This April, United States Women’s National Team head coach Emma Hayes has booked three friendlies against Japan with the intention of giving her team the perfect preparation for next summer’s Women’s World Cup. So, what makes Japan the ideal opponent for the USWNT to go head-to-head with? How will the three lineups look different? And, what is it about Japan’s style of play that will help iron sharpen iron?

On this episode of Full Time, hosts Jillian Sakovits and Tamerra Griffin look into the past, present, and future of the rivalry between the United States and Japan. From the three consecutive finals between 2011 and 2015, to the nail-biting recent encounters, including their most recent bout at the SheBelieves Cup, where Japan upset their hosts 2-1. Hayes believes that Japan are a strong contender to win the 2027 World Cup, but does the podcast panel agree?

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HOST: Jillian Sakovits, Tamerra Griffin

PRODUCER: Theo Lloyd-Hughes

VIDEO PRODUCER: Lia Griffin

EXECUTIVE PRODUCER: Emily Olsen

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Referenced on the show:

Sophia Wilson back with USWNT: ‘I’m in a really great place right now’

Nils Nielsen leaves Japan 12 days after Asian Cup win, Michihisa Kano to take charge of U.S. friendlies

World Cup prep continues vs. Japan

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