WOMEN'S SOCCER WORLD CUP 2011: Japan's character seen in women's World Cup victory

http://www.fifa.com/

At perhaps the most tense time in Sunday’s FIFA Women's World Cup final - preparations for the penalty kick shootout - TV cameras showed Japanese coach Norio Sasaki smiling and laughing with his players. Cameras focused on the U.S. women showed a different mood, with expressions of grit, focus and determination.


The contrast was stark, and that wasn’t a surprise to Sasaki.

"It seemed to me there was more pressure on the Americans," he said.

It was a remarkable moment for Japan, a country that has had little to smile about this year, and a keen insight from the coach of a team that had not beaten the Americans in 25 games.

But Sasaki’s assessment was spot-on.

The Japanese women made three of the four shots they took in the penalty shootout, while the Americans could find the net on only one.

"We had made it all the way to the final, extra time and penalties. We had come a long way, so maybe we handled the pressure better. We had twice come back, and that eased the psychological pressure," he said in an Agence France-Presse story on NDTV.com.

The Japanese team lifted the trophy as world champions. They also lifted the spirits of a nation struggling to recover from the March 11 earthquake and tsunami that left more than 20,000 people dead or missing, destroyed miles and miles of cities and farmland, and caused a leak from a nuclear power plant that has turned of a 25-mile radius around the plant into a virtual no-man’s land.

For all the smiles and laughs in Japan’s pre-shootout huddle in Frankfurt, Germany, on Sunday, it was a different tack from the one Sasaki took before his team’s quarterfinal against defending champion Germany, when he showed them pictures of the March 11 devastation as inspiration.

Those images gave the Japanese women something to fight for and made them want to be an example.

“Japan has been hurt, and so many lives have been affected,” captain and leading scorer Homare Sawa said in a New York Times report. “We cannot change that. But Japan is coming back, and this was our chance to represent our nation and show that we never stopped working.”

Sawa was right about that. Twice, Japan fell behind by a goal against the Americans, once in regulation and once in overtime, and twice they got tying goals as the clocked ticked into the final minutes.

"Not one of the players gave up," Sasaki said..

Merry White, a professor of anthropology at Boston University and an expert on Japanese culture, said the women’s performance illustrated some key qualities of Japanese society: hard work and resilience.

“It wasn’t only skills that got them close. … It’s the effort that counts,” White said.

They’d certainly put in an historic effort taking down Germany and then favored Sweden in a semifinal, and then tying the top-ranked U.S. team through 120 minutes. And White says that could account for the light mood as the Japanese team prepared for the penalty shootout.

“The women were jubilant that they’d gotten that far,” she said, but they probably thought they had an edge, too.

“They believe in will,” she said, showing “when we put our minds to something we can do it.”

Add one more quality that brought confidence: teamwork.

White said Sasaki’s smiles showed that.

“It sure looked like he was at one with the women, working with them instead of above them,” White said.

The team was nicknamed the nadeshiko, a floral metaphor for an ideal Japanese woman with virtues including loyalty, domestic ability, wisdom and humility. Not mentioned is leadership, but that’s a quality the team took Sunday.

The nation’s defense minister, Toshimi Kitazawa, said he hopes its politicians can learn from the women’s spirit and teamwork as officials try to solve the nuclear crisis at the tsunami-damaged Fukushima nuclear power plant.

“I am delighted. The team showed great perseverance and sent a good message toward recovery from the major disaster,” he said, according to a report on JapanToday.com.

In Tokyo’s sports bars in the early morning hours Monday, average citizens, at least, were buying in.

"At a time when things are going so bad for Japan, this news makes me so happy," Saori Shiratori was quoted as saying in the Los Angeles Times.

"When we won, I went crazy and hugged everyone I could," Yuri Itoga told the Times. "This ecstatic feeling is a lot more intense because we suffered the disaster in March. It makes me feel like I can't just sit around and do nothing."

WOMEN’S SOCCER WORLD CUP GERMANY 2011:Japan champions in penalty kicks definition, dramatic 2-2 with USA in overtime

By JUAN CARLOS CORDERO, UNO International News Service.-


At the beginning of the Japan and United final in Germany 2011 Women's World Cup, it seemed that the Americans will dominate without a challenge. Rapinoe was very active in the middle and passing balls to Wambach - a real threat on the Japanese net - and a lot of pressure from United States was hurting the Asian team.

However, Japan had a variety of technical skills, tactical movements and a careful ball possession game, galvanized by the suffering of their country's tsunami and earthquakes, battling even with one player less due to a red card for a late foul on Morgan.
USA started strong: Wambach hit the bar, near 30 minutes. But a pass of Japan behind the USA defense, showed that it wouldn't be so easy. Unfortunately for the blue team, its striker shot softly. It could be a goal. And immediately, number 12 missed a chance to scored with a header for USA.

The stats report showed that  USA had 12 shots on the Japanese net against 5 of its rivals in the first half. But Japn had 57% of the ball possession.

The second period was similar, with USA putting all the powerful physical stamina and loking to score in all the ways possible with Wambach and Rapinoe in the assistance. Until 68', when substitute Alex Morgan received a long pass by Rapinoe, after a Japanese attach, and in the counter-attack Morgan shot to score with her left foot.

JAPAN 2:2 USA a.e.t. (1:1, 0:0) 3:1 PSO


Aya MIYAMA (81')

Homare SAWA (117')

Alex MORGAN (69')

Abby WAMBACH (104')

Match 32 - Group Frankfurt/Main

FIFA Women´s World Cup Stadium, FrankfurtReferee: Bibiana STEINHAUS
 
Japan are FIFA Women’s World Cup champions for the first time after a penalty shootout victory over USA, following a drama-charged 2-2 draw in Frankfurt.


Defender Saki Kumagai had the honour of hitting home the decisive spot-kick as Japan triumphed 3-1 in the shootout. USA were twice pegged back but it took Homare Sawa to equalise three minutes from the end of extra time to force penalties.

USA created numerous goalscoring opportunities throughout the match but Aya Miyama’s goal nine minutes from the end of the 90 minutes forced extra time, after Alex Morgan had given the Stars and Stripes the lead on 69 minutes. Abby Wambach seemed set to have scored the winner on 104 minutes until Sawa’s late intervention.

The tone was set for a strong USA performance with the two-time world champions showing their intent from the opening whistle. Lauren Cheney forced a save from Ayumi Kaihori with a shot from a highly acute angle, after the forward had outmuscled Azusa Iwashimizu just 25 second into the contest.

On eight minutes, Megan Rapinoe found some space on the left and her excellent near post ball was turned just wide by Cheney. Barely a minute later, Wambach fired a shot over as USA maintained their bright start.

Carli Lloyd could then easily have opened the scoring when Japan were unable to deal with Wambach’s presence under a high early cross into the penalty area. The ball fell kindly for the midfielder but she blazed narrowly over the crossbar from 15 metres.

Rapinoe then pushed the ball wide at the near post in a move reminiscent of Cheney’s effort a few minutes earlier.

Unlike recent matches, Japan were struggling to maintain any possession in midfield. USA kept up their attacking raids as the lively Rapinoe burst into the area on the left and blazed a shot against the outside of Kaihori’s post.

The match started to settle by the midway point of the opening half, and Japan finally had their first shot of note on 22 minutes, but Shinobu Ohno’s strike was wayward.

The moment of the first half came on 29 minutes as Wambach, USA’s all-time top FIFA Women’s World Cup goalscorer, hit a stunning shot from close to the corner of the penalty area which rattled the underside of the crossbar and away to safety, with Kaihori well beaten.

Japan finally displayed some of their semi-final form just past the half-hour mark as Ohno threaded a pass behind the defence, but Kozue Ando was unable to get power on her effort from a good shooting position.

Cheney then pushed a looping header onto the roof of the net after a long ball deceived a static Japan backline.

USA commenced the second half in much the same way they did the first. Just four minutes after the interval, Heather O’Reilly crossed from the right and Morgan, who came on for Cheney during the break, pushed her near post effort against the post.

O’Reilly then blasted a shot against the side-netting from distance, while Wambach skied a good opportunity after being set free by a delightful Rapinoe ball.

