【Match Report】Nadeshiko Japan Fall 0–3 in Final USA Tour Fixture but Take Positives into Next Step

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19 April 2026

【Match Report】Nadeshiko Japan Fall 0–3 in Final USA Tour Fixture but Take Positives into Next Step

After a bright morning, snowfall transformed the surroundings into a blanket of white within a matter of hours. Although the snow had stopped, the third match against the USA Women’s National Team kicked off in biting cold conditions.

In this decisive clash, with the series level at one win apiece, Japan lined up in a 4-2-3-1 formation. Among the starters was YAMAMOTO Yuzuki (Denver Summit FC), whose move to the local side had recently been announced. Japan created the first opportunity. In the sixth minute, from a right-sided corner by TANIKAWA Momoko (Bayern Munich), KOGA Toko (Tottenham Hotspur) turned and struck, but her effort was gathered by the goalkeeper.

In the 21st minute, the United States threatened from a left corner, but GK HIRAO Chika (Granada CF) produced a fine save to avert danger. During this passage of play, KITAGAWA Hikaru (Everton) was forced off through injury. MORIYA Miyabi (Utah Royals), introduced as a substitute, settled quickly into the match. The remainder of the first half saw both sides cautiously probing, and it ended goalless.

Japan introduced attacking options at half-time, bringing on TANAKA Mina (Utah Royals), MATSUKUBO Manaka (North Carolina Courage), and HAMANO Maika (Tottenham Hotspur) in search of the opening goal. However, it was the United States who struck first. Just two minutes into the second half, they finished after a knock-back from the far post following a right-sided corner. Japan then conceded again in the 56th minute from a counter-attack, and once more in the 64th minute from another set-piece, falling three goals behind.

Despite this, Japan continued to press forward. In the 69th minute, Matsukubo, receiving a pass from Hamano, struck firmly with her right foot, but the effort went straight at the goalkeeper.

In the 75th minute, Japan earned a set-piece opportunity. From HAYASHI Honoka’s (Everton) delivery, KUMAGAI Saki (London City Lionesses) met the ball, but her timing was slightly off, and it sailed over the bar.

Japan adjusted their positioning as they searched for a way back into the match, but struggled to build effectively under sustained pressure from their opponents, and the match ended 0–3. Despite the defeat, the three-match series against the United States—ranked second in the FIFA rankings at the time—provided clear positives, including the ability to take on opponents individually in attack and a defence that showed tactical adaptability.

Coach and Players' Comments

KANO Michihisa, Caretaker Head Coach of Nadeshiko Japan
We wanted to find another gear, so it is very disappointing to end with this result. In particular, we need to improve further in dealing with set-pieces, and the timing of the goals we conceded allowed the opposition to build momentum. At the same time, if we cannot retain possession under this kind of pressure from top nations, we will not reach the next level. This match helped us clearly understand what is required and what we are lacking. Positively, we showed individual quality and strength in attack, and tactical flexibility in defence, such as adapting to the opponent and how we press. I believe these will carry us forward towards the FIFA Women’s World Cup in a year’s time.

DF #4 KUMAGAI Saki (London City Lionesses/England)
Personally, it is frustrating to concede from set-pieces, but the United States will continue to win matches like this, and that is their strength. Although we did not create many chances, we still had opportunities, and we need to improve our finishing, including from free-kicks. Looking back at the moments we lost possession, today’s match allowed the United States to play to their strengths and execute their game plan. While there are aspects we can improve in both defence and attack, we finished with one win and two losses. We must accept that we lost the series, but I believe we showed a performance that will lead to the next step as a team.

DF #21 MORIYA Miyabi (Utah Royals/USA)
From our previous matches, it felt like the United States had become more organised defensively and had made adjustments. On our side, the way we lost the ball after regaining possession was wasteful. Since the opposition did not press high as much, we had time on the ball, but our combinations were not as effective, and dangerous situations often arose from our own mistakes. Regarding the goal-line clearance, I hesitated between marking an opponent and holding my position, but since the passing lane in front was cut off, I felt that if a shot were to come, it could only be from that area. I think my reading was correct. To link better into attack, we need to be sharper in closing down and refine our ability to win the ball.