The United States cruised to a 24-10 semifinal win over Japan at The World Games 2025 women’s sixes competition on Sunday in Chengdu, China.
The United States advanced to its third gold medal medal game in three editions of the The World Games and will look to avenge its defeat to Canada in the final in 2022. The gold medal game is set for Monday at 11:30 a.m. local time (UTC+8).
“We’re ready, we’re pumped,” said the United States’ Ally Mastroianni. “This team has come far. It’s been really so awesome just developing with this team playing this format that we’re learning together. So we’re really just ready to play at the highest level for the medal, and bring home the gold.”
Japan showcased its passing, creative finishing and discipline on the afternoon, but the United States’ ruthless transition game and unparalleled shotmaking were too much to handle.
“The key was to stick to our main goals and be consistent on the offensive and defensive side,” said Mastroianni. “We knew that Japan was a really strong team – they’re very skilled, they’re very fast, they’re very disciplined. So we had to play to our strengths and be aware of theirs. They gave us a great match today and I love seeing the progress that they’ve made.”
The United States ever-looming threat to break away was key on the day, and three early goals within a minute in the first quarter set the tone.
Japan found it foothold with a three goal run of its own, but the United States then took over with a 6-1 run, punishing Japan any time it lost the ball on offense with elite speed to set up easy looks.
The United States entered halftime up 13-6 and punched in another five goals to start the third, with an array of highlight finishes punctuated by an Izzy Scane rocket from distance.
The United States won the turnover and shots battle, but not by overwhelming margins, but the shooting percentage discrepancy of 52% for the winners to 31% for Japan was reflective.
Six different players had four or more points for the United States, with Marie McCool amassing six points and two assists. Charlotte North had six points and Mastroianni chipped in five.
Shea Dolce and Taylor Moreno combined to make 14 saves on 24 shots.
For Japan, Kokoro Nakazawa and Chisa Kobayashi both recorded hat tricks and Negai Nakazawa added three points. Mao Kawamura made 11 saves.
Japan will play for the bronze medal at 10 a.m. on Monday against Australia.
Gallery
Marie McCool
6 goals, 75% shooting percentage, 2 assists