Just past the hour mark, Sawa, enjoying a rare moment of time on the ball in the attacking third, threaded a smart pass for Yukari Kinga but the defender’s shot was well wide.

Minutes later Wambach’s smart header forced an excellent save from Kaihori as USA pushed ever closer to an opener.

Finally USA secured reward for their dominance with the opening goal on 69 minutes as Morgan broke the deadlock with her second of the tournament. A quick counter attack saw Rapinoe play an excellent ball through for Morgan to use her strength to hold off a defender, before hitting a perfect finish past Kaihori.

The 22-year-old Morgan again proved herself as a player for the big occasion, having hit the winner for USA against Korea DPR in the final of the 2008 FIFA U-20 Women’s World Cup.

Japan equalised somewhat against the run of play 12 minutes later as a cross from the right caused chaos in the USA defence, with Miyama taking full advantage to push the ball past Hope Solo from close range.

The match was end-to-end in the remaining minutes with Kinga and O’Reilly both firing good efforts in on goal without being able to break the deadlock. So for the fourth time in six FIFA Women’s World Cup Finals, 90 minutes proved not enough to find a winner.

The match continued in an open fashion and at a high tempo following the recommencement. Morgan carved out the first opening of extra time only to shoot askew after getting the better of two defenders.

USA again took the lead one minute prior to the end of the opening period of extra time. Wambach powered home a bullet header from close range following Morgan’s precise cross. It was Wambach’s fourth of the tournament, all from headers.

With five minutes remaining, Kinga pushed the ball past the onrushing Solo with only a clearance from retreating captain Christie Rampone denying an equaliser.

However, from the ensuing corner, Sawa equalised by diverting Miyama’s corner with just three minutes remaining. The goal not only ensured the match would be decided by penalties but lifted Sawa into the outright lead as top goalscorer, with five goals. Iwashimizu was then sent off for a professional foul as time ran out.

Shannon Boxx, Carli Lloyd and Tobin Heath failed to convert USA's opening three penalties, and while Yuki Nagasato had her effort saved, Japan were not to be denied as Asia claimed the title for the first time.

Player of the match: Ayumi Kaihori (Japan, GK)


MINUTE BY MINUTE

The penalty shoot-out is over.


5 KUMAGAI (Japan) successfully converts the penalty!

5 WAMBACH (USA) successfully converts the penalty!

5 SAKAGUCHI (Japan) successfully converts the penalty!

5 HEATH (USA) sees her penalty saved by the goalkeeper.

5 Y.NAGASATO (Japan) sees her penalty saved by the goalkeeper.

5 LLOYD (USA) misses from the penalty spot!

5 MIYAMA (Japan) successfully converts the penalty!

5 BOXX (USA) sees her penalty saved by the goalkeeper.

The penalty shoot-out is about to begin.

The referee blows for the end of the second period of extra time.

120' +3 9 USA are ruled offside.

120' +3 6 USA has a shot blocked.

120' +2 6 USA has a shot blocked.

120' +1 2 IWASHIMIZU (Japan) is sent off!

120' +1 11 Japan concede a free-kick following a challenge on a player from USA.

120' 7 USA tries a shot on goal, but it is off-target.

119' 4 IWABUCHI (in) comes off the bench to replace MARUYAMA (out) (Japan)

117' 3 (2 - 2) SAWA (Japan) scores!!

115' 10 Japan swing in the corner.

115' 32 The goalkeeper of USA pulls off a save.

115' 8 A player from Japan sees her effort hit the target.

114' 4 HEATH (in) comes off the bench to replace RAPINOE (out) (USA)

109' 7 Japan tries a shot on goal, but it is off-target.

The referee signals the start of the second period of extra time.

The referee blows for the end of the first period of extra time.

105' 9 A player from USA is adjudged to be in an offside position.

104' 3 (1 - 2) WAMBACH (USA) scores!!

103' 6 USA has a shot blocked.

101' 7 Japan tries a shot on goal, but it is off-target.

97' 1 MIYAMA (Japan) is booked by the referee.

97' 11 A player from Japan commits a foul.

95' 7 USA tries a shot on goal, but it is off-target.

95' 11 USA are penalised after committing a foul.

92' 32 The goalkeeper of Japan pulls off a save.

92' 8 A player from USA sees her effort hit the target.

92' 6 USA has a shot blocked.

91' 10 USA take the corner kick.

The referee signals the start of the first period of extra time.

End of regular time - extra time to follow...

90' +1 7 USA tries a shot on goal, but it is off-target.

89' 7 Japan tries a shot on goal, but it is off-target.

88' 11 A player from USA illegally handles the ball.

85' 10 USA swing in the corner.

84' 11 Japan concede a free-kick following a challenge on a player from USA.

82' 11 A player from Japan commits a foul.

81' 3 (1 - 1) MIYAMA (Japan) scores!!

79' 32 The goalkeeper of USA pulls off a save.

79' 8 A player from Japan sees her effort hit the target.

78' 9 USA are ruled offside.

75' 9 A player from Japan is adjudged to be in an offside position.

74' 11 Japan are penalised after committing a foul.

73' 32 The goalkeeper of USA pulls off a save.

73' 8 A player from Japan sees her effort hit the target.

70' 11 USA concede a free-kick following a challenge on a player from Japan.

69' 3 (0 - 1) MORGAN (USA) scores!!

68' 6 USA has a shot blocked.

67' 11 A player from Japan commits a foul.

66' 11 USA are penalised after committing a foul.

66' 4 Y.NAGASATO (in) comes off the bench to replace ANDO (out) (Japan)

66' 4 MARUYAMA (in) comes off the bench to replace OHNO (out) (Japan)

65' 10 USA take the corner kick.

64' 32 The goalkeeper of Japan pulls off a save.

64' 8 A player from USA sees her effort hit the target.

64' 9 Japan are ruled offside.

63' 10 USA swing in the corner.

62' 10 USA take the corner kick.

62' 7 Japan tries a shot on goal, but it is off-target.

57' 10 USA swing in the corner.

56' 10 Japan take the corner kick.

55' 11 Japan concede a free-kick following a challenge on a player from USA.

54' 11 A player from USA commits a foul.

53' 7 USA tries a shot on goal, but it is off-target.

52' 7 USA tries a shot on goal, but it is off-target.

51' 11 USA are penalised after committing a foul.

49' 7 So close! USA are denied by the post.

48' 11 USA concede a free-kick following a challenge on a player from Japan.

46' 4 MORGAN (in) comes off the bench to replace CHENEY (out) (USA)

The second half kicks off.

The referee brings the first half to an end.

45' +1 7 Japan tries a shot on goal, but it is off-target.

41' 11 A player from Japan commits a foul.

41' 11 USA are penalised after committing a foul.

40' 11 USA concede a free-kick following a challenge on a player from Japan.

38' 7 Japan tries a shot on goal, but it is off-target.

38' 10 Japan swing in the corner.

34' 7 USA tries a shot on goal, but it is off-target.

34' 11 A player from Japan commits a foul.

31' 32 The goalkeeper of USA pulls off a save.

31' 8 A player from Japan sees her effort hit the target.

29' 7 USA tries a shot on goal, but it is off-target.

29' 7 So close! A player from USA rattles the crossbar.

27' 10 Japan take the corner kick.

25' 10 USA swing in the corner.

24' 11 Japan are penalised after committing a foul.

23' 11 USA concede a free-kick following a challenge on a player from Japan.

22' 7 Japan tries a shot on goal, but it is off-target.

20' 6 USA has a shot blocked.

18' 7 So close! USA are denied by the post.

17' 6 USA has a shot blocked.

17' 7 USA tries a shot on goal, but it is off-target.

12' 7 USA tries a shot on goal, but it is off-target.

11' 7 USA tries a shot on goal, but it is off-target.

9' 7 USA tries a shot on goal, but it is off-target.

8' 7 USA tries a shot on goal, but it is off-target.

6' 6 Japan has a shot blocked.

3' 11 A player from Japan commits a foul.

1' 10 USA take the corner kick.

1' 32 The goalkeeper of Japan pulls off a save.

