Japan secured its first championship at the SheBelieves Cup by defeating the United States 2-1 on February 27, 2025, at Snapdragon Stadium, San Diego. This victory not only heralds Japan's first title but also breaks the American team's five-year winning streak.
Early on, Japan seized the momentum with Yuka Momiki scoring just two minutes after kickoff, catching the U.S. defense off guard after a miscommunication between U.S. keeper Jane Campbell and defender Emily Sonnett. Moments later, the U.S. struck back thanks to Ally Sentnor, who scored the equalizer in the 14th minute, assisted by Catarina Macario.
Despite the early fireworks, it was the second half where Japan cemented its victory. Toko Koga, who came off the bench shortly after halftime, found the net by capitalizing on Campbell's parry from Yui Hasegawa's free kick. With this goal, Japan reclaimed the lead and never looked back. Coach Emma Hayes of the U.S. acknowledged Japan's superior performance, stating, "They were at a higher level to us throughout the whole evening." This defeat marked Hayes’ first loss since taking the helm of the U.S. team, now standing at 15 wins, one loss, and two draws under her leadership.
Hayes' squad came to the final without some key players: Trinity Rodman, Sophia Smith, and Mallory Swanson were absent due to injury and personal commitments. This absence raised expectations for the younger talents on the team, like Sentnor, who has been establishing her place with impressive performances, having scored her second goal for the national team during this tournament.
The U.S. team had won five consecutive SheBelieves Cups leading up to this year's tournament. Hayes had aimed to focus on player development rather than just winning, emphasizing the importance of gaining experience against top-tier competition. She noted, "I always go back to what our objectives were... to deepen our playing pool with opportunities against top opponents,” affirming this loss as part of the long-term vision for the team.
Japan’s performance throughout the tournament has reignited the rivalry with the U.S., especially after recent matches where Japan fell to the U.S. at the 2024 Olympics and the SheBelieves semifinals. After Wednesday's match, the tension brewing between these two teams may signal the return of fierce competition as they prepare for upcoming tournaments.
Despite the U.S. team’s loss, Coach Hayes reflected positively on the experience, using the game as a teaching moment for the rookies. She acknowledged the pressure the game presented, helping to prepare the next generation for high-stakes encounters. "It’s OK to be disappointed... It’s really important to learn from moments like this," Hayes stated, highlighting the match's instructional value.
Moving forward, questions remain about the U.S. goalkeeper situation after the retirement of Alyssa Naeher. Jane Campbell started against Japan but faced criticism for her performance during the match, particularly relating to her handling of Japan's goals. The position remains wide open as the U.S. teams look to find their next standout keeper.
Overall, Japan's victory serves not only as redemption after their previous disappointing outings against the U.S. but also heralds their return to form as serious contenders on the global stage. Their tactical efficiency and cohesive gameplay highlighted the team’s potential for future success, making this win particularly satisfying for the Nadeshiko.
The tournament also served as preparation for the U.S. as they look to regroup and return stronger, regaining the confidence and clarity they need as they approach the next opportunity on the calendar. Both teams can take valuable lessons from this high-profile competition, signaling exciting developments as they turn their focus toward the future.