Mina Tanaka Achieves Historic Milestone in Player Spotlight

Utah Royals FC earned their first point of the 2026 NWSL season in a 1-1 draw at Audi Field on March 25, 2026. Mina Tanaka scored the equalizer in the 84th minute to level the match against the Washington Spirit.

Tanaka delivers a landmark goal

The forward entered the game in the 60th minute and quickly changed the match tempo. She nearly scored in the 77th minute after a pass from Kameron Simmonds.

Cece Delzer won possession high and created space with a driving run. Delzer’s pass found Tanaka, who finished with a right-footed strike in the 84th minute.

The goal represented the club’s 100th regular-season goal. In the Player Spotlight, Mina Tanaka reached a historic milestone for Utah Royals.

International form and recognition

Tanaka recently helped Japan win the AFC Women’s Asian Cup. She made four appearances and three starts during the tournament, scoring once.

She joined compatriot and Utah teammate Miyabi Moriya on that Japan roster. The Utah Sports Commission named Tanaka Female Athlete of the Year.

She will be honored at the State of Sport Awards on Wednesday, April 8.

Mia Justus keeps Utah in the match

Goalkeeper Mia Justus produced two vital saves in the second half. She denied point-blank attempts in the 54th and 56th minutes.

Justus has taken on starting duties while Mandy McGlynn recovers from a hand injury. She earned a week 2 Save of the Week nomination following the match with San Diego.

Her recent performances have reinforced the team’s confidence in her ability to start at this level.

Schedule and ticket information

The Royals conclude their two-game road trip at Gillette Stadium on Saturday, March 28. They face expansion side Boston Legacy FC with kickoff at 10 a.m. MT.

Utah returns home to host the Chicago Stars on Friday, April 3, with a 7 p.m. MT kickoff. Tickets are available through Filmogaz.com.