The 2025 SheBelieves Cup kicked off in emphatic fashion at Shell Energy Stadium in Houston, where Japan overpowered Australia with a convincing 4-0 victory. With referee Natalie Simon presiding over the match, the crowd witnessed a dominant performance by Nadeshiko Japan from the opening whistle, leaving the Matildas searching for answers as they head deeper into the tournament.

First-Half Brilliance from Japan

Japan wasted no time setting the tone. Forward Mina Tanaka opened the scoring in just the 6th minute with a clinical finish. She then doubled the lead in the 32nd minute, pouncing on a defensive lapse from Australia. By halftime, the Matildas found themselves in a two-goal deficit, struggling to keep pace with Japan’s quick passing and relentless off-ball movement.

Second-Half Onslaught

While Australia made substitutions in an attempt to spark a comeback, it was Japan’s offense that continued to roll. Maika Hamano extended the lead at the 52nd minute, capitalizing on fluid teamwork and pin-point passing, and Moeka Minami sealed the deal with a 75th-minute goal. Despite late adjustments from the Matildas, including multiple substitutions at the 64th and 74th minutes, they were unable to muster a true threat on goal until very late in the match.

What We Learned

It’s clear this performance showcased why Japan remains one of Asia’s top contenders—organized, technically sharp, and punishing on the scoreboard. For Australia, this heavy defeat serves as a crucial wake-up call. Interim head coach Tom Sermanni acknowledged his side were “outplayed in every department,” highlighting the need for growth, both technically and mentally.

Moreover, with the Matildas gearing up for major continental competitions down the line, the urgency to shore up defensive lapses and refine attacking strategies has never been greater. The road ahead will demand adjustments if Australia hopes to match the intensity and precision that Japan displayed so thoroughly in Houston.

Match Highlights

  • 6′ – Mina Tanaka (JPN) Goal
  • 32′ – Mina Tanaka (JPN) Goal
  • 52′ – Maika Hamano (JPN) Goal
  • 60′ – Hinata Miyazawa (JPN) and Riko Ueki (JPN) Substitutions
  • 64′ – Australia makes four substitutions (Heatley, Galic, Mcnamara, Grant)
  • 71′ – Manaka Matsukubo (JPN) Substitution
  • 74′ – Emily van Egmond (AUS) Substitution
  • 75′ – Moeka Minami (JPN) Goal
  • 85′ – Yuka Momiki (JPN), Natasha Prior (AUS), and Miyabi Moriya (JPN) Substitutions

Throughout the match, Japan showed poise in possession and incisiveness around the penalty area, while the Matildas spent much of their energy chasing the ball.

Looking Ahead

The SheBelieves Cup continues with more high-profile matchups in the coming days. Both teams will quickly refocus, with Japan eyeing further success and Australia aiming to rebound from this tough loss. For fans and neutrals alike, the tournament promises to deliver more insights into the development and depth of top-tier women’s soccer nations.

#SheBelievesCup #JapanvsAustralia #WomensSoccer #NadeshikoJapan #Matildas #Scoccer