The United States women’s national team opened their 2014 Algarve Cup campaign with a 1-1 draw against defending FIFA World Cup champions Japan in the first Group B match on Wednesday.

Sydney Leroux scored USA’s lone goal in the 59th minute, beating Japan goalkeeper Erina Yamane and slotting home an open rebound with ease. Leroux came close of adding another goal in the 73rd minute, with her shot bouncing off the left post.

Japan would later equalize in the 83rd minute with Aya Miyama scoring a free kick 35 yards out past USA goalkeeper Hope Solo into the upper right corner. Japan received the questionable call after Becky Sauerbrunn was called for a hand ball wile attempting to block a shot with her chest.

Continue Reading…(Fox Sports)