USWNT Player Ratings: Kennedy Wesley Inspires 3-0 Victory Over Japan

USWNT player ratings set the tone for a statement performance as the United States Women’s National Team defeated Japan 3-0 on Friday night in Commerce City, Colorado. This emphatic win, highlighted by Kennedy Wesley’s standout contribution off the bench, secured the USWNT’s 2-1 edge in the three-game international series.

USWNT Player Ratings: Wesley’s Impactful Cameo Changes the Game

After a tightly contested scoreless first half, the USWNT emerged from the break with renewed intensity. Just two minutes into the second half, substitute center back Kennedy Wesley made her mark. Wesley, entering for Tierna Davidson, delivered a pinpoint header across the box, allowing Naomi Girma to nod home her third international goal—each one a header—giving the U.S. a crucial lead.

Emma Hayes, the USWNT manager, praised her team’s possession-oriented approach, emphasizing the importance of ball control against a dynamic Japanese side. “I believe to win the biggest things, you have to have the ball,” Hayes remarked, highlighting the tactical shift that paid dividends in the decisive match.

Rose Lavelle and Teamwork Extend USWNT’s Advantage

The USWNT doubled their lead through a well-orchestrated team move. Lindsey Heaps, playing in her hometown, initiated the attack from midfield, finding Trinity Rodman surging down the wing. Rodman’s slick pass slipped Rose Lavelle in behind Japan’s high defensive line, and Lavelle finished expertly for her second goal in three matches, underscoring her knack for producing in big moments.

Less than ten minutes later, Wesley put the match out of reach. Reacting fastest to a cross, she used the outside of her foot to steer the ball past Japanese goalkeeper Chika Hirao, marking her first international goal and capping off a dream substitute appearance.

Emma Hayes’ Tactical Rotation Pays Off

Manager Emma Hayes made significant changes to the lineup, rotating ten new players in for the series finale. Only 20-year-old midfielder Claire Hutton retained her starting spot from the previous match, showcasing Hayes’ commitment to squad depth and development ahead of the 2027 FIFA Women’s World Cup. Hayes lauded Lindsey Heaps, who wore the captain’s armband in front of local supporters, as “an important contributor and leader.”

The defense, marshaled by Girma and supported by the likes of Emily Fox and Gisele Thompson, proved impenetrable. Davidson’s steady first-half performance, despite a brief injury scare, and Fox’s dynamic runs up the wing kept Japan’s attack at bay.

Midfield and Attack Shine in USWNT Player Ratings

In midfield, Claire Hutton’s chemistry with Lindsey Heaps and Rose Lavelle provided the foundation for creative play. Lavelle’s advanced positioning and improvisation around the box offered a constant threat, while Heaps’ leadership and composure set the tempo for the U.S. attack.

On the flanks, Trinity Rodman’s energy and link-up play contributed directly to Lavelle’s goal. Sophia Wilson showed promise as she continues regaining peak form, while Alyssa Thompson experienced a quieter outing but maintained her composure alongside her sister Gisele.

Bench Impact: Wesley Leads the Way, Depth Shines

Kennedy Wesley’s player ratings soared as she delivered both an assist and a goal, changing the game’s trajectory. Other substitutes, including Jaedyn Shaw, Avery Patterson, and Sam Coffey, brought energy and discipline, helping the USWNT maintain their dominance and protect the clean sheet.

Emma Hayes’ strategic adjustments and player management received high marks, as she continues refining her preferred group for future challenges.

Comprehensive USWNT Player Ratings vs Japan

• Claudia Dickey (6/10): A quiet evening but recorded another clean sheet and 10th international appearance.
• Naomi Girma (8/10): Scored the opener, was solid defensively, and demonstrated her two-way abilities.
• Tierna Davidson (6/10): Reliable in the first half and effective in distribution.
• Emily Fox (7/10): Provided speed and discipline on the flank.
• Gisele Thompson (7/10): Confident performance, frequently joining the attack.
• Claire Hutton (7/10): Maintained consistency and chemistry in midfield.
• Lindsey Heaps (7/10): Commanded the midfield, especially significant in her hometown.
• Rose Lavelle (8/10): Creative and decisive, netting her second goal of the series.
• Trinity Rodman (6/10): Contributed directly to Lavelle’s goal with her movement and passing.
• Sophia Wilson (7/10): Showed progress in her return to form.
• Alyssa Thompson (5/10): Lacked opportunities but remained composed.
• Kennedy Wesley (9/10): Game-changing performance with an assist and her first international goal.
• Jaedyn Shaw (6/10): Positive moments but limited ball involvement.
• Avery Patterson (6/10): Kept Japan at bay after coming on.
• Sam Coffey (6/10): Added experience and maintained control late on.
• Olivia Moultrie (6/10): Steady presence in midfield off the bench.
• Ally Sentnor (6/10): Injected energy but was unable to impact the scoreline.
• Lily Yohannes (6/10): Helped keep the midfield ticking as a late substitute.
• Lilly Reale (5/10): Came in late and had little involvement.

Manager: Emma Hayes (8/10)

Hayes’ tactical flexibility and trust in her squad were rewarded as the USWNT closed out a competitive three-game series with a convincing victory.

Opinion: USWNT Player Ratings Reflect Bright Future

USWNT player ratings from this match underline the program’s impressive depth and adaptability. Kennedy Wesley’s emergence as a difference-maker, alongside the solidity of Girma and the creativity of Lavelle, signals a promising path as Emma Hayes experiments with her roster. With several young players gaining valuable minutes, the USWNT is building a strong foundation for the next generation—one that should excite fans and keep the U.S. firmly among the world’s elite. For continued coverage and updates, visit for more news.