Don’t be surprised if the USWNT fails to win the 2025 SheBelieves Cup. Why? Well, two consecutive victories over Colombia and Australia don’t take them anywhere as they still trail Japan in the standings with a goal difference of four. Shoutout to the other two rivals for conceding four goals, each against the Asian side, while limiting the American team to just two goals apiece. Things couldn’t have been more daunting as their final match sees them face the table leaders themselves.

Winning is not the only solution here; they would be required to score more and concede less. However, that poses another significant challenge when looking at the rivals’ star players like Mina Tanaka, who is topping the tournament’s scoring charts with 4 goals. So how can the USA ensure they don’t concede and stay composed? Becky Sauerbrunn may have the answer.

The former defender had some wisdom to share how her team can successfully achieve the impossible. “Japan defends with a lot of numbers around the ball,” noted Becky on the latest episode of The Women’s Game podcast. “When we win the ball as Americans, we need to connect that first pass and get the ball to these open spaces because that’s where we thrive and where Japan struggles a little bit more.”

Sauerbrunn cited the previous game against the Matildas, recalling how both sides were combative in midfield. She urged Hayes and Co. to apply a similar tactical display against Japan, completely isolating them in 1v1 situations. But the question lies in the USA’s job of figuring out how exactly they’ll connect first passes.

Emphasizing the need to take the first initiative, Becky added, “How do we break that first line of pressure? Because you best believe that there’s going to be a lot of Japanese players around the ball when possession turns over.” Similar to the men’s team, the Japanese players hound on the ball with their irresistible press. There’s no way out. 

Further highlighting the potential challenges, the ex-Portland Thorns star added, “It’s really about who can put their foot on the ball. Where’s the composure? Where’s the space and how do we get there?” Yes, and that’s exactly what we need. Composure. 

These are the questions that surely Hayes and Co. should brainstorm. At least, they will get some ideas on how to stop Japan. Either way, this is quite sage advice from Sauerbrunn. However, if the US still needs additional guidance, they can turn to another veteran for support.

Defense is the key for the USWNT to ace the Japan test

Meghan Klingenberg was also invited on the same podcast after the previous game to share some knowledge that the USWNT could use. The former right-back gave a piece of “outrageous” advice by urging the 4x World Champions to “have as much fun as possible.”

That’s because concentrating on the rival’s strengths won’t take them anywhere. In fact, they shouldn’t even worry about the outcome and should stick to their crucial attributes. This includes maintaining free-flowing and quick play, filling the box, and closing down spaces quickly.

“They can’t just throw one person to go defend; they actually have to come up with an organized defense and press. If they don’t, then they’re going to just get played around,” added Klingenberg.

She also warned the SheBelieves Cup hosts of Japan’s ‘hive-minded’ nature, who tend to stick to their plan. The whole team likes to be on the same page, making it impossible for others to break their play. Yes, even in pressured situations! So as exhausting as it may get, Klingenberg wants the USWNT to remain intact with its positioning.

Be that as it may, it’s clear that Nadeshiko Japan will prove quite challenging for the USWNT. Let’s see whether Emma Hayes and Co. can surprise everyone by implementing these bits of advice.