1' 8 A player from USA sees her effort hit the target.

The match kicks off.

THE ROAD TO THE FINAL


JAPAN

Group State

• Japan 2, New Zealand 1

• Japan 4, Mexico 0

• Japan 0, England 2

Quarterfinals

• Japan 1, Germany 0

Semifinals

• Japan 3, Sweden 1

UNITED STATES

Group Stage

• USA 2, North Korea 0

• USA 2, Colombia 0

• USA 1, Sweden 2

Quarterfinals

• USA 2, Brazil 2, United States won in penalty shoots

Semifinals

• USA 3, France 1


Final


Japan - USA2:2 a.e.t. (1:1, 0:0) 3:1 PSOMatch Date Venue / Stadium Time Attendance

32 17 July 2011 Frankfurt/Main / FIFA Women´s World Cup Stadium, Frankfurt 20:45 48817



Goals scored

Alex MORGAN (USA) 69', Aya MIYAMA (JPN) 81', Abby WAMBACH (USA) 104', Homare SAWA (JPN) 117'

Japan

Line-up

[21] Ayumi KAIHORI (GK)

[2] Yukari KINGA

[3] Azusa IWASHIMIZU

[4] Saki KUMAGAI

[6] Mizuho SAKAGUCHI

[7] Kozue ANDO (-66')

[8] Aya MIYAMA

[9] Nahomi KAWASUMI

[10] Homare SAWA (C)

[11] Shinobu OHNO (-66')

[15] Aya SAMESHIMA

Substitute(s)

[1] Nozomi YAMAGO (GK)

[12] Miho FUKUMOTO (GK)

[5] Kyoko YANO

[13] Rumi UTSUGI

[14] Megumi KAMIONOBE

[16] Asuna TANAKA

[17] Yuki NAGASATO (+66')

[18] Karina MARUYAMA (+66')(-119')

[19] Megumi TAKASE

[20] Mana IWABUCHI (+119')

Coach

Norio SASAKI (JPN)USA

Line-up

[1] Hope SOLO (GK)

[3] Christie RAMPONE (C)

[6] Amy LE PEILBET

[7] Shannon BOXX

[9] Heather O REILLY

[10] Carli LLOYD

[11] Alex KRIEGER

[12] Lauren CHENEY (-46' HT)

[15] Megan RAPINOE (-114')

[19] Rachel BUEHLER

[20] Abby WAMBACH

Substitute(s)

[18] Nicole BARNHART (GK)

[21] Jill LOYDEN (GK)

[2] Heather MITTS

[4] Becky SAUERBRUNN

[5] Kelley O HARA

[8] Amy RODRIGUEZ

[13] Alex MORGAN (+46' HT)

[14] Stephanie COX

[16] Lori LINDSEY

[17] Tobin HEATH (+114')

Coach

Pia SUNDHAGE (SWE)Cautions

Aya MIYAMA (JPN) 97'

Sent off

Azusa IWASHIMIZU (JPN) 120'+1

Penalty Shoot-out

Aya MIYAMA 8Goal
Yuki NAGASATO 17Saved
Mizuho SAKAGUCHI 6
GoalSaki KUMAGAI 4

GoalShannon BOXX 7Saved
Carli LLOYD 10Missed
Tobin HEATH 17Saved
Abby WAMBACH 20Goa

lJapan (JPN) Statistics USA (USA)

14 Shots 27

6 Shots on goal 5

2 Goals Scored 2

11 Fouls Committed 10

9 Fouls Suffered 11

4 Corner kicks 8

0 Free kicks Shots (scored) 0

0 / 0 Penalty Kicks (Goals/Shots) 0 / 0

2 Offsides 3

0 Own Goals 0

1 Yellow cards 0

0 Second yellow card and red card 0

1 Red Cards 0

48 Actual playing time 42

53% Possession (%) 47%

a.e.t.: After extra time (C): Captain PSO: Penalty Shoot-out

GK: Goalkeeper N: Not eligible to play I: Injured

Y: Misses next match if booked Pos: Positions A: Absent

HOMARE SAWA'S DREAMS

Having made her debut for Japan 18 years ago, aged 15, and now a veteran of five FIFA Women’s World Cup finals, Homare Sawa is in a unique position to comment on the situation the Nadeshiko currently find themselves in.


Playing some of the finest football of the tournament in Germany, Japan have eliminated the hosts – and reigning champions – and in-form Sweden on their way to setting up a final against women’s football heavyweights USA.

Sawa admitted she cannot quite believe what has happened. "I've played as a national team member for 18 years now. I could never imagine myself being in the final of the World Cup, until some years ago," she told FIFA.com.

"To be in the Final is, to be honest, like a dream. It has been a long journey for our women's national team to reach this point and I feel very happy to be at the best stage with my team-mates."

Attempting to deny Japan in the final in Frankfurt will be Pia Sundhage’s United States team, who have battled through to the showpiece on sheer will at times. Both sides adopt contrasting styles, with Japan relying on a short-passing possession game, and USA using a more direct approach to make the most of their aerial prowess.

We know USA are a great and strong team but they have weak points too and there's always a chance to score.Homare Sawa, Japan midfielder

"The win against Germany gave us confidence, but we have never been the world champion. We are always a challenger," 32-year-old Sawa conceded. "Personally, I have a special feeling to play the Final against USA, it's the country that made me a better player. I think the god of football gave me a big chance."

A look at the statistics suggests Japan may need luck on their side. This is their first-ever FIFA Women’s World Cup Final and they have never beaten USA in 25 attempts, losing on 22 occasions.

But Sawa retains hope: "I've played in the US league and I know most of the players. We know USA are a great and strong team but they have weak points too and there's always a chance to score."

With Sawa in the team, Japan do indeed always offer a goal threat. She currently tops the tournament scoring chart, alongside Brazil’s Marta, with four goals. The midfielder could therefore be forgiven for having half an eye on the Golden Boot.

"It would be great if I could receive the Golden Boot Award, but I'm concentrating on the team's result," the No10 insisted. "The most important thing for me is to go for our goal of being champions. It is something that only comes as a result of working hard for the team's win."

Playing for the people at home

Sawa has spent much of her club career moving between the United States and Japan, and currently plays in her homeland for INAC Leonessa. Possibly entering the final years of her playing life, Germany 2011 could be her last FIFA Women’s World Cup but for now, she is not thinking too far ahead.

She said: "I think I'm good at switching my mode from football to private time, and I think this is one of the reasons why I've been playing for the national team for 18 years. I enjoy my life off the pitch as well as football. I don't know about the future, but I want to keep playing as long as possible. But for now, I'm concentrated on the match."

Japan’s success holds extra poignancy given the problems the country has suffered since an earthquake rocked the nation in March this year. Sawa expressed her hope that the team's performance could have an impact back home. "The time is not easy for Japan at the moment, after we had the quake," she explained.

"I feel grateful for being able to play football, more than I've felt in the past. I hope we can give strength and encouragement to the Japanese people back home. I hope our football has given a chance for future players and children to dream. Uniting all the strength of Japanese women's football and Japanese football, we will go for the championship."


JAPAN & USA COMMENTS

Looking back at the game, there are some points of criticism. We were quite rigid at times and we didn’t always play our game. Our defensive was very focussed and organised, very much like the game against Germany. We didn’t really get into the game 100 per cent like we would have liked to. There simply wasn’t enough space to play passes.

The Americans had some great attacking play but our defensive line was very well organised. The players were patient, they wanted to win this game and I think it’s because of that the Americans scored only two goals. Yes we had luck in the penalty shootout and I definitely got some help from my football god!

Considering the current situation in Japan I would like to take this opportunity to thank everyone for their support, and in particular for the support we received from Germany. Germany is a grand football country and we received a lot of support here in Germany.

Norio Sasaki, Japan coach

We gave the crowd a good game today. It will be a final to remember and credit to both teams. I am very happy with how we played in the first half. We changed our style compared to the semi-final. I’m disappointed, and yes we won silver. Hopefully I can feel that in a few weeks.

Playing in the final at the highest level, you have to take your chances, and we weren’t sharp enough with the two goals conceded and that is why we didn’t win the game.

