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USWNT vs. Japan live stream, how to watch: USA soccer look to rebound against world's best defense
TL;DR
The USWNT faces Japan in a crucial match after their first loss of 2026. This game concludes a three-match series and is vital for World Cup qualifying preparations.
Key points
- USWNT lost 1-0 in their last match
- Match against Japan concludes a three-game series
- Japan won two of the last three meetings
- Final game is crucial for World Cup qualifying preparations
- Head coach Emma Hayes rotated the roster in previous games
USWNTJapan
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Fresh off their first loss in 2026, the U.S. women's national team will close out a three-game series against Japan on Friday. The Americans are coming off a 1-0 loss on Tuesday, their first since October, setting up a riveting finale.
Japan have now won two of the last three meetings against the USWNT dating back to the 2025 She Believes Cup. The April trilogy has served as both a small reunion of returning USWNT players and a measuring stick for others trying to stake their place in the player pool. With a 10-game unbeaten streak now snapped, the final game against Japan is a chance to start a new one and look ahead to crucial preparations for World Cup qualifying in November.
Head coach Emma Hayes intentionally rotated her roster across the first two games, opting for an experienced lineup in match one and mostly a U23 caliber starting eleven in match two. With the series leveled, Friday's match lineup could be a mix, and it might be a final chance for players to leave their mark.
Here's how to watch and storylines:
How to watch
- Date: Friday, April 17 | Time: 9 p.m. ET
- Place: DICK'S Sporting Goods Park -- Commerce City, Co.
- TV: TNT, truTV
- Stream: HBO Max
Storylines for USWNT vs. Japan
Three tests are better than one: Manager Emma Hayes has been methodical in her approach to mapping out the three-game series, from a more experienced lineup in game one to cranking up the heat in game two with more U23 players. Match three will be another opportunity for players across the roster to show familiarity, adaptability, and problem-solving that were missing in game two.
Whether it's tactical adjustments by Japan or even the shift in weather, Hayes wants the team to embrace all of it.
"That's why we have positioned through an entirely female lens, the environmental conditions that are required, whether that's our players coming into altitude, whether it's going through temperature changes today to tomorrow," Hayes said in pregame comments.
Q&A
How can I watch the USWNT vs. Japan match live?
The USWNT vs. Japan match can be streamed live on various sports networks and streaming platforms; check local listings for details.
What was the result of the last USWNT match before facing Japan?
The USWNT lost 1-0 in their last match, marking their first defeat since October 2025.
Why is the match against Japan important for the USWNT?
This match is crucial for the USWNT as it serves as preparation for World Cup qualifying in November and a chance to rebound after their recent loss.
What is the history of USWNT's recent matches against Japan?
Japan has won two of the last three meetings against the USWNT, including matches from the 2025 She Believes Cup.
