USWNT x Japan

In a thrilling start to the 2024 SheBelieves Cup, the U.S. Women’s National Team staged a comeback victory against Japan, triumphing 2-1 in front of a record-breaking crowd of 50,644 at Mercedes-Benz Stadium. Despite conceding an early goal just 31 seconds into the match, the USWNT showcased resilience and dominance throughout the game.

Japan took the lead with a quick strike from Kiko Seike, who capitalized on a long ball and found the net with a shot that ricocheted off the left post. However, the U.S. remained composed and launched numerous attacks, out-shooting Japan 18-6.

The equalizer came in the 36th minute, as midfielder Sam Coffey intercepted the ball in Japan's defensive third and set up Jaedyn Shaw for a powerful strike from outside the box.

In the second half, the USWNT continued to press forward and eventually took the lead in the 77th minute. Midfielder Lindsey Horan converted a penalty kick after Sophia Smith was fouled inside the box, securing the victory for the United States.

Despite losing central defender Naomi Girma to injury early in the game, the U.S. defense held firm, with Abby Dahlkemper and Tierna Davidson delivering solid performances.

[Photography by Rachel Pearce]