II would like to take this opportunity to thank Germany. This experience has been phenomenal and the bar has been set very high moving forward.

There is something to be said about the way Japan plays. They are comfortable with the ball even when they are behind and that kind of thing is good for women’s football.

Pia Sundhage, USA coach

We have some very good players on the team and this is why we have been able to win the final. I received excellent support from the other players and I want to emphasise this is a team effort. In the penalty shootout I just had to believe in myself and I was very confident.

Ayumi Kaihori, Japan goalkeeper and player of the match

WOMEN'S SOCCER WORLD CUP 2011: USA are into the Final with two late goals over France 3-1

USA see off France to reach decider

USA are into the 2011 FIFA Women’s World Cup Final™ with two late goals eventually subduing a brave France 3-1 in Monchengladbach.

The Americans, who will compete in their first decider since winning on home soil in 1999, will face the winner of tonight’s second semi-final between Japan and Sweden.

The action-packed match was locked 1-1 until Abby Wambach and substitute Alex Morgan scored twice in the space of three minutes in the latter stages to end France’s dreams of a first Final appearance.

Both teams came out of the blocks fast in wet conditions at the Stadion im Borussia-Park seemingly determined to take the game to their opponents. However it was USA who took the early advantage with Lauren Cheney deftly deflecting the ball home at the near post on nine minutes, following Heather O’Reilly’s powerful run and cross down the left flank.

Approaching the half hour mark Louisa Necib fired on target from the edge of the penalty area with Hope Solo forced to react quickly and tip over the crossbar. Almost immediately France struck the crossbar through a well-hit Sonia Bompastor effort from the corner of the penalty area, after Necib laid off a free-kick.

Les Bleues were enjoying a strong period peppering the USA goal with a number of efforts from distance.

Then it was USA’s opportunity to attack with Abby Wambach twice coming close in a matter of minutes before the interval. A lightning raid saw Shannon Boxx deliver a perfect cross to Wambach at the back post but the American striker could only direct her header across the face of goal from an awkward angle. Wambach could then have scored at the near post in a move reminiscent of Cheney’s goal, only for the No20 to stab her shot wide.

The second period continued in a similar vein to the first, with high tempo and end-to-end action.

France restored parity ten minutes after the interval with a somewhat lucky goal, although one that proved reward for their persistent attacking endeavour. Bompastor played a searching cross into the penalty area which snuck in off the far post, with the ball having eluding Solo who was distracted by Gaetane Thiney’s presence.

French goalkeeper Berangere Sapowicz made a crucial stop at the feet of Morgan as the substitute seemed certain to score from a rebound.

The Americans got the breakthrough with 11 minutes remaining as the physically imposing Wambach scored with a towering header at the back post from a perfect Cheney corner. The goal saw Wambach draw level with Michelle Akers on 12 goals as the leading USA goalscorer in the FIFA Women’s World Cup. Three minutes later the contest was effectively over as Morgan concluded a swift counter-attack with a smart finish past the exposed Sapowicz.

Player of the match: Abby Wambach (USA)

WOMEN'S SOCCER WORLD CUP: USA defeated Brazil in the drama of penalties

USA advanced into the semi-finals of the 2011 FIFA Women’s World Cup™ by defeating Brazil on penalties in a drama-charged encounter in Dresden.


Victory for USA sets up a last-four meeting with France on Wednesday and continues their record of never missing the semi-finals.

USA led after just two minutes thanks to an own goal from Brazil defender Daiane, who turned a Shannon Boxx cross into her own net.

The South Americans were able to recover thanks to a twice-taken penalty midway through the second half, and Marta doubled her tally just two minutes into extra time.

The match seemed over until Abby Wambach claimed heroine status with an equaliser deep into injury time, with USA then prevailing 5-3 on penalties.

Following the early goal USA maintained their bright start with Wambach narrowly missing with a header from a smart Christie Rampone free-kick.

Brazil finally started to come into the contest with Aline’s header hitting the side-netting from Marta’s well-taken corner.

Marta then went on a lung-bursting 80 metre run only for Rampone to maintain pressure on the Brazilian, who fired over.

Seven minutes before the interval came Brazil’s best chance of the half as Fabiana’s shot from a narrow angle hit the crossbar.

The second 45 minutes commenced in muted fashion before bursting into life midway through the half. Marta was brought down in the penalty area, with USA suffering a double blow as defender Rachel Buehler was dismissed. Cristiane saw her penalty saved only for a retake to be ordered, and this time Marta coolly converted.

Extra time commenced perfectly for Brazil as Marta scored another high-quality goal worthy of the world’s greatest stage. The five-time FIFA World Player of the Year collected a pass from the left and deftly flicked it home via the far post.

Despite playing with ten players, USA continued to press at every opportunity and finally got their reward two minutes into injury time as a superb Megan Rapinoe cross found Wambach, who stretched to head home just inside the post.

The only failure in the penalty shootout was Brazil defender Daiane, who saw her effort saved by Hope Solo, allowing Alex Krieger to convert for a famous USA victory.

Player of the match: Hope Solo (USA)

QUOTES

Brazil coach Kleiton Lima


It was a tough, close-fought match. We knew before the game that USA are a very strong side. Our team may be a little more creative, but we just couldn't impose ourselves today. We wanted to get forward and hit them on the counter, but unfortunately we conceded another goal towards the end of extra time, which took it to penalties. I still think we've had a good World Cup, even if ultimately we didn't achieve our goal.
USA coach Pia Sundhage

It's hard to put all the feelings that are going through my head right now into words. I come from Sweden, but this core American value of bringing the best out of one another is infectious. I'm very proud and happy to be coach of the USA.
USA goalkeeper and Player of the Match Hope Solo

What I love about this team is the fact that you can feel the energy and trust - even after the defeat against Sweden. That's the really special thing about this group. Even when we were a player down and a goal behind in extra time, you sensed that something was going to happen. The team kept fighting. You can't teach that. It's a feeling - and we play with that feeling.

THE DAY REPLAYED 
 
The two quarter-finals of the FIFA Women’s World Cup Germany 2011™ played on Sunday proved to be a real test of nerves for players and fans alike. After both France and Japan needed an additional 30 minutes to qualify on Saturday, it was the turn of USA to draw out the suspense by taking their game against Brazil into extra time. And just like Les Bleues, their upcoming semi-final opponents, the North Americans required penalty kicks to see off their resolute rivals.


Again inspired by an impressive Marta, Brazil may look back with regret on this loss, during which they contrived to score an own goal in the opening minutes, fail to properly capitalise on a second-half numerical advantage, and concede an equaliser in the final seconds of extra time.

Earlier on in the day, Sweden saw off Australia to qualify for the last four in more straightforward circumstances, as their challengers were unable to live up to their status of dark horses. Under a scorching afternoon sun, the Scandinavians put on a display of composure and maturity, scoring from sharp, well-constructed moves, and taking full advantage of some of the errors present in the inexperienced Australians’ play.

The Matildas can nevertheless be proud of what they have achieved, recording double the number of victories at this year’s event than they had in all of their previous FIFA Women’s World Cup appearances put together. Their one previous win had come four years ago at China 2007, where they also fell at the quarter-final stage.

Results

Sweden 3-1 Australia

Brazil 2-2 USA (aet, USA win 5-3 on penalties)




Goal of the day


Brazil-USA, Abby Wambach 120+2'


Deep in injury time of extra time, the Americans, with just ten players and trailing 2-1 following Marta’s second goal of the match, looked to be down and out. But with virtually the last kick of the ball, Megan Rapinoe hoisted a deep cross into the box that appeared to be heading straight into the gloves of Andrea in the Brazil goal. The Canarinhas' keeper miscalculated her dive, however, missing the ball by the slightest of margins and allowing Abby Wambach to thump a header into the back of the net for her second goal of the competition. The unlikely equaliser saved the United States from defeat and eventually propelled them into the semi-finals, with the help of a penalty shootout.
Memorable moments


Lively Lotta

The Australians were twice found guilty of defensive naivety in their quarter-final clash today. Knocking the ball back to the goalkeeper is a dangerous game to play when faced with a forward with the instincts of Sweden’s Lotta Schelin. When the Lyon striker failed to punish Collette McCallum’s error early on in the match, this should perhaps have served as a warning for the Antipodean side. The second time around the Swede would make no mistake, pouncing on Kim Carroll’s wayward pass to round the keeper and score her country’s third goal of the day.
Record collection

The 28th meeting between Brazil and USA was an amazing encounter that swung this way and that. It was also a match that saw two new FIFA Women’s World Cup records set. The first came right at the start when, with under two minutes on the clock, the unfortunate Daiane scored the quickest own goal in the history of the tournament. The second now belongs to Abby Wambach who, with an equaliser in the 122nd minute of the game, scored the latest goal the event has ever seen.

