USWNT vs Japan Preview: What to Expect in the Three-Match Series

How to Watch the USWNT vs Japan Series

Soccer fans won’t want to miss this highly anticipated USWNT vs Japan showdown. The opening match kicks off on Saturday, April 11, at 5:30 p.m. ET from PayPal Park in San Jose, California. Viewers can tune in on TNT or truTV, or stream the game live via HBO Max.

USWNT’s April Matchups vs Japan

• Saturday, April 11 – San Jose, Calif. (PayPal Park) | 5:30 p.m. ET
• Tuesday, April 14 – Seattle, Wash. (Lumen Field) | 10 p.m. ET
• Friday, April 17 – Commerce City, Colo. (Dick’s Sporting Goods Park) | 9 p.m. ET

Key Storylines in the USWNT vs Japan Series

Triple Espresso Returns to the Fold

After missing several camps, attacker Sophia Wilson rejoins the USWNT front line following the birth of her daughter, Gigi. Wilson partners with Trinity Rodman to reignite the potent “triple espresso” attack that powered the Stars and Stripes to Olympic gold in 2024. Mallory Swanson remains on maternity leave, making this series a critical proving ground for Wilson and Rodman.

Tierna Davidson’s Comeback

Center back Tierna Davidson makes her first appearance since suffering an ACL injury in 2025. Her return bolsters USWNT’s back line depth and adds experience against a tactically sharp Japanese side.

Japan’s Momentum and Coaching Change

Fifth-ranked Japan enters this international window fresh off an emphatic 2026 AFC Women’s Asian Cup triumph, outscoring opponents 29-1. Despite parting ways with coach Nils Nielsen in early April, the Nadeshiko maintain their roster talent under interim manager Michihisa Kano, former U20 women’s coach who led Japan to a runner-up finish at the 2024 FIFA U20 Women’s World Cup.

Historical Context: USWNT vs Japan Rivalry

Since their first meeting in July 1986, the USWNT and Japan have met 42 times, with the United States holding a commanding 32-2-8 record. This series represents the next chapter in one of women’s soccer’s most enduring rivalries, offering both teams a high-stakes test ahead of World Cup qualifiers later this year.

Series Outlook and Prediction

With both sides coming off major titles—the USWNT from the 2026 SheBelieves Cup and Japan from the Asian Cup—expect a finely balanced affair. The opening match should be cagey as each team settles into familiar patterns. Our prediction: a hard-fought 1-1 draw, setting the stage for an electrifying remainder of the three-game slate.