Final: USA v Japan Match of the Day Live

Hello, welcome to the final of the 2011 women's World Cup. After three

week of action, we are left with Japan and the United States. This

should be a cracker. Let's introduce our panel, Sue Smith and

Martin Keown are joined by Fay White. I wsh you weren't here but

leading England out out. Have you had time to watch it back. Or is it

still a horror show. It takes a while to get over. But I forced

myself to watch it this morning and you have a lot of feelings of

regret and wish we had done better. Certainly when the moment called.

But we fael we have had a good tournament. Slightly galing the two

teams in the final, you had good performances against and you look

at the performances leading up to the final, were you thinking

England could have done one better? Yes we are in a great position,

having had those results against top quality teams. That can only

give us confidence. In major tournaments, America are in this

position, because they know how to win when it counts. We said

friendlies is not where it counts. That is something we need to learn.

But like I said, we can be positive. We didn't lose a game in a World

Cup. But sadly not this time. Some great performances. We will talk

more about your future later on. But let's focus on the final.

Galling for Fay and England, they made such light work of Japan, 2-0

and beat USA in theed by up. This and beat USA in theed by up. This

is how the US progressed They had a dramatic quarter final win over

Brazil. And a 3-1 win over France. Japan had wins over New Zealand and

Mexico, before losing to England. They knocked out the hosts Germany

in the quarter finals. So physically, you would say England

outmuscled Japan in that game. We were talking that this was a team

that had been compared to Barcelona. They will playing in triangles and

look smooth. But the first 45 minutes we said, where is this team.

England made them look ordinary. That was our game plan. We knew if

we allowed them to get it into their midfield, we would be in

trouble. We said, our game plan, sit off, stop them playing in

midfield and be physical. It was the first time we pressured them.

Didn't allow them time on the ball and it was a great performance.

Ellen White's goal gave us a great start as well. So it was a all

round performance. I mean I thought England in the tournament played

exceptionally well. We're sitting here now with the captain thinking,

listen I enjoy signature next to you, but I would rather you were

out there. With Kelly getting that injury, we were almost playing with

ten men in the end. The United States physically more similar to

England. Do you see them approaching the game in the same

way with Japan. Yes that is what way with Japan. Yes that is what

they have got to do. Ray Japan, we say they're smaller, they like to

pass the ball. America will try to stop them and use their strength

and their physical abilities. and their physical abilities.

look at the United States line up. Nine of the eleven England played

in April. Where are the main threats. Wambach is the player, a

fantastic front man. And they're strong at the back. And they're

professional in the way they play. They're the favourites. 25 times

they have played Japan and Japan have never won. Wam patch you know

well -- Wambach you know well, she broke your nose! She has 162 caps.

She is, I have played her a couple of times and she is a handful. She

is got at -- good at getting free kicks, but her biggest threat is in

the air. She scored in the last minute and she is a big game player.

When they get that once chance, put it in the back of the net. I hate

to say it, but she is prolific and leads the line. She is a cross

between Andy Carroll and Gary Lineker. She looked very relaxed

there. The experience the American girls have got at the top of the

game is quite incredible. Now let's look at the starting eleven for

Japan. And ten of the team faced England. We saw in midfield Homare

Sawa and Mizuho Sakaguchi. Yes I have enjoyed watching Japan. The

way they move the ball about. I love the wide players, their

crossing on the run, they can play left foot, right foot. They're just

enjoyable to watch. They have to, against America, they have to move

the ball and keep one or two touch. They did lose of course to the

English, but take nothing away from them, they had won the group at

that point. They didn't know whether to go for it. Homare Sawa's

fifth World Cup. This would be the first site an Asian side have

lifted the World Cup if they can beat the United States. She has

four goals so far in the tournament. Is it their time? USA have the

experience and have been in the position before. Japan haven't. But

they have a technically gifted player in Sawa. She has got a

couple of goals in previous games, four goals from midfield. She likes

to join in late. Set pieces she scored a couple of goals. It may

not be so easy against America. But she is a very technical player and

that stood out when we looked at the Japan team, all around the team

they're comfortable on both feat. Aya Miyama can provide great balls

into the box. I hope they do it. I'm rooting for Japan. I think I'm

rooting for ja pab. -- Japan, but I think America will do it. I agree.