The stat

14 – The number of FIFA Women’s World Cup goals scored by Brazil star Marta, whose two quarter-final strikes against USA saw her draw level with Birgit Prinz’s all-time tournament record. This achievement may offer the South American some measure of consolation, following her team’s dramatic defeat by USA. A little further down the list on 11, Abby Wambach would appear to be the only player in with a possibility of equalling or surpassing this total at Germany 2011.
The quote

“Things just fell into place for my goal. It was a bit of a relief for me, because Sweden’s first two goals stemmed from moves down my side, so I kind of owed it to my team-mates. But what an incredible feeling it was to score, especially when you play at the back and you don’t get that many shooting chances,” Ellyse Perry, Australia right-back and scorer of her nation’s goal against Sweden
Next up

Wednesday 13 July (semi-finals)

France-USA, Monchengladbach, 18.00 CET

Japan-Sweden, Frankfurt, 20.45 CET


BRAZIL VS USA RESULT AND STATISTICS
 
2:2 a.e.t. (1:1, 0:1) 3:5 PSO


MARTA (68' PEN 92')

DAIANE (2' OG)

Abby WAMBACH (120'+2)

Match 28 - Group Dresden

Rudolf-Harbig-Stadion Dresden Referee: Jacqui MELKSHAM (AUS)
 
Brazil - USA2:2 a.e.t. (1:1, 0:1) 3:5 PSOMatch Date Venue / Stadium Time Attendance


28 10 July 2011 Dresden / Rudolf-Harbig-Stadion Dresden 17:30 25598



Goals scored

DAIANE (BRA) 2' Own goal, MARTA (BRA) 68' Penalty goal, MARTA (BRA) 92', Abby WAMBACH (USA) 120'+2

Brazil

Line-up

[1] ANDREIA (GK)

[2] MAURINE

[3] DAIANE [Y]

[4] ALINE (C)

[6] ROSANA (-85')

[7] ESTER

[8] FORMIGA (-113')

[10] MARTA

[11] CRISTIANE

[13] ERIKA

[14] FABIANA

Substitute(s)

[12] BARBARA (GK)

[21] THAIS (GK)

[5] RENATA COSTA [Y] (+113')

[9] BEATRIZ

[15] FRANCIELLE [Y] (+85')

[16] ELAINE

[17] DANIELE

[18] THAIS GUEDES

[19] GRAZIELLE

[20] ROSEANE

Coach

Kleiton LIMA (BRA)USA

Line-up

[1] Hope SOLO (GK)

[3] Christie RAMPONE (C)

[6] Amy LE PEILBET [Y]

[7] Shannon BOXX

[8] Amy RODRIGUEZ (-72')

[9] Heather O REILLY (-108')

[10] Carli LLOYD

[11] Alex KRIEGER

[12] Lauren CHENEY (-55')

[19] Rachel BUEHLER

[20] Abby WAMBACH [Y]

Substitute(s)

[18] Nicole BARNHART (GK)

[21] Jill LOYDEN (GK)

[2] Heather MITTS

[4] Becky SAUERBRUNN

[5] Kelley O HARA

[13] Alex MORGAN (+72')

[14] Stephanie COX

[15] Megan RAPINOE (+55')

[16] Lori LINDSEY

[17] Tobin HEATH (+108')

Coach

Pia SUNDHAGE (SWE)Cautions

Carli LLOYD (USA) 29', ALINE (BRA) 44', MARTA (BRA) 45', Hope SOLO (USA) 67', Megan RAPINOE (USA) 90'+1, MAURINE (BRA) 112', Shannon BOXX (USA) 113', ERIKA (BRA) 117'

Sent off

Rachel BUEHLER (USA) 65'

Penalty Shoot-out



CRISTIANE 11GoalMARTA 10GoalDAIANE 3SavedFRANCIELLE 15GoalShannon BOXX 7GoalCarli LLOYD 10GoalAbby WAMBACH 20GoalMegan RAPINOE 15GoalAlex KRIEGER 11GoalBrazil (BRA) Statistics USA (USA)

16 Shots 14

6 Shots on goal 5

2 Goals Scored 2

19 Fouls Committed 17

15 Fouls Suffered 17

6 Corner kicks 11

1 Free kicks Shots (scored) 4

1 / 1 Penalty Kicks (Goals/Shots) 0 / 0

2 Offsides 4

1 Own Goals 0

4 Yellow cards 4

0 Second yellow card and red card 0

0 Red Cards 1

33 Actual playing time 34

50% Possession (%) 50%



a.e.t.: After extra time (C): Captain PSO: Penalty Shoot-out

GK: Goalkeeper N: Not eligible to play I: Injured

Y: Misses next match if booked Pos: Positions A: Absent

Play-by-Play The penalty shoot-out is over.


5 KRIEGER (USA) successfully converts the penalty!

5 FRANCIELLE (Brazil) successfully converts the penalty!

5 RAPINOE (USA) successfully converts the penalty!

5 DAIANE R. (Brazil) sees her penalty saved by the goalkeeper.

5 WAMBACH (USA) successfully converts the penalty!

5 MARTA (Brazil) successfully converts the penalty!

5 LLOYD (USA) successfully converts the penalty!

5 CRISTIANE (Brazil) successfully converts the penalty!

5 BOXX (USA) successfully converts the penalty!

The penalty shoot-out is about to begin.

The referee blows for the end of the second period of extra time.

120' +4 32 The goalkeeper of USA pulls off a save.

120' +4 8 A player from Brazil sees her effort hit the target.

120' +2 3 (2 - 2) WAMBACH (USA) scores!!

120' +1 7 USA tries a shot on goal, but it is off-target.

119' 32 The goalkeeper of USA pulls off a save.

119' 8 A player from Brazil sees her effort hit the target.

118' 7 USA strike their free-kick wide.

118' 11 A player from Brazil commits a foul.

117' 1 ERIKA (Brazil) is yellow carded.

117' 10 USA take the corner kick.

114' 10 USA swing in the corner.

113' 7 Brazil strike their free-kick wide.

113' 4 RENATA C. (in) comes off the bench to replace FORMIGA (out) (Brazil)

113' 1 BOXX (USA) is booked by the referee.

113' 11 USA are penalised after committing a foul.

112' 1 MAURINE (Brazil) is cautioned.

111' 11 USA concede a free-kick following a challenge on a player from Brazil.

111' 6 USA has a shot blocked.

108' 4 HEATH (in) comes off the bench to replace O'REILLY (out) (USA)

108' 7 USA strike their free-kick wide.

107' 11 A player from Brazil illegally handles the ball.

The referee signals the start of the second period of extra time.

The referee blows for the end of the first period of extra time.

105' +1 9 A player from Brazil is adjudged to be in an offside position.

104' 10 Brazil take the corner kick.

103' 7 Brazil tries a shot on goal, but it is off-target.

101' 9 Brazil are ruled offside.

101' 10 Brazil swing in the corner.

100' 10 Brazil take the corner kick.

98' 11 A player from Brazil commits a foul.

98' 10 USA swing in the corner.

98' 32 The goalkeeper of Brazil pulls off a save.

98' 8 A player from USA sees her effort hit the target.

97' 10 USA take the corner kick.

96' 10 USA swing in the corner.

95' 11 Brazil are penalised after committing a foul.

93' 10 USA take the corner kick.

92' 3 (2 - 1) MARTA (Brazil) scores!!

