A City trio have helped Japan be crowned 2025 SheBelieves Cup champions following a 2-1 win over the United States of America.

Ayaka Yamashita, Yui Hasegawa and Aoba Fujino all played the full 90 minutes of Nadeshiko’s final match at the tournament as goals from Yuka Momiki and Toko Koga secured the memorable victory.

It means Nils Nielsen’s side have lifted the prestigious trophy for the first time in their history.

Japan began their triumphant SheBelieves quest with a strong 4-0 win over Australia at Shell Stadium, Houston, Texas.

Goals from Mina Tanaka (two), Maika Hamano and Moeka Minami helped them to the success as the Blues trio locked horns with City team-mate Mary Fowler who lined up for the Matildas.

Then it was over to State Farm Stadium where they saw past Colombia in Glendale, Arizona.

Although Yamashita and Hasegawa remained unused substitutes, Fujino starred in the 4-1 success as striker Mina Tanaka scored a brace and Momoko Tanikawa and Maika Hamono got one each.

That set up a decider with hosts the United States in their final assignment and Japan produced a fantastic display to collect the win they needed to seal SheBelieves Cup glory.

Momiki broke the deadlock inside the second minute, but Emma Hayes’ side equalised soon after through Ally Sentnor.

With the scoreline level at half-time, Koga reestablished Nadeshiko’s lead – an advantage they defended heroically to seal the win – and with it – the SheBelieves Cup.

By helping their nation to glory, it represents the latest highlight for City’s Japan contingent who have enjoyed sparkling individual displays this term.

Yamashita, Hasegawa and Fujino have made a combined 66 appearances for the Blues this term in all competition so far and are set to play important roles as we compete on four fronts before the end of the season.