The 2011 FIFA Women’s World Cup saw a thrilling encounter between Japan and the United States in the final. This match was a clash of styles, with Japan’s technical and possession-based approach going up against the United States’ physical and direct style of play.
A Brief History of the Rivalry
The rivalry between Japan and the United States in women’s football dates back to the 1990s. Both teams have been consistently ranked among the best in the world, and their encounters have often been closely contested. The 2011 World Cup final was just the latest chapter in this exciting rivalry.
The Match: A Tight Contest
The match itself was a tense affair. Japan started brightly and dominated possession, but the United States were able to hold their own defensively. The first half ended goalless, but the second half saw the action heat up.
Japan Takes the Lead
In the 54th minute, Japan took the lead through a goal by Nahomi Kawasumi. The goal was a testament to Japan’s technical prowess, as they worked the ball through the US defense with precise passes.
The Equalizer and Extra Time
The United States were able to equalize in the 81st minute through a goal by Alex Morgan. The goal was a result of their physicality and direct play, as they were able to break through the Japanese defense with a quick counter-attack. The match went into extra time, but neither team was able to find a winner.
The Penalty Shootout: Japan Wins!
The match was ultimately decided by a penalty shootout. Japan’s goalkeeper, Ayumi Kaihori, was the hero of the shootout, saving two American penalties. Japan won the shootout 3-1 and lifted the World Cup trophy.
A Legacy of Inspiration
The 2011 FIFA Women’s World Cup final between Japan and the United States was a thrilling and memorable match. It was a clash of styles, with Japan’s technical prowess and the United States’ physicality, but it was ultimately Japan that emerged victorious. This win inspired a generation of young footballers in Japan, and it helped to raise the profile of women’s football in the country.
FAQ
1. What was the final score of the match?
The match ended in a 2-2 draw after extra time. Japan won the penalty shootout 3-1.
2. Who scored for Japan?
Nahomi Kawasumi scored the opening goal for Japan in the 54th minute.
3. Who scored for the United States?
Alex Morgan scored the equalizer for the United States in the 81st minute.
4. Who was the hero of the penalty shootout?
Japan’s goalkeeper, Ayumi Kaihori, was the hero of the shootout, saving two American penalties.
5. What was the significance of the victory for Japan?
Japan’s victory in the 2011 World Cup final was a historic moment for Japanese women’s football. It was the first time that a Japanese team had won a major international tournament. The win inspired a generation of young footballers and helped to raise the profile of women’s football in the country.
6. How did this match contribute to the rivalry between Japan and the United States?
The 2011 World Cup final was just the latest chapter in the rivalry between Japan and the United States in women’s football. This match was a thrilling and closely contested affair, and it further cemented the rivalry as one of the most exciting and competitive in the world.
7. What other notable matches have Japan and the United States played in women’s football?
Japan and the United States have played many memorable matches over the years, including the 1999 World Cup semifinal, the 2003 World Cup quarterfinal, and the 2015 World Cup final. These matches have all been highly competitive and have helped to further the rivalry between these two footballing giants.
Looking for more insights into the world of women’s football? Visit our website for more articles and information on Japan’s journey to World Cup glory, the historical rivalry between Japan and the United States, and the growth of women’s football in Japan.
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