Japan, US into FIFA Women's World Cup final
Updated: 2011-07-14 10:45
(Xinhua)
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 Japan's players carry a poster after the end of their Women's World Cup semi-final soccer match against Sweden in Frankfurt July 13, 2011.[Photo/Agencies] |
BERLIN - Japan and the United States roared into the FIFA Women's World Cup final on Wednesday.
Japan rallied to beat Sweden 3-1 in Frankfurt while earlier the United States eased past France 3-1 in Moenchengladbach.
"In Japan, it is early in the morning, but nevertheless there were a lot of people watching back home, which gave us strength and courage," said coach Norio Sasaki.
Josefine Oqvist had opened for Sweden only 10 minutes into the game but Japan striker Nahomi Kawasumi netted goals either side of half-time while captain Homare Sawa capped another impressive display with her fourth goal in five games.
Earlier, Lauren Cheney lifted the United States to 1-0 lead over France only nine minutes into the game. Sonia Bompastor tied the score in the 55th minute, but Abby Wambach and Alex Morgan sealed the Americans' win with the 79th-minute and 82nd-minute goals.
"It was our experience that won it," said US striker Wambach, whose side are through to their first final in 12 years.
"I made some tactical errors today, but my coaching staff gave me a hand and switched the midfield around just when France were playing their best football," said US coach Pia Sundhage.
The Japan-US final showdown will be held here on Sunday.