USWNT Edges Japan 2-1 Behind Lavelle's Goal and Assist, Heaps' Strike

The United States Women’s National Team defeated Japan 2-1 at PayPal Park in San Jose on Saturday, with Rose Lavelle and Lindsey Heaps combining for all three of the match’s goals. The win extended the U.S.’s unbeaten streak to 38 games and improved their record to 13-0-1 in their last 14 matches against top-10 FIFA opponents.

The U.S. struck first in the 9th minute when Lavelle, making her 100th career start for the USWNT, scored on a deflected volley from a Sam Coffey free kick. Lavelle then assisted on Heaps’ second-half goal, which extended the lead to 2-0 in the 43rd minute. Heaps notched her 40th international goal in the process.

Japan, ranked fifth in the world, responded with a goal from substitute Riko Ueki in the 61st minute. Ueki capitalized on a headed pass from Honoka Hayashi to cut the deficit to 2-1. It was the first goal conceded by the U.S. since a 3-1 win over Portugal in October.

The U.S. dominated early possession and created several chances. In the 15th minute, Hinata Miyazawa forced a save from Claudia Dickey with a low shot from the center of the box. The Americans had their best chance in the 21st minute when Sophia Wilson found space in the box, but her shot turned into a cross, and Alyssa Thompson’s follow-up went high and wide.

Japan came close to equalizing in the 40th minute when Manaka Matsukubo broke free on a long ball from Moeka Minami. Gisele Thompson made a crucial sliding tackle to recover the ball and prevent a dangerous chance.

The U.S. extended their lead just after halftime. Lavelle initiated a quick sequence from the left side, and after several touches, Heaps finished the move with a composed finish into the left side of the net.

Japan regrouped and found the equalizer in the 61st minute. Ueki’s header off a Hayashi pass beat Dickey and gave the Nadeshiko life. The U.S. tried to respond but couldn’t find the third goal. Yamashita made a key save on Wilson in the 67th minute, and Dickey denied Ueki twice in the second half on a header and a shot from the box.

The U.S. controlled the final 20 minutes, maintaining possession and limiting Japan’s opportunities. With four minutes of stoppage time, the match ended 2-1 in favor of the Americans.

The USWNT and Japan will meet again on Tuesday at Lumen Field in Seattle for the second match of their two-game friendly series.