Any questions we will address them. Let's led to Frankfurt and the

World Cup final. Your commentary to the sixth FIFA women's World Cup

final. It is Japan who most of us didn't think would be here tonight

and it is the US a. Who many did. Whatever happens, we will have a

piece of history by the end of the evening. Either the first side from

the Asian football confederation to be crowned queens of world football,

or the Americans would be the first to lift the trophy three times.

1991, 1999, two previous finals, two finals won. Credit to the

German s who have supported this tournament to well. There must be

disappointment among German fans that their team was knocked out in

the quarter finals by ja pab. -- Japan. The roof is on here. Lady

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and gentlemen, please stand for the Japan's Golding girl, Homare Sawa

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is ready for the most glittering United States. Nerves obviously

jumping, but miles more smiles, right from the word go from the US

national team at this World Cup. Pretty much a closed shop over Greg

Ryan four year ago. But the Swedish coach has brought a whole new

feeling to the game. This is the Japan team. The coach said in the

build up we need to keep our key players fit and that is what has

happened and why Japan have made it all the way to the end game. Japan

ranked four in the world. It would seem FIFA got that just about right.

About to take on the world's No 1 ranked women's international

football team. Germany does have representation in this final.

Viviana S, the einhouse. I don't think she would have got the chance

to referee a World Cup office. She had to take time off from work as a

police officer to take this final. You may have recognised the fourth

official from Sweden. For the States two changes from the seemy

final. Rachel Buehler is back. And a second World Cup start for Megan

Rapinoe. Another milestone, the keeper is the oldest woman to have

figured in a World Cup final at 36. Now a word from my trusted

assistant all tournament long, Lucy Ward. We have heard from the girls

and from Martin about where their favours lie tonight. Where are you

going on this one? It is a real clash of styles, the United States

have not played well at part and then they have scored with this

player, Abby Wambach, because she is all the. -- tall, but Japan keep

the ball well and they know thousand score. I don't know which

one to go -- they know how to score. I don't know which one will win. So

States. Perhaps the wrong option taken. Lauren Cheney did well. She

has been playing most of the final and she probably made the wrong

decision. She did see Abby Wambach, but thought she would draw the

keeper and have a go. This is just the sort of set piece that Japan

will be aware of. Abby Wambach is four inches taller than the tallest

think Japan have tried not to concede corners, set pieces around

the box. That is the trouble they will have. But they did well there.

Maybe the United States are thinking of getting over players on

the end of these. Japan are obviously worried about Abby

you can see the US game plan. will approach this game and I would

suspect that they will be looking at the seat piece, but to suck

Japan into a scrap, because Japan won't like the physical part of it.

They will not like to be closed down. That is how the United States

will start, pressing them high up the field. She could have had five

in five, Abby Wambach, she hit the woodwork in the first two games.

Hope Solo is again the footballing darling of her country. She was

pretty much banished from the camp. But the US immediate contracan't

get enough of the keeper these days. And she is your favourite as well!

I knew that would come up at some through for Ando. But a little too

strong. Norio Sasaki the confident, if very serious coach of the Japan

team. Couldn't get too much more different methods employed by the

coaches. Norio Sasaki has been saying doing it for victims of

tsunami and earthquake in March. He showed the team photographs of the

victim of the disaster before the match with jarmy. -- Germany. There

was a wonderful moment in the press conference when the United States

coach started singing to the press. I watched it aye went red watching

it. She was trying to say when thing get heated and the pressure's

on the player, she breaks into song. It was quite amusing and the

Germans found it amusing. They clapped her at the end, I don't

think they knew what else to do. You couldn't react well to that.

think I would laugh. I suppose it would stop the tension for a while.