91' 9 A player from USA is adjudged to be in an offside position.

The referee signals the start of the first period of extra time.

End of regular time - extra time to follow...

90' +4 6 USA has a shot blocked.

90' +3 32 The goalkeeper of Brazil pulls off a save.

90' +3 8 A player from USA sees her effort hit the target.

90' +1 1 RAPINOE (USA) is yellow carded.

90' 11 Brazil concede a free-kick following a challenge on a player from USA.

89' 11 A player from Brazil commits a foul.

88' 11 USA are penalised after committing a foul.

86' 11 Brazil concede a free-kick following a challenge on a player from USA.

85' 4 FRANCIELLE (in) comes off the bench to replace ROSANA (out) (Brazil)

83' 10 Brazil swing in the corner.

82' 10 USA take the corner kick.

82' 6 USA has a shot blocked.

82' 10 USA swing in the corner.

81' 6 Brazil has a shot blocked.

78' 9 USA are ruled offside.

76' 10 USA take the corner kick.

75' 7 USA tries a shot on goal, but it is off-target.

72' 4 MORGAN (in) comes off the bench to replace RODRIGUEZ (out) (USA)

70' 6 Brazil has a shot blocked.

68' 3 (1 - 1) MARTA (Brazil) successfully converts the penalty!

67' 1 SOLO (USA) is booked by the referee.

65' 2 BUEHLER (USA) is sent off!

65' 11 A player from Brazil is fouled inside the box by a player from USA.

65' 7 Brazil tries a shot on goal, but it is off-target.

63' 7 So close! USA hit the free-kick against the crossbar.

63' 11 A player from Brazil commits a foul.

60' 32 The goalkeeper of USA pulls off a save.

60' 8 A player from Brazil sees her effort hit the target.

59' 11 A player from Brazil illegally handles the ball.

59' 10 Brazil swing in the corner.

57' 11 Brazil are penalised after committing a foul.

56' 9 A player from USA is adjudged to be in an offside position.

55' 4 RAPINOE (in) comes off the bench to replace CHENEY (out) (USA)

51' 11 A player from USA illegally handles the ball.

49' 11 USA concede a free-kick following a challenge on a player from Brazil.

47' 11 A player from USA commits a foul.

The second half kicks off.

The referee brings the first half to an end.

45' +2 11 USA are penalised after committing a foul.

45' +1 11 Brazil concede a free-kick following a challenge on a player from USA.

45' +1 11 A player from USA commits a foul.

45' 1 MARTA (Brazil) is cautioned.

44' 1 ALINE (Brazil) is yellow carded.

44' 11 Brazil are penalised after committing a foul.

43' 32 The goalkeeper of Brazil pulls off a save.

43' 8 A player from USA sees her effort hit the target.

38' 7 So close! A player from Brazil rattles the crossbar.

37' 11 A player from USA illegally handles the ball.

36' 32 The goalkeeper of USA pulls off a save.

36' 8 A player from Brazil sees her effort hit the target.

34' 11 USA concede a free-kick following a challenge on a player from Brazil.

31' 11 A player from Brazil commits a foul.

29' 1 LLOYD (USA) is booked by the referee.

29' 11 USA are penalised after committing a foul.

27' 7 Brazil tries a shot on goal, but it is off-target.

26' 9 USA are ruled offside.

25' 11 Brazil concede a free-kick following a challenge on a player from USA.

23' 7 Brazil tries a shot on goal, but it is off-target.

23' 11 A player from Brazil commits a foul.

22' 7 Brazil tries a shot on goal, but it is off-target.

22' 10 Brazil take the corner kick.

21' 6 Brazil has a shot blocked.

20' 11 USA are penalised after committing a foul.

19' 11 USA concede a free-kick following a challenge on a player from Brazil.

19' 11 A player from Brazil commits a foul.

17' 7 USA tries a shot on goal, but it is off-target.

15' 11 USA are penalised after committing a foul.

12' 10 USA swing in the corner.

12' 10 USA take the corner kick.

12' 32 The goalkeeper of Brazil pulls off a save.

12' 8 USA hit their free-kick on target.

11' 11 Brazil concede a free-kick following a challenge on a player from USA.

9' 11 A player from USA commits a foul.

5' 11 Brazil are penalised after committing a foul.

4' 11 USA concede a free-kick following a challenge on a player from Brazil.

2' 3 (0 - 1) DAIANE R. (Brazil) scores an own goal!!

1' 11 A player from Brazil commits a foul.

The match kicks off.

WOMEN'S SOCCER WORLD CUP 2011: Victory for Sweden and disaster for United States and Norway

Victory for Sweden and disaster for United States and Norway


Matchday 10 is one two former winners of the FIFA Women's World Cup Germany 2011™, namely Norway and USA, will want to forget. A pair of 2-1 defeats, to Australia and Sweden respectively, left them both suffering different fates. For Norway, it was the first time they had failed to qualify for the last eight in their past eight FIFA women's tournaments, while USA lost their proud unbeaten record in the group stage.

For Australia and Brazil, however, there were reasons to cheer. By virtue of their 3-0 win over Equatorial Guinea, the South Americans won their group for the fourth time in a row and, just like in 2007, they neither dropped a point nor conceded a goal. The Matildas, meanwhile, have reached the quarter-finals for the second successive time, gaining one more point in the group stage than four years ago. Today’s results complete the quarter final line-up, with Sweden meeting Australia in Augsburg and USA and Brazil squaring off in Dresden.

Results

Equatorial Guinea 0-3 Brazil

Australia 2-1 Norway

Sweden 2–1 USA

Korea DPR 0-0 Colombia

Goal of the day

Australia-Norway, Kyah Simon ‘57

Compared to yesterday, which boasted candidates for the Goal of the Tournament, stunning strikes on Matchday 10 were pretty much non-existent. But there may be no goal more dramatic at Germany 2011 than Simon's equaliser for Australia against Norway. Just 63 seconds after Elise Thorsnes had given her side the lead, Tom Sermanni’s team responded in the best possible fashion. Lisa De Vanna won possession near the corner flag, before pulling the ball back perfectly for Simon to side-foot home. It was the second-fastest equaliser at a FIFA Women's World Cup, level with Australian Dianne Alagich, who put through her own net to equalise for Russia at USA 2003. The quickest equaliser at a FIFA Women’s World Cup was scored by Nkiru Okosieme, who netted for Nigeria a matter of seconds after the Americans had scored against them 12 years ago.

Memorable moments

Me and my shadow

Coaches are always pleased when players follow the instructions to the letter. Therefore, Marcello Frigerio must have been delighted with Bruna for the job she performed on Marta during the first half of Equatorial Guinea's match with Brazil. The 27-year-old defender stuck to the five-time FIFA Women's World Player of the Year like glue, including chasing her in the South Americans' own area. Shortly before half-time, Marta went to Kleiton Lima to get some instructions and Bruna went too. Perhaps understandably, the two Brazilians decided not to talk!

Third time unlucky

Spare a thought for Ingrid Hjelmseth. Not only was she born in the same era as Norwegian great Bente Nordby, who relegated her to the bench for many years, but injury ruled her out of the past two FIFA Women's World Cups. Although she was fit and first choice for this campaign, she landed awkwardly on her left ankle after making a routine catch and required treatment. Although she was able to continue for the final 15 minutes of the first half, she was replaced at half-time by Erika Skarbo.

Dance and deliberance

Following stand-in captain Nilla Fischer’s 35th minute free-kick, which deflected off the unfortunate Amy LePeilbet, the Swedes performs their trademark celebration of Germany 2011: the dance routine of Moussier Tombola’s Logobitombo inside the penalty area. Just a few yards away, USA veteran Shannon Boxx was rallying the stunned Stars and Stripes. To all those in Wolfsburg it was a reminder that football is indeed a game of mixed emotions.

The stat

17 – Before this evening's game, USA had never lost any of their 17 group games at the FIFA Women's World Cup. Indeed, they had always finished at their section’s summit with a record of 15 wins and two draws. However, Sweden's two first-half goals condemned them to enter uncharted waters and a tricky looking quarter-final clash with Brazil in the process.

