San Jose, California, hosted the first of three meetings between the U.S. and Japan during this international break, and Emma Hayes opted to name an experienced side for the friendly.

Girma started in defence and Thompson in attack for the USWNT, who broke the deadlock after just nine minutes when Rose Lavelle volleyed home after Trinity Rodman had guided the ball across goal.

Thompson had a good opportunity to double the home side's advantage midway through the opening period, but she was unable to take the chance. The USA added a second soon after the interval, though, as Lindsey Heaps slotted home from 12 yards.

Riko Ueki pulled a goal back for Japan in the 61st minute, and moments after the introduction of Blues forward Maika Hamano, who is currently on loan at Tottenham, but the USA were able to see out the game and record another win.

Meanwhile, Buchanan played 78 minutes as Canada recorded a commanding 4-0 victory over Zambia in their opening fixture of the 2026 FIFA series, an invitational friendly tournament between teams from different continental confederations.

Held in the Brazilian city of Cuiaba, Nichelle Prince netted a brace in the final ten minutes of the first half to put Canada in control. Annabelle Chukwu then struck twice in the closing stages of the game to ensure Les Rouges claimed three points.

Canada's next fixture takes place on Tuesday, as they face South Korea.