Japan is one step away from crushing USWNT’s SheBelieves Cup streak | OneFootball

It has all boiled down to this for the 2025 SheBelieves Cup. The United States and Japan will duke it out in a showdown that could determine more than a title. On one side, the USWNT is seeking its sixth championship in a row, hoping to prove that Emma Hayes' project is on the right path. On the other side, a highly organized Japan only needs a draw to claim the tournament title for the first time.

The Snapdragon Stadium in San Diego will host a match that will be tense from the opening whistle.

The USWNT must win

If there is one thing for sure prior to kickoff, it is that the USWNT cannot afford to slip up. A tie will not suffice, and a defeat would be a huge letdown for a side that has dominated the competition in recent years.

Emma Hayes' side have ground out workmanlike performances so far, defeating Colombia and Australia, but without delivering a truly convincing one. The frequent changes have created opportunities for new players but also raised questions about the team's consistency and cohesion.

Against Japan, the USWNT will need much more than individual brilliance. This is a game where patience, organization, and decision-making will be key. A gung-ho attack with no control will risk exposing the team to deadly counter-attacks.

The recent head-to-head record against Japan has shown that there's no room for error. If the USWNT is going to maintain its dominance, it must show improvement and take charge of the game from minute one.

Japan arrives in top form and ready to shock

For anyone still doubting the strength of Japan, the performances at the SheBelieves Cup are all the proof required. This is a side that is playing effective and attractive football.

The 4-1 victory against Colombia highlighted the brilliance of Japan's attack, which blends speed, precision, and tactical discipline. Mina Tanaka, with four goals and three assists, has been the star of the tournament and the biggest threat to the US defense.

In addition, history has shown that Japan is aware of how to handle the USWNT. In their latest encounter, in the quarterfinals of the 2024 Olympics, Japan held off the American pressure until the final minutes of added time, when Trinity Rodman sealed the win with a goal.

Now the roles are reversed. Japan have the advantage of a draw, and that could turn out to be a decider. Nadeshiko will not need to open up from the start and can take advantage of the space that will be left behind by a US team that will have to push forward by necessity.

Emma Hayes and the balancing act between talent and tactics

Head coach Emma Hayes has made no secret of her blueprint for the USWNT, with squad rebirth prioritized without compromising competitiveness. Her starting lineups throughout the SheBelieves Cup have been those of a team in flux, with several players being experimented with at crucial junctures. Hayes rung the changes with the starting lineup for the game against Australia, highlighting her resolve to test variations and obtain the combinations correct ahead of the major international event in fall 2026.

The match also featured record times for the USWNT, including Claire Hutton's first appearance, Gisele Thompson's first start, and the rare occurrence of Alyssa and Gisele Thompson both starting together.

This Hayes strategy will be put to the test by a Japanese team famous for their precise passing and quick transitions. If the US coach adheres to her rotation policy, she must ensure that the team is strong enough to neutralize Japan's quick attack and also effective in creating attacking opportunities.