GLENDALE, Arizona (Feb. 23, 2025) – The Japan Women’s National Team showcased their dominance at the 2025 SheBelieves Cup with an impressive 4-1 victory over Colombia, marking their second consecutive win and solidifying their position as strong contenders for the tournament title.
The match kicked off at State Farm Stadium and Japan wasted no time taking control. Within just seconds of the opening whistle, Momoko Tanikawa dribbled forward from the center circle, unleashing a powerful shot from 25 yards out to the top right corner. This astonishing goal just 18 seconds after kick-off has now earned the title for the fastest goal ever scored in SheBelieves Cup history.
Japan quickly doubled their lead with another highlight reel moment. Just eight minutes later, Tanikawa provided a booming corner kick, perfectly set up for Mina Tanaka, who leapt to meet it with a clinical header, directing it to the near left post. This goal marked Tanaka’s third of the tournament.
With Japan firmly on the front foot, they put sustained pressure on Colombia’s defense throughout the first half. The Japanese side nearly scored again, with Hikaru Kitagawa unleashing a hard-hit shot just before the break, which was parried away by the Colombian defense, denying Japan another goal.
Colombia managed to pull one back right before the half-time whistle, courtesy of Linda Caicedo. The Colombian side executed a lightning-fast counterattack following a regained possession near midfield. Daniela Montoya and Leicy Santos executed deft passes to spring Caicedo, who outpaced her marker to slot the ball just inside the right post from close range.
Despite the growing excitement, Japan was not to be deterred. They returned for the second half and quickly restored their multi-goal lead. A well-timed fast break saw Riko Ueki passing it to Tanaka, who then found Maika Hamano streaking down the right side. Hamano cut inside with sharp agility and drove the ball home from 12 yards out, putting Japan up 3-1.
Japan's dominance continued, culminating with Tanaka sealing the match with her second goal of the game from the penalty spot at the 80th minute. After being fouled by Colombian goalkeeper Luisa Agudelo during an aerial challenge, Tanaka confidently struck the ball low and hard past Agudelo, marking her fourth goal of the tournament and tying her with Mallory Swanson for the most goals ever scored in a single SheBelieves Cup competition.
The final score was Japan 4, Colombia 1, and with this outcome, Japan positioned themselves strongly for the upcoming final matchday of the SheBelieves Cup, heading to San Diego next where they will face the United States.
With six points and a staggering plus-seven goal difference, the Nadeshiko have set themselves up not just to compete but to dominate as the tournament progresses. They will culminate their participation with the decisive match against the US, scheduled for February 26 at Snapdragon Stadium.
Colombia, meanwhile, will aim to bounce back against Australia on the same day as they seek to build on the experience gained during this competitive outing.
This victory not only solidified Japan's potential as champions of the tournament but also underscored their readiness for their upcoming challenges, with the SheBelieves Cup offering significant preparation ground for future competitions, including potential World Cup qualifiers.