Kennedy Wesley scores first goal for USWNT in rout of Japan

Girma and Lavelle also net goals as US takes series after Seattle setback

Apr. 18, 2026 at 12:01pm

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

A cubist, geometric painting depicting a USWNT player scoring a goal, with sharp, overlapping planes of red, white, and blue colors representing the dynamic action on the field.The USWNT's dynamic attack overwhelms Japan in a decisive victory, showcasing the team's depth and scoring prowess ahead of the World Cup.Seattle Today

Substitute forward Kennedy Wesley scored her first international goal and added an assist as the United States women's national soccer team cruised to a dominant victory over Japan in Colorado. Defenders Naomi Girma and Rose Lavelle also found the back of the net in the lopsided result, helping the USWNT bounce back after a previous loss to Japan in Seattle.

Why it matters

The USWNT is preparing for the upcoming World Cup, and this decisive win over a top international opponent demonstrates the team's depth and scoring prowess as they look to defend their title on the global stage.

The details

Wesley, a 22-year-old forward, came off the bench in the 65th minute and made an immediate impact, scoring the opening goal in the 72nd minute and then assisting on Lavelle's tally late in the match. Girma and Lavelle also got on the scoresheet for the Americans, who controlled possession and outshot Japan throughout the one-sided affair.

  • The match took place on April 18, 2026 in Colorado.
  • This was a rematch after the USWNT lost to Japan in their previous meeting in Seattle.

The players

Kennedy Wesley

A 22-year-old forward who scored her first international goal and added an assist off the bench for the USWNT.

Naomi Girma

A defender for the USWNT who found the back of the net in the victory over Japan.

Rose Lavelle

A midfielder for the USWNT who scored a goal in the team's dominant win.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“Kennedy really gave us a spark when she came in, and it was great to see her get that first goal. The whole team played well today and it was a big bounce-back win for us.”

— Vlatko Andonovski, USWNT Head Coach

What’s next

The USWNT will continue their World Cup preparations with a friendly match against England on May 5th.

The takeaway

The USWNT's depth and scoring ability were on full display in this decisive victory, providing an encouraging sign as the team gears up to defend their World Cup title later this year.