The quote

“I came off my line to collect the ball from Servet [Uzunlar], but because I was close to the edge of the box, I could collect it with my hands so I tried to use my head. It didn't work! Because I couldn't score a goal myself, I'm thanking God for the strikers that we have who were able to put the ball in the back of the net! Football is a funny game sometimes,” Melissa Barbieri, Australia goalkeeper and captain, explaining the circumstances which led to Norway’s goal in Leverkusen.

Next up

Saturday 9 July

England-France, Leverkusen, 18.00

Germany-Japan, Wolfsburg, 20.45


GERMANY VS JAPAN HUNTING FOR A BERTH ON SEMIFINALS
Two nations with very different FIFA Women's World Cup™ pedigree, Germany and Japan, will meet in Wolfsburg’s Arena Im Allerpark hunting a berth in the final four at Germany 2011. Germany have only missed qualifying for the FIFA Women’s World Cup semi-finals once; that being in the 1999 tournament.


Conversely, Japan have reached the last eight just once, which was back at Sweden 1995. Indeed prior to this tournament the Nadeshiko had won just three matches in their five previous appearances among the world elite.

The game

Germany – Japan, Saturday 9 July, Wolfsburg, 20.45 CET

The stakes

The winner of this contest will face either Sweden or Australia in Frankfurt, and will leave them only 180 minutes away from FIFA Women’s World Cup glory. Germany will of course have the benefit of home crowd support; a backing which seems to be growing in intensity with every match they play.

Unsurprisingly, history heavily favours Germany who are undefeated in their eight meetings with Japan, recording seven wins. However the last match-up, played in July 2009 in Mannheim, finished 0-0.

Japan have yet to score a goal in three defeats against Germany in the FIFA Women’s World Cup. Additionally the Nadeshiko have never defeated a European nation at the tournament, losing eight and drawing just once. However Japan have crept up the international pecking order in recent years, claiming a number of significant scalps, and they were the seeded team in Group B at Germany 2011.

Japan will be hoping that Homare Sawa returns to the kind of goalscoring form which saw the inspirational midfielder score Germany 2011's only treble, in the second group match against Mexico. Now in her fifth tournament, Sawa is set to become the second most-capped Asian player on the world stage with 16 appearances, four behind China’s Sun Wen.

The match will be particularly special for Kozue Ando and Yuki Nagasato who both featured prominently in the most recent Bundesliga season, turning out for Duisburg and Turbine Potsdam respectively.

The stat

15 – Germany are unbeaten in their last 15 matches in the FIFA Women’s World Cup, claiming an incredible 14 wins and one draw during that period. Their last defeat dates back to the 1999 quarter-final, where the European powerhouse suffered a 3-2 defeat against USA who went on to win the tournament on home soil.

The words

“You could see we wanted to win at all costs (in the final group match against France) and now we've got the confidence to face a very strong Japan side in the quarter-finals.” Silvia Neid, Germany coach.


Three and easy for Brazil, now in QF against United States 

An improved second-half showing from group winners Brazil saw them defeat Equatorial Guinea 3-0 at the FIFA Women’s World Cup Stadium in Frankfurt.

Brazil had a great chance to score with two minutes on the clock. A free-kick whipped into the box by Marta almost found both Cristiane and Erika who had made great runs, but the ball flew agonisingly between them.

The South Americans were the dominant side were enjoying a huge amount of possession. However, they were constantly let down by their wayward passing and poor anticipation. The order unforced errors gave the Nzalang Nacional confidence they grew in stature during the first half.

Indeed, an inswinging free-kick almost saw Equatorial Guinea take the lead. Anonman turned sharply to deceive her marker Ester and pounce on Dorine’s set piece, but Andreia came out to smother her goalbound effort.

Marta tried to score straight from the corner in the 27th minute, but Miriam at full stretch was able to palm the ball away. The first half petered out as a contest after that, but Brazil emerged from the from the break with more dedication.

They took the lead four minutes after the restart when Maurine’s cross-cum-shot was blocked by Miriam into the path of Erika who played the ball over Ana Cristina volleyed it home with her left foot. Six minutes later they doubled their advantage when Marta show powered down the left wing and delivered a perfect cross to the near post. Cristiane outpaced marker Dulcia to nip in ahead with her right boot.

Equatorial Guinea had their chances too. Carolina’s free-kick from 30 yards went narrowly wide and Anonman’s went even closer. Just as it seemed that the Africans may grab a consolation, Brazil scored the third of the game when Bruna far smarter in the box and from the resulting penalty Cristiane made no mistake.

Kleiton Lima’s side will now meet USA Dresden on Sunday 10 July.

Player of the match: Erika (BRA)

WOMEN'S SOCCER FIFA WORLD CUP: USA and Sweden got their victories

WOMEN'S SOCCER FIFA WORLD CUP, DAY REPLAYED

– There were wins for the favourites on the third day of the FIFA Women’s World Cup™ as world No1 USA defeated Korea DPR, and Sweden saw off Colombia. However, once again the theme of the day was the closeness of competition in front of buoyant crowds enjoying warm German sunshine. It has been a recurring premise and after three days of competition, the tournament would have seen six matches completed without a two-goal winning margin, but for USA’s second clinching goal against Korea DPR.


The two-time world champions made their much-anticipated debut at Germany 2011, and the Stars and Stripes were made to work extremely hard before overcoming a typically resolute Korea DPR in Dresden. Lauren Cheney broke the stalemate nine minutes after the interval, before Rachel Buehler sealed the victory with around a quarter of an hour to play. Sweden found tournament debutants Colombia to be in equally stubborn mood although the European heavyweights spurned a number of goalscoring opportunities. Jessica Landstrom was the major culprit with a notable first-half miss, only to make up for it with a second-half conversion after being set up by the always impressive Lotta Schelin.


Results

Colombia 0-1 Sweden

USA 2-0 Korea DPR

Goal of the day

USA – Korea DPR, Lauren Cheney, 54

While not having the spectacular appeal of some of the goals seen in the opening two days, Lauren Cheney’s headed strike to break the deadlock against Korea DPR was meritorious in its own right. Abby Wambach created space on the left flank before delivering a telling cross onto the head of Cheney who, having lost her marker, was able to expertly direct her header back across goal and inside the far post.
Memorable moments

Well supported Boxx

USA’s veteran midfielder Shannon Boxx seemingly enjoyed the support of her own fan club in Dresden today. The veteran of two FIFA Women’s World Cups enjoyed the support of around 20 people holding a banner and cheering her every move. Perhaps her 34th birthday tomorrow also helped Boxx get through 90 torrid minutes in warm conditions at the Rudolf-Harbig-Stadion.

Debutants singing up storm

Colombia helped throw off their FIFA Women’s World Cup debutant nerves with some rhythmic singing and swaying in the tunnel prior to the match against Sweden. Skipper Natalia Gaitan led the way as the team went through their repertoire of Colombian songs which they have adapted to their own lyrics, however, the defender was far more reticent when asked for a reprise by the media after the match.

The stat

12 – The FIFA Women’s World Cup would have seen six consecutive matches decided by a margin of one goal or less for the first time, but for Rachel Buehler’s second goal for USA 14 minutes from full time against Korea DPR. Only once before had five consecutive matches had such close results, which was 12 years ago at the 1999 edition of the tournament in USA. Germany 2011 had previously seen four one-goal victories and a draw until this evening’s match in Dresden.

The quote

“The atmosphere was really great and you could really feel the support of the fans on the pitch. We want to get as far as possible in this tournament but we have a very hard group so we have to be fully focused for each game.” Sara Thunebro, Sweden defender

Today's Games
Wednesday 29 June 2011

Norway – Equatorial Guinea, 15.00 CET, Augsburg

Brazil – Australia, 18.15 CET, Moenchengladbach

USA made their Germany 2011 debut with a solid victory over perennial Asian challengers Korea DPR. What did you think of the Americans' debut and what are their chances of winning a third FIFA Women’s World Cup?

