USWNT falls to Japan for first loss of Hayes-era

02/27/2025 07:08 AM

The U.S. women’s national team will not repeat as SheBelieves Cup winners.

Emma Hayes’ squad suffered a 2-1 defeat to Japan on Wednesday night, falling just short of winning the annual competition. The result marked the first loss since Hayes took over as head coach last spring.

A fast start for Japan saw Yuka Momiki propel the visitors in front 1-0 after only two minutes. USWNT goalkeeper Jane Campbell collided with one of her defenders, allowing Momiki to tap into an empty net.

However, Ally Sentnor delivered her second goal of the tournament, equalizing for the USWNT in the 14th minute. Catarina Macario won possession for the Americans before playing Sentnor into the Japan box.

Sentnor drilled a right-footed shot into the bottom-right corner for a 1-1 equalizer.

Japan though would regain its lead early in the second half and ride that to a memorable road victory. Toko Koga’s 50th minute rebound finish off an original save from Campbell made it 2-1 to the Japanese, a score line that the Americans would not fight back to tie.

Japan goalkeeper Ayaka Yamashita finished the match with four saves.

Hayes’ record now sits at 15-1-2 in her opening 18 matches as USWNT head coach.

The USWNT will return to action this April against Brazil in California.