【Match Report】Nadeshiko Japan Secure First Clean-Sheet Victory Over USA in 14 Years with First-Half Strike from Hamano Maika

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16 April 2026

【Match Report】Nadeshiko Japan Secure First Clean-Sheet Victory Over USA in 14 Years with First-Half Strike from Hamano Maika

The second match against the United States, played after just two days’ rest, kicked off in cold rain. Japan made nine changes from the opening fixture and, as in the first match, lined up in a 4-3-3 formation. By pushing their defensive line high without fearing the pace of the American attack and keeping spaces compact, Japan successfully limited the opposition’s passing options, allowing the game to unfold on their terms.

Their high press from the front proved effective, and in the 10th minute, pressure applied by HAMANO Maika (Tottenham Hotspur) forced a loose ball, which TANAKA Mina (Utah Royals) quickly recovered before unleashing a shot from distance.

The United States responded by playing long balls in behind Japan’s defensive line to threaten goal via the most direct route. However, having addressed the issue from the first match—where they failed to close down effectively and conceded—the Japanese defence stood firm, putting their bodies on the line to block these attempts.

Japan’s momentum paid off in the 27th minute when they finally broke the deadlock, once again originating from their pressing. After winning possession in midfield, the ball was worked through Tanaka, NAGANO Fuka (Liverpool FC), and HIJIKATA Maya (Aston Villa), eventually finding Hamano. She evaded her marker with her right foot before striking with her left, sending the ball into the back of the net.

The second half saw a fast-paced end-to-end contest, with both sides transitioning rapidly between attack and defence. As the United States gradually gained control, Japan eased off their intense pressing and adopted a more composed approach. With the tight schedule in mind, Japan made successive substitutions, maintaining a resilient defensive display while still seeking opportunities to advance the ball forward. Substitute players such as MATSUKUBO Manaka (North Carolina Courage) and TANIKAWA Momoko (Bayern Munich) also managed to create shooting opportunities.

The United States, deploying many of their rested first-match starters, pushed hard for an equaliser. In response, Japan switched to a five-back system in the final ten minutes. Every player, from midfield to the front line, remained fully committed, with multiple players reacting sharply to each attacking threat. Japan held on to their one-goal lead to secure victory, levelling the series at one win apiece.

Japan will now travel from Seattle to Denver and, after another two-day turnaround, face the United States in the decisive third match of the tour.

Coach and Players' Comments

KANO Michihisa, Caretaker Head Coach of Nadeshiko Japan
We had a short time to prepare after the first match, but we were able to put our plans into practice. I would like to commend the players for their efforts. Towards the end, we slightly altered our shape while continuing to apply pressure, but the players adapted well to the opposition’s movements and the match situation. They effectively limited the opponent’s intentions and passing outlets, and we managed to keep a clean sheet. The essence of football is to score more goals than the opposition and win. Achieving victory today is very significant. Now that both sides have one win each, we head into the third match on equal footing. As long as we represent Japan and wear this emblem, winning is our absolute mission. We will once again share what is required to win and prepare for the third match.

GK ＃23 OKUMA Akane (INAC Kobe Leonessa)
Personally, I was excited to face the United States for the first time, though I was nervous at the start. Making an early save in the first half gave me confidence, and I was able to play with the belief that I could perform at this level, which contributed to the win. The United States applied strong pressure towards the end, but by maintaining communication with the defensive line and staying mindful of the space in behind, we were able to keep a clean sheet through a collective effort. There is only one goalkeeping position. I will take confidence from today’s performance and, regardless of age, aim to compete for a regular spot and push past Yamashita (Ayaka) and Hirao (Chika).

MF ＃17 HAMANO Maika (Tottenham Hotspur/England)
For the goal, I initially considered shooting with my right foot, but I was aware of the defender closing in. In the first match, I struggled to judge their reach, but this time I intended to shift the defender before taking the shot. I managed to cut inside, caught a glimpse of the goalkeeper’s position, and placed the ball into the near post. Opportunities to play three matches against the United States are rare, and with the series now at one win each, they will naturally come all out to win the third match. Being part of such a contest is truly special. Ideally, I want to contribute with goals when I’m on the pitch, but as long as the team wins, I will keep running and give everything. I want to keep thinking about what I can do to help the team succeed and reflect that in my performance.