to replicate it. We have players who are learning to apply the recipe, but it’s still a work in progress,” she explained.
Despite the loss, Hayes expressed satisfaction with the team’s improvements, stating, “We dominated many aspects without having the secret sauce.”
In a bid for experience, Hayes made several substitutions in the second half. Lindsey Heaps replaced Yohannes, while forwards Sophia Wilson and Trinity Rodman came on for Emma Sears and Olivia Moultrie. Gisele Thompson, enjoying a breakout year, swapped places with Lilly Reale, and Tierna Davidson returned to the pitch, replacing Emily Sonnett.
Davidson, who had been sidelined with an ACL injury, shared her excitement about returning. “Playing with this group is enjoyable, especially in a challenging game,” she said. She noted Japan’s meticulous attention to detail in their defensive strategy, which becomes even more pronounced when they take the lead.
With the series tied at one win each, the upcoming match in Commerce City, Colorado, takes on greater significance. Japan has only beaten the U.S. three times in 43 encounters, but two of those victories occurred in the last 14 months.
“Winner takes all” will be the prevailing sentiment as the teams prepare for their final meeting, with Hayes facing the challenge of balancing experience, developmental needs, and competitive urgency.
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