The U.S. women’s national team is gearing up for a crucial three-game series against Japan, marking a pivotal moment in their preparation for the World Cup qualifiers in November. This three-match series not only serves as an important challenge but also follows the USWNT’s recent triumph at the 2026 SheBelieves Cup, celebrated last month.
Head coach Emma Hayes has named a squad of 26 players, highlighting the return of key talents like Sophia Wilson and Tierna Davidson, both vital components of the winning team from the 2024 Olympics.
The USWNT boasts a historical edge over Japan with a record of 32 wins, 2 losses, and 8 draws from 42 encounters since their first match-up in July 1986.
With Japan coming off their successful 2026 AFC Women’s Asian Cup victory, the atmosphere is charged as both teams look to assert their dominance.
Match Details:
- Date: Saturday, April 11
- Time: 5:30 p.m. ET
- Location: PayPal Park, San Jose, California
- Broadcast: TNT, truTV
- Streaming: HBO Max
Upcoming Matches:
- April 14: USWNT vs Japan, Seattle, WA (Lumen Field) - 10 p.m. ET
- April 17: USWNT vs Japan, Commerce City, CO (Dick’s Sporting Goods Park) - 9 p.m. ET
Notable Updates:
- Sophia Wilson rejoins the squad after maternity leave, making an exciting comeback.
- Mallory Swanson will not participate as she continues her recovery after childbirth.
- Tierna Davidson returns after recovering from an ACL injury sustained in 2025.
- Japan’s former coach, Nils Nielsen, has parted ways with the team, replaced by Michihisa Kano, the former U20 coach, just prior to this series.
Expect a match filled with intensity and anticipation, with both teams looking to make a statement.