SWEDEN 1 COLOMBIA 0

Jessica Landstrom’s second-half goal proved to be the difference between Colombia and Sweden in Group C’s opening encounter in Leverkusen, but the scoreline failed to accurately reflect the Scandinavian’s dominance.


For anyone who watched this game in full the overriding question would be, 'how did it take Sweden 57 minutes to break the deadlock?' As early as the third minute they had a golden opportunity to take the lead but Colombia captain Natalia Gaitan was on hand to clear Lotta Schelin’s tame shot off the line.

Seven minutes later, Caroline Seger showed good skill to find Schelin in the box, but once again the Lyon forward was to be denied by her old foe Gaitan on the line, ably assisted by Andrea Peralta. Sweden's other striker Landstrom was also having a bad day and somehow contrived to fire over after being well picked out by Schelin.

The Scandinavians were completely dominating possession and play and were also giving Sandra Sepulveda in the Colombia goal some uncomfortable moments from set pieces. As the half wore on the South Americans did well to contain the Swedes, but they also struggled to create any chances of their own.

In temperatures of 32 degrees Celsius, he second half was much the same as the first. Ten minutes after the restart, Schelin was forced to watch on in agony as her shot, under pressure from Peduzine, beat the keeper but trickled across the face of the goal and wide. That chance was enough to make Sweden coach Thomas Dennerby rest his head on the top of the dugout in frustration, but a minute later he was dancing with delight.

Schelin showed great trickery down the right flank and her low cross which beat the keeper was easily prodded into the net by Landstrom’s left foot. After that, Sweden could and should have scored more. Missed chances came and went. Therese Sjogran opted to shoot herself rather than square the ball to the well-placed Landstrom and impressive substitute Sofia Jakobsson brought a smart save out of Sepulveda.

In response, Colombia rarely threatened and two dipping shots from Carmen Rodallega in the second half which narrowly missed the target were their only chance of note during the 90 minutes.

USA 2 NORTH KOREA 0

Second-half goals from Lauren Cheney and Rachel Buehler helped get USA off to the best possible start in Group C with a 2-0 win over Korea DPR in Dresden.


Pia Sundhage’s side were made to work hard for the three points by their spirited opponents, whose slick passing and pace ensured a busy evening for the US back four in the fourth meeting between these two teams at a FIFA Women’s World Cup.

There was very little to separate both sides in the opening half. After a tight start to the game, the first real chance came in the 11th minute for USA when Abby Wambach supplied Cheney inside the box, but her powerful right-footed shot was straight at Hong Myong Hui.

The North Koreans' best attacks were coming down the USA left, through Song Jong Sun and Kim Su Gyong, but Cheney and Amy Le Peilbet proved to be worthy opponents to limit them to half-chances.

USA went close again following a neat interchange between Heather O’Reilly and Wambach. Carli Lloyd was the grateful recipient of the chance, but she scuffed her effort and it was easy for the goalkeeper.

Arguably the chance of the half fell to the Asians in the 35th minute. Under pressure from Le Peilbet, Kim Su Gyong fired in a shot from a tight angle which Hope Solo did well to turn around the post. A few minutes later, Song Jong Sun fired a dangerous ball into the box, but neither Yun Hyong Hi nor Ri Ye Gyong could provide a finishing touch.

As so often happened during the half, play switched immediately to the other end and, in almost a carbon copy of the Koreans' earlier chance, Amy Rodriguez's ball was inches away from connecting with the stretching Wambach.

The opening minutes of the second half set the tone for what followed in the second 45 minutes. Wambach was close to opening the scoring, again just failing to connect with a pass, but vocal Americans in the crowd did not have long to wait to celebrate.

In the 54th minute, Ali Krieger dribbled down the left and found Wambach, who cut inside and crossed with her right foot. Cheney soared, connected and USA were in front.

Korea DPR almost had the perfect response five minutes later when Ri Ye Gyong’s shot from distance had the goalkeeper beaten, but clipped the top of the crossbar.

As the half wore on, the physical intensity of the game appeared to be taking its toll on the Koreans and in the 76th minute USA doubled their advantage when Buehler’s low shot crept just inside the post and beyond the outstretched arm of Hong.

Although the US had a goal disallowed for a foul on the goalkeeper late on, chances were at a premium in the closing stages, but Korea DPR almost grabbed a consolation when Ri Un Hyang powered a header wide from Jo Yun Mi’s corner.

RACHEL BUEHLER, ONE OF THE SHINING U.S. STARS

Rachel Buehler was wearing a bright smile when she faced reporters after USA's 2–0 victory over DPR Korea in their first group fixture. Her upbeat mood was prompted not merely by the victory, nor the terrific support both teams received from the good-sized crowd, but also because she had scored her side's second goal. Strikers finding the net is hardly a rarity, but Buehler plies her trade in defence, and goals are not really her stock in trade.


It was the 25-year-old's first appearance at the FIFA Women's World Cup™, and she freely admitted to an attack of the nerves. “I was very tense in the first half, but I just had to get on with it. I grew in confidence the longer the game went on, and I thought it was a pretty robust performance by the end," Buehler told FIFA.com. A solid defensive display against the powerful Asians was then crowned as her goal sealed the points.

However, the likeable player was keen to play down her own contribution to the win, preferring to emphasise a promising team display. “The Koreans pushed us all the way in the first half. They had some good moments, and we did too. But we had more possession in the second half and we were more dangerous on the attack. We steadily improved as the game went on. We played with a lot of heart and determination."

GERMANY: Ready for the next challenge

FIFA Women's World Cup™ holders Germany meet African champions Nigeria in Frankfurt on Thursday evening, and although it is only the second match for both nations, there is already plenty at stake. The hosts are hoping to continue riding the wave of euphoria currently sweeping the nation, but the Super Falcons urgently need a good result to make up for their poor start to the tournament. Last year's FIFA U-20 Women's World Cup provided an appetiser for Thursday evening's clash, as the German juniors beat their Nigerian counterparts 2–0 in the final. The meeting between the seniors could well be decisive in determining the final Group A outcome.


The game

Germany-Nigeria, Thursday 30 June 2011, Frankfurt, 8.45 pm (local time)

The stakes

The teams approach Thursday's clash in contrasting moods. Heartened by their 2–1 opening-day victory over Canada, and guaranteed the support of another huge and partisan home crowd, the Germans will be brimming with confidence as they pursue a second victory and top spot in the group. On the other hand, the Nigerians’ 1–0 defeat to France in their first match means they must go in search of points against the favourites for the trophy. That should make for an exciting game, as Ngozi Uche’s team cannot afford simply to defend and hope to come away with a draw.

Birgit Prinz and company thrashed the Nigerians 8–0 on a bitterly cold November evening in Leverkusen last year, on a night when pretty much everything went right for the home team. Nevertheless, Silvia Neid and her players know they will face far more motivated opponents this week. The Super Falcons are a robust, dynamic team always capable of putting their opponents under pressure, whereas the Germans will be looking to improve on their display in the Opening Match, after Neid expressed dissatisfaction with her team's passing in the meeting with Canada.

The stat

13 - No other player at the FIFA Women's World Cup 2011 scored as many goals in qualifying for the finals as Perpetua Nkwocha. The 35-year-old midfielder found the net on 13 occasions.

The words

"I think we'll see a very different Germany against Nigeria. We'll impose our authority on the match from the start until the end, and that'll give us a good chance of the three points," Germany defender Saskia Bartusiak

"We certainly have a chance of making the World Cup Final, and maybe even winning it," Nigeria keeper Precious Dede


The player praised the crowd’s passion and exuberance, citing it as a factor behind the American team's success. “Dresden was magnificent, and the atmosphere in the stadium was amazing, with so many spectators and so much support," she said. But for all the post-match delight, Buehler and her team-mates will not waste time basking in their victory, as the focus now turns to forthcoming opponents Colombia.

“We weren't able to watch the match between Colombia and Sweden, because we were totally focused on our game,” Buehler told FIFA.com, “but it will be very interesting to watch that match later on, so we can pick up some initial impressions. Colombia have a lot of talent, but as Pia [Sundhage] has told us all along, every team at the World Cup is very good. I know Colombia have a lot of talented players and skilled individuals. They'll be very dangerous."