USWNT vs Japan returns to the pitch tonight, with the two teams set to kick off the second of three April friendlies — with roster rotation on the agenda and a 10-game winning streak on the line.
The US opened the window with Saturday’s 2-1 win over the Nadeshiko, fueled by goals from veteran midfielders Rose Lavelle and Lindsey Heaps.
“I want the whole group to experience the highest level game,” US coach Emma Hayes said Monday.
“So, what a great situation we're in to be able to put another team out tomorrow to get that exposure against one of the best sides in the world. Because you cannot close gaps until you identify what they are, and you can't do that when you're comfortable, and you absolutely can't do that when you're always the dominant side.”
Leaning into the youth movement, the US could combine a younger midfield trio with speedy attackers tonight, while possibly taking a hit in central defense.
After a training injury took center back Emily Sonnett out of Saturday’s match, Hayes opted to pair newcomer Kennedy Wesley with starter Naomi Girma on the backline.
Angel City defender Emily Sams could step in should Sonnett remain unavailable — with novice outside backs Lilly Reale and Avery Patterson primed to pick up the slack.
How to Watch Tuesday's USWNT vs Japan Friendly
The USWNT takes on Japan tonight at 10 PM ET, live on TNT.