That is a goal kick. Japan are playing with freedom and they know

they're doing the country back home proud. It is horrible what happened

and the girls at the end of each game, they carry a banner thanking

people for their support. They seem happy to be there and playing

Wambach. 121 goals in 162 games. think she is struggling with an

injury. So they will want her in front of goal, rather than getting

them in the channels. Megan Rapinoe has been brought on in the few

games I have seen and really made a difference and her crosses from the

left created the goal against Brazil that made me stand on me

feet watching it. It was a tense game and Brazil were getting the

boos from the crowd, because there were bits of cheating. Megan

Rapinoe put in the cross and Abby Wambach put it in. I think she

expects to start. You have left that fence, talking about cheating

with Brazil. Well all the fans were booing. Well there was a bit of

year spell playing in Frankfurt. She has gone back to the United

States and hopes to join a professional club there. It is

strange, although the WSL in England took a break for the World

Cup, it is business as usual in the United States. That is surprising,

there is actual lay game tobt in about Three hours -- actually a

game tonight in about Three hours finished off though. But that is

how the United States will play it. Lauren Cheney trying to make it 1-0

inside eight minutes. Good ball from Megan Rapinoe. I think people

on the far side of the stadium thought that went in, because of

the movement of the net. A great cross and slightly off with the

finish. But she reached well. Scored against North Korea in the

group stages. We mentioned Barack Obama's tweets. Yours to us, far

more important. Tell us what you think of the game and of the

to that the keeper was getting. good strike. You see the Japanese

keeper is not the tallest. She seemed to have it covered, but that

is a tactic. A great strike. In the opening minutes we have seen how

powerful the USA are as a team. Certainly the dominant attacking

force. The first thought when they get the ball is forwards. Whereas

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Japan will go around the houses and She's clever feet, Megan Rapinoe.

That could have gone either way. Lauren Cheney has been playing on

the left throughout the tournament. Now she will want to show she can

getting closer. That is a great ball in from Boxx. Good defending

by Japan and keep the ball down, get it on target A great strike,

but on target. The USA have led the way in term os -- term of long

range goals. There have been some contenders for goal of tournament.

There was a cracker yesterday from Sweden in their win over France.

The USA with another chance and it is just wide again. Megan Rapinoe

cutting in to be a presence in the penalty area. A good run by Heather

O'Reilly. When she wasn't closed down, she thought she would just go

for it. But not on her strongest foot. The defender put her off. But

the USA are getting closer. At the moment this is one way, the

favourites are on Fopp. But the game will -- are on top. But the

game will ebb and flow. You suspect this us how the United States

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edge of the box seconds after frustrating with the ball, trying

to get the ball forward a bit too quickly which is not what they have

done in previous games. They need to settle down and not try to force

the ball which is what is happening. I was going to mention earlier the

last meeting of these teams, 2-0 to the USA. After that game, the US

team auctioned their shirts online for the American Red Cross Japan

tsunami Relief Fund. So there is a good feeling between the two camps.

feeling, not like the USA-Brazil game. Four players booked in the

The only player on the field who has won this competition before,

the member of the 1999 World Cup squad. She has a winner's medal

from that tournament. The 4th most the official US aid delegation. And

Germany's coach, Sylvia night, having mixed feelings in the stands

rather than being on the football pitch. She is used to being there,

flight to put in good crosses. -- each flank. It is getting crowded

Megan Rapinoe made up for his few errors, she was onside. That first

touch, she had to put it across earlier than that. In the end she

made completely the wrong decision. Again, they're getting behind the

full-backs. Do you think the first touch letter with no other option.

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It wasn't the best. -- it left her looking very relaxed. The first

non-American to coach the team, 7 coach overall. -- seventh. A

support from Heather O'Reilly. Non- stop running down that right-hand

Counting the number of Japanese players defending on the edge of

their own box, to stop those shots their passing game going. And also,

they need to mix the play a little bit. They need to get the ball

forward, a little bit quicker from the back. These players are

technically very good and received ultimately. Shannon Boxx doesn't

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the ball. The US press pack have alerted us that one of panic names

his -- is the Buehl-dozer. She is no nonsense. How will to win. And

how physical she is. She defence very well. She was sent off in the

quarter-final against Brazil. Shinobu Ohno has had an excellent

tournament and will be looking to put her mark on this one as well.

Pia Sundhage is not happy about European Championship winner in

1984, scoring the decisive penalty against England at Kenilworth Road,

Luton. How she has seen the women's That was too high for Kabba silly

macro. -- Kawasumi. The US will be conscious not to give any free

kicks are weighed just outside the having any of it. A USA free kicks.

