Football: "Brave" Japan beat U.S. 2-1 to capture SheBelieves Cup
Yuka Momiki scored in the second minute and Toko Koga netted shortly after the break to secure Japan a 2-1 win against the United States in the four-nation SheBelieves Cup decider on Wednesday, lifting the trophy for the first time.
Nadeshiko Japan made it three wins from three under new manager Nils Nielsen as they avenged their 1-0 extra-time loss to the United States in the Paris Olympic women's football quarterfinals last August. It was their first win against the Americans in regular time since 2012.
Members of the Japan women's football team celebrate winning the SheBelieves Cup with a 2-1 victory over the United States at Snapdragon Stadium in San Diego, California, on Feb. 26, 2025. (Kyodo)
Nielsen lauded his "extremely brave" team for sticking to their aggressive, possession-based strategy and dictating the game against the Olympic champions.
"(The United States) is a team that has a very strong attitude when they come on the pitch and that's what we want to have as well, and today I think we matched them," the 53-year-old Dane said.
The two undefeated sides arrived at San Diego's Snapdragon Stadium following wins over both Australia and Colombia earlier in the round-robin tournament.
Members of the Japan women's football team celebrate their opening goal in SheBelieves Cup international women's football match against the United States at Snapdragon Stadium in San Diego, California, on Feb. 26, 2025. (Kyodo)
Japan took the lead when Momiki held off a challenge with her back to goal before netting on the turn from a tight angle.
The hosts equalized in the 14th minute when Ally Sentnor finished on the break with an assist from Catarina Macario.
After Japan earned a free kick within striking distance in the 49th minute, star playmaker Yui Hasegawa curled a dipping shot over the wall that U.S. keeper Jane Campbell could only parry away, enabling Koga to tap in the winner.
Japan defender Toko Koga (R) crosses the ball during a SheBelieves Cup international women's football match against the United States at Snapdragon Stadium in San Diego, California, on Feb. 26, 2025. (Kyodo)
Japan captain Saki Kumagai said the players had accepted Nielsen's challenge to play their own game, regardless of the opponent or the stakes.
"It was really positive that we were able to score while neutralizing the Americans' strengths with our transitions and pressing from the front," Kumagai said.
Related coverage:
Football: Momoko Tanikawa nets stunner as Nadeshiko Japan beat Colombia 4-1
Football: Nadeshiko Japan win SheBelieves Cup opener vs. Australia
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