U.S. women’s national team head coach Emma Hayes has been adjusting the roster over the past few months. On Saturday, April 11, as the USWNT prepared for their first friendly against Japan out of three this month, Hayes chose a lineup featuring experienced national team players. The starting roster included captain Lindsey Heaps, Rose Lavelle, who made her 100th career start, and Sophia Wilson, returning to the national team for the first time since giving birth in 2025.
The United States took an early lead when Lavelle scored in the 8th minute. A set piece from Sam Coffey reached Lavelle, allowing her to flick the ball into the net. This marked Lavelle’s 28th career goal and the seventh time she has either scored or assisted in her last eight appearances for the USWNT.