USWNT vs Japan series: 5 takeaways
The USWNT played the Queens of Asia in this international break. Three games in two weeks left some unforgettable moments.
COMMERCE CITY, CO - APRIL 17: Midfielder Claire Hutton (16) of United States hugs forward Trinity Rodman (2) of United States after scoring during an international friendly match against Japan on Friday, April 17, 2026, at Dick's Sporting Goods Park in Commerce City, Colo. (Photo by Timothy Hurst/MediaNews Group/The Denver Post via Getty Images) | Denver Post via Getty Images April’s international break is in the books and after three matches played against Japan, some valuable moments were delivered involving young players taking leadership roles, breakouts, returns, and milestones reached. Kennedy Wesley’s shining moment It was game three when San Diego Wave center-back Kennedy Wesley entered the match from the bench at halftime and delivered the performance of her life.
The first goal in Kennedy's international career ☝️ pic. twitter. com/SDAFyeLUJq — U.
S. Women's National Soccer Team (@USWNT) April 19, 2026 She was a planned substitute for Tierna Davidson and had a tremendous impact on the match’s outcome, contributing to the three goals scored in Colorado. She assisted in Naomi Girma’s goal only two minutes into the second half.
Almost 10 minutes later, she intercepted a pass to launch the counterattack that led to Rose Lavelle scoring. The cherry on top happened in the 64th minute when she scored her first goal with the national team, with Jaedyn Shaw’s assist. Captain Claire Hutton The Bay FC midfielder cemented her place in the squad in this series.