I don't know whether Amy Le Peilbet fouled or obstructed. The referee

energy. She scored one of the goals of the tournament, a superb strike

come from the team in white and continues now. Abby Wambach on the

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move. Sakaguchi tried to stay with Japan. All credit to the USA who

are playing well, forcing Japan into making mistakes. Interesting

to CV possession statistics which are not as dominant as they usually

in tight situations is unbelievable, the Japanese. First touch, all of

them, it gets them out of those tucked -- tight situations. That

The referee has just woken up, has not been involved yet. Needs to go

referee when the officials names corner kick. A lot of crowd

interest in Japan. If the locals are choosing a save it, they would

choose Japan over the USA. For the throw-in much to the surprise of

too hasty. Yes. The wrong decision. Quite a lot of the time she has got

the ball. They break well, the USA. But if you're looking for Abby

Wambach to chase something like that, it will not happen, they need

played. That was Wambatch. It hit the crossbar. And Heather O'Reilley.

Carli Lloyd. That was wide. Definitely the main threat for the

USA, Abby Wambach, what a great strike. Good play by the referee,

drive. What a connection on that. The Japanese teacher should have

touched it. A great strike. Like an arrow towards the top corner. She

hit the crossbar and the post in the first two games of the

tournament, didn't score. She netted with her head in the last

three. The closest either side have come to a goal yet. The USA have

started extremely well and Boxx but Homare Sawa was back on

frustrated they haven't taken the lead yet with really one-third of

the match gone. You see so many times teams are dominant, there is

a lull in play and they lose competition and the opposition

scores. They have had enough opportunities on goat but -- on

to Kozue Ando, but straight to Hope Solo. Tame in the end, best Japan

move. In the end, it ran away from Kozue Ando. The connection she got

on it was a little bit too wide. It was easy enough for Hope Solo. That

is what Japan can do, the ball given away and an opportunity

created by a clever little ball. may be Japan confidence, something

lacking in the finish. Kozue Ando, three goals in qualifying, the same

as Homare Sawa, but has not netted in Germany yet. Played every game

other tucked in on the left or up front as a genuine striker. Against

England, she came on as left back. That is good knowledge, I don't

not penalised for it. Lauren Cheney lost it. This is where Japan are

good. Little touches, nice movement. But not quick enough. The USA are

doing so well at closing them down. They can't play the easy receive --

receipt. They are rattling Japan a little bit. A little like England

did in the Group Stage game. England played extremely well

against Japan which seemed to shift up and down the gears in that game.

There is a way to play against Japan and the USA hope they have

found out that. Japan are getting more into this, starting to move

ball. When Japan to get it, they keep it but not incisive in that

final third. The USA have done very well, the anything they have not

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one gone. Lauren Cheney on the end of a really good ball back into the

danger zone. Should really have kept it lower. Lauren Cheney

thought it was an opportunity. The keeper came. A great opportunity to

score. The keeper was in no man's land. She decided to come, then

decided it was the wrong option. A wasted chance. Scored in the semi-

final, from an Heather O'Reilley got forwards forward. I would like

to see Sameshima Ford. They can drag the USA for it. Because the

USA are pressing so much, Japan's cannot get their full-backs

or sad. He is not quite as to what she did as Pia Sundhage. Let us

hear what you think about it all. If you have a Twitter account,

joined in the debate that will pick up at half-time. Who you think will

win? Nomination for player and goal of the tournament. About England

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quite get to it. Rachel Buehler was caught a little bit square. Nearly

an opportunity on goal, good play, a good build up. Those who have

come to Frankfurt to support Japan, have reason to smile. It is

becoming a little bit Morse -- it did, hit it too high. -- what

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Kozue Ando is getting played in. They are finding their feet in this

game. Formidable goalkeeping they have to beat if they are to win

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from the roof in the Commerzbank Arena. You can see it from all fool

sides. -- four sides. That will be another three kick.

Both players have been hurt by that one. -- another free kick. You

reminded me about our referee, Bibiana Steinhaus. One of the most

relaxed referees. She looks like she is having a lovely night.

time. She could be nervous because she is refereeing a World Cup final.

