A goal from Maika Hamano secured a 1-0 win for Japan over a significantly altered USA team in Seattle, marking the second match in a three-game friendly series.
USA head coach Emma Hayes made sweeping changes to her lineup, replacing all players from the squad that triumphed 2-1 over Japan on Sunday. Naomi Girma remained on the bench as an unused substitute, while Alyssa Thompson was excluded from the matchday roster, allowing less experienced players to gain valuable playing time.
Prior to this match, the USWNT was riding a remarkable streak of 10 consecutive victories, but that run came to an end when Chelsea’s Maika Hamano, currently on loan at Tottenham Hotspur, scored in the 27th minute.
Hamano initiated the play by regaining possession in midfield, and after receiving a pass from Maya Hijikata on the right side of the penalty area, she skillfully cut inside onto her left foot and unleashed a shot into the top right corner. Manchester United goalkeeper Phallon Tullis-Joyce managed only to graze the ball with her fingertips.
The 21-year-old forward has now scored in each of her last four starts for Japan, including the decisive goal in the Asian Cup final against Australia in March.
The two teams are set to face each other again on Friday for the final match of this international window, which will take place in Commerce City, Colorado.
Bildquelle: Bildquelle: Marcel Strauß auf Unsplash
