USWNT Announces April Match Against Japan at Dick's Sporting Goods Park
The United States Women's National Team will return to Colorado this spring for a high-profile friendly against Japan, the match is scheduled for April 17, 2026, at Dick's Sporting Goods Park. This fixture serves as critical preparation for the 2027 World Cup and highlights the region's growing status in professional soccer.
Deep Local Ties Fuel Excitement for Return
The relationship between the national squad and Colorado has strengthened significantly over recent years, the team boasts an impressive unbeaten record at the Commerce City venue. The region recently welcomed its own professional franchise, National Women's Soccer League expansion side Denver Summit FC begins play this season. Local stars like captain Lindsey Heaps have signed with the new club, this creates a unique synergy between the national team and the local fanbase.
Denver has positioned itself as a premier hub for women's sports in the United States, city officials have aggressively pursued top-tier events to showcase this identity. The national team last played at this venue in June 2025 against Ireland, the squad secured a victory that extended their dominance at the stadium to seven wins and one draw. These consistent sell-out crowds demonstrate the commercial viability of women's soccer in the Rocky Mountain region, the demand has influenced decisions regarding future stadium developments.
Federation Confirms Details for April Showdown
U.S. Soccer officially scheduled the kickoff for 7:00 PM Mountain Time on Friday, April 17, the game will be broadcast nationally on TNT, truTV, and streaming platforms including Peacock. This fixture is part of a broader series against Japan, head coach Emma Hayes is utilizing these games to evaluate the roster before major tournament play in 2027. The match provides a specific opportunity to test the squad against a technically proficient opponent, the coaching staff views Japan as an ideal benchmark for the team's current form.
Ticket distribution follows a tiered release schedule to manage high demand, presales for U.S. Soccer Insiders begin on Monday, January 26. The general public will gain access to remaining seats on Thursday, January 29, fans are encouraged to purchase early given the venue's capacity of roughly 18,500. The roster for this camp will likely feature Denver Summit FC talent, rising star Ayo Oke recently received a call-up alongside established veterans.
Key Broadcast and Venue Logistics
Viewers can watch the English broadcast on TNT and Max, Spanish coverage will be available on Universo. The event takes place at the home of the Colorado Rapids, this facility serves as the temporary home for the new women's club while their permanent stadium undergoes construction.
Expansion Franchise Benefits from High Profile Event
The timing of this international friendly provides a substantial marketing boost for Denver Summit FC, the club will play home matches at the same venue throughout their inaugural season. City officials view these events as economic drivers, they validate significant investments made into women's sports infrastructure including the planned facility in the Baker neighborhood. The presence of the national team reinforces the connection between local supporters and the global game, this benefits ticket sales and brand visibility for the new franchise.
Excitement is building for the spring kickoff, officials urge fans to secure seats early given the history of sell-out crowds in the Denver area.