But a relapsing smile, enjoying it. But sometimes forgetting to watch

what is happening. Often on the touchline at for top-flight games

in Germany. She has a reputation of Shouldn't she be in goal? She is

back-pedalling furiously. Abby Wambach couldn't get up in time for

ball would have gone out. A risky back heel. It could have fallen to

anybody. Luckily for Japan, Abby Wambach was on the floor. Abby

Wambach, three goals at this are here, in the last 20 minutes,

after a nervous start. The US were got back on their feet. Now they

is now on the rampage. Megan Rapinoe was with her. Wanted to try

to find Lauren Cheney and Abby ball inside. The USA have to be

careful in the penalty area. Because of the height difference it

could look like a foul. The ball was played in with the outside of

the foot, and eased... Know when the writ in the end. The USA have

to be careful as Japan start to play this tricky passes around the

but I think Norio Sasaki will be very happy. But he believed it was

at least third place for his team at this World Cup. He said he would

be happy with third place. minimum. A strange one to pick out

the third placed play off. That is the one I want to win. Never maind

I don't know whether Kinga had too much time down the right. She

picked out the wrong cross. She needed to put it where Hope Solo

wasn't. No time added on. That is it for the first half of the

Women's World Cup final. America dominated the start but Japan came

back into it and it is 0-0 at half So no goals, Martin I got the sense

that you felt nerves may have been cramping the style that we had come

to expect. Yes the World Cup has been a good advert for women's

football, but it was a bit disappointing. But then the USA

looked awesome going forward. But a bit sloppy in their passing. But I

think technically this has been a fantastic World Cup. But a bit

disappointed early on. Japan had to absorb a lot of pressure early on

and they were doing it through sheer weight of blue shirts. In the

end keeping out a few good efforts, but a lot of effort and the final

ball wasn't there a lot of the time. Yes Japan have looked to get

players behind the ball and cope with the pace and power up front.

Cheney and Wambach have worked well. With Cheney coming in, they have

been phenomenal in their running into the channels. Wambach's got

some great strikes, hit the bar and I think Cheney gives them more

technical ability. She can head the ball as well and they have been a

handful. The pace of the two centre halfs for Japan have been

struggling. You got the sense at the end of the first half, Japan

finding their way back into the game. Yes they started off and

Martin said they were nervous and couldn't get their passing right.

Coming to last ten or 15 minutes they started to create things and

if they got a goal, that would boost them. Let's look at the key

performers, Abby Wambach, she is a great figure for them and showed

some great skill. She was popping up with the best chances. She is

such a strong runner. And here look at the power in the shot. That was

the Andy Carroll part of her. is Andy Carroll with short hair!.

She does everything right apart from hitting the back of the net.

She is so single minded. That is how the United States set

themselves up. Here they have had a lot of the possession and have

controlled the game. But here is Lloyd going through and they have

players that can shoot from distance. Lloyd's also had a great

opportunity and they're causing problems down the wing with Rampone

and Riley. I think Japan are having to double up all over the field.

They're so powerful. There it was sloppy. We said a lot of sloppiness.

But they keep coming at you and play with a real energy and Wambach

is such a willing runner, you feel, well this is Cheney. It is Heather

O'Reilly outside. She played on the left. But it is her presence on the

box and it spills out for Lloyd and look at the power in that shot.

Japanese not panicking at that point. All of the pressure was

coming towards them. Absorbing it and Cheney we saw also having some

good efforts in the first 20 minutes and showing us what she is

about. She is one of the favourites and she has come h and proved why

she has the shirt on tonight. gives more technical ability than

what Rodriguez has. She is more looking at running in behind. She

starts from five yards behind her and out muscles the defender and

maybe here get it across the goal. Because a touch can knock it in.

I their decision-making in the final third. They're getting in

behind them. Wambach wasn't really free. You fire across the open goal

and it only needs a nick and it is great running from Cheney. That is

a great ball. And just the final finish that is missing. A -- Megan

Rapinoe has impressed me. She has caused Japan problems. Another

chance, in the air she has put those away in the past. And she

will be disappointed there. Perhaps more awareness. She has more time

than she realised. She could have taken its on her chest. But if they

start putting these chances away, the United States, then the game's

over. But they're always leaving the back door open. In the latter

half of the first half one or two chances for Japan and the United

States can't afford to switch off. Let's look at Megan Rapinoe. She

has done a lot to impress. She is another direct player. She likes to

run at players. Similar to Heather O'Reilly and they seem to have

swapped wings. But her running has amazed me. This was a nice ball and

you see, I like wide players when they come in off the line. It is

the appetite to link in. The ball that is pulled back, it is a bit of

a scruffy pass. She wants that ball in space in front of her andless

pace on it. -- and less pace on it. But nice movement and this is a

lovely one/two. She finds space and she has caused the right back

problems. Wambach is angry with her there. She could have chopped back

inside. It is an impossible angle. Well Wambach's height, just giving

her a chance with her head may have been an option. Japan got into it.

