Rose Lavelle, USWNT Beat Japan as Sophia Wilson Returns to Open 3-Match Series

The United States Women's National Team wrapped up a 2-1 win over Japan on Saturday at PayPal Park.

Rose Lavelle made an early impact in her 100th career start, putting the USWNT up early with a goal on a set piece after finishing a pass from Trinity Rodman just over eight minutes into the match.

U.S. forward Sophia Wilson also made her return on the international stage after missing all of 2025 on maternity leave.

While the USWNT wouldn't score again for the remainder of the first half following Lavelle's finish, the team was able to stay in front due to its continued strong defensive play under head coach Emma Hayes.

This included Gisele Thompson putting an end to a breakaway from Japan's Manaka Matsukubo in the 39th minute.

It didn't take long for the United States to strike again in the second half, as Lindsey Heaps found the back of the net off a pass from Lavelle in the 48th minute.

The 2-0 lead for the USWNT was short-lived, though.

Roughly 13 minutes later, Honoka Hayashi connected with Riko Ueki for a header that cut Japan's deficit to 2-1.

The USWNT was ultimately able to hold on for the win, as goalkeeper Claudia Dickey racked up five saves.

The United States held 61.1 percent of possession throughout the match and finished with nine shot attempts.

Following the win, the USWNT will face Japan in another friendly on Tuesday.