22 minutes before they got themselves into any kind of scoring

position. But the chances did start to come, Martin? They did and you

know, they're very measured in the way they play. They're unruffled in

possession. It is a very slow build up. But there noise way Shinobu

Ohno's going to score from there.' - -- there is no way Shinobu Ohno's

going to score from there. Hit the this was the best move of the game.

Just too much on the pass. But look at that. A great ball. They have

the ability to open up the defence and the back four of America are

organised, they're quick and they can handle the pace. But it is

those threaded balls and timed runs that Japan are capable of, which

don't write them off. Because they have showed they can hold on.

are a bit static, the American defence and looking at it there.

The intelligence to dink balls over and play them through in tight

spaces and the Japanese players have the ability to do that.

over all are you standing by your predictions? Will stand by mine. I

think America. Yes, if they can start to put these chances away the

game could be out of sight. You're thinking 1-0. I'm keeping the trust

in Japan. You never know. Now let's reflect on the tournament. It is

hard to believe it was three week ago tomorrow that England kicked

off against Mexico. Here is the story of their campaign. It is in

and England are off and running. brilliant goal! Jess clack. 2-1!

Ellen White trying to lob lob the keeper. That is a brilliant goal.

2-0 England, going through to the quarter finals of the World Cup.

This would be a really difficult test for England. Now Jill Scot may

think about going for goal. Does go for it. She gives England the lead.

It is lit to the top corner and France are level. They have taken

to it the lottery of a penalty shoot out. Is it England's time to

finally one of these things? Saved by Bardsley. Kelly Smith, England's

record goal coal erscorer and that was -- goal scorer and that was

lashed in. She has put it wide and we're level. Arsenal's Fay White

has hit the bar. It is all over for England. There is something to

dampen the mood. Sorry about that, Fay, showing you that again. It is

an emotional thing just to see that. But I have to ask you about Hope

Powell's comments that the girls were cowardly and not stepping up

to take the penalties. I think you come out of a tournament and there

is a lot of emotion around the situation. Obviously, it happened

that Hope's felt it is up to players to decide who is ready to

take one. And the volunteers were there, weren't there and that is

why I stepped up to. I was prepared to take one. We can always look

back and think lessons learned and maybe we need to do that. But again

it wasn't the impression that we got initially after the game. But I

think it is a pressured situation. I wouldn't have changed my decision

to take one. I felt responsible as the captain and a senior player, if

no one else was prepare to I would and take the consequences of having

to go through the upset and the feelings of missing and to feel

that could be put on someone else's shoulder. Did I wish I score? Of

course I have played it over and over in my head. But it is a

lottery with penalties and how cruel football can be, we were two

minutes from going through. To have to go through those ehogs motions

and hang on -- emotions and hang on into extra time. England were the

walking wounded and to hang on in the extra time period was an

incredible effort? Yes you have to take confidence from that. The

French have shown they're a strong team. They got better as I went on.

We knew it would be hard. To score the goal in the game, it felt that

was against the run of play and for them to score right at the end was,

you know it was hard to swallow. But girls got together and I'm

proud to have... Do you still have the appetite and the energy to keep

going for England? Do you have another big campaign in the

Olympics? I was concentrating on the World Cup, I had an injury to

come back. I have shown can I do it. I love playing for my country. I

wouldn't change the moments I had, whether they are good or bad, for

anything. The Olympic will be unbelievable. I have the passion,

but it is not down to me. It is who the manager and... We suspect that

will be Hope. The rumblings she might be the coach for the GB team.

Will she be the coach for England in a year's time. I haven't spoken

to her. She wouldn't tell me direct Liverpool I think she has done a

magnificent amount for the women's game w the media and the extra

expectation. We have reached a certain level and it is closer and

the difference between going through and not is just a few

inches. So you know, she has done a magnificent job to put the

structure into place and get us where we are. That has to be taken

note of. In the future, only she knows. I think she will stick

around. She has now got a quite big ego and she wants to be there. I

think it was unfair to suggest the players were cowardly. But perhaps

in future they should select the penalty takers. Within reason. You

don't know who will be left. who may have had a horrendous night.

I think we need to pick these players. They will take the

penalties, because it is a pressure situation. It was huge. It was so

ironic, that always England on penalties. God, we were willing for

you to change lis tri. I wish I could have. Now back to some tweets

coming through. Some positive ones about the women's game. Franky

saying the women's game is improving, US looking strong, Japan

have got the fight. Claire saids the United States are all over this.

Inspiring stuff. That is what you think. Let's see what the sec half

can proDawes and rejoin Guy and the squad, who scored the third

goal against France has replaced Lauren Cheney. Throughout half time

she has been out of dressing room, sitting in the Dougout, cutting a

foreLorne figure, right foot packed ice. There were a few tears. The

biggest moment of her career and se has - eshe has had to leave it half

way through. But it is a chance for Morgan who has looked a very good

player in her four substitute appearances. Alec Morgan will think

she is un -- unlucky not to have reasons why the United States were

at the World Cup. Scored in the play off with Italy. They were

actual think last of the 16 teams to book their place in Germany.

They did tit hard way for once. It is not -- they did it the hard way,

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for once, it is not something the first half and not got it. A Rie

kick there, Megan Rapinoe tangling with Shinobu Ohno. The final bump

came from Carli Lloyd. There is a physical difference. Japan are

happy to do this and find the opportunity to thread a ball

through. But the US have have gone for it and there is that risk that

Rampone not played, she would have been the oldest player to play in a

World Cup final. It is a good mix this USA squad, young and old. Only

eight of the 21 from 2007 remain. page and scrambled away somehow.

Afrpblgts great opportunity, but again well -- A great opportunity,

but again well defended by Japan. great. It was a save against the

post and who was the first to react. The first was Sawa. That could have

just bobbled any where and it was was expecting that. But that is a

card coming soon. The referee's expression has gone from relaxed to

stern. Heather O'Reilly was the stripes around the stadium are

being heard now. Trying to give their team an extra lift. But that

shot was always going way from Carli Lloyd, who has had so many

efforts near the goal, but nothing on target. It was a great run and

she looked up and there was no one with her, so the only thing to do

was to have a strike, but again not on target. Ayumi Kaihori's wasted

there. -- to be stronger there. The ball over the top of the keeper,

Ayumi Kaihori, but it was over the top of everything. Japan's Pazing

broke down, but again a great ball by Megan Rapinoe relesss Abby

Wambach, but the wrong choice. She did laugh, but that was not what I

expected to come. You see there the USA have tryed the shots, quite a

lot have been off target. Rachel Buehler took a touch and that was

risky. Japan are small and tricky, if you take an extra touch, they

are around you and take the ball off you. It is an even contest this

and taking them on. Not beating them though. There will with be --

there will be a free kick for Japan. I don't expect Pia Sundhage would

have made the change if chainy hadn't been injured. But she is a

good player, but made the wrong decision there. The manager doesn't

look that happy. Pia Sundhage's assistant is a player of some

reputation. An ex-Norway international and a World Cup

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was great play in the middle of the pitch, just trying to thread those

balls through, but not getting there. But the quality of Japanese

play shines through. The movement have thrown herself. Wouldn't it be

Aireic if Japan scored from a corner. She could have committed

full back three times if she can. She manages to get a corner for the

United States. She was lucky. Sometimes there are easier options

on, but she has got her team a can that the ball does not reach

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A bit too complicated for the USA and you may get a sense of that,

the longer it stays 0-0. They will feel they should be one or two

goals up, with the opportunity they have had and they're not. They may

start to lose patience going forward and make the wrong

decisions like that, trying to take the ball around your own player who

is on the ground. But the one thing the United States will not do is

give up. They will feel they can win this. We saw that in the

quarter final against Brazil, undoubtedly the match of the World

Cup. I read that Abby Wambach's end of extra time equaliser was the

latest goal that has ever been De USA part a lot of pressure on

themselves. That is the way the Americans do it. They have the

was no trouble. The ball played forward, a race between the

defender and attacker. They defend very well and are physically a lot

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herself well in this tournament. -- and threes. That was wasted. You

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can see what she was trying to do the USA. Instead of the straight

corner to Wambatch. There are too think the ball was meant for the

is difficult. I will stick up for the assistant referee. The

The first time we have seen the power of Abby Wambach, her height.

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A flying header. The goalkeeper was be a double the -- a double Japan

change. Shinobu Ohno is making way, and Karina Maruyama is taking her

place. She has been subbed into every one of Japan's games in the

tournament. It doesn't make it any easier, especially the final.

scorer of the only goal in extra- time against Germany, the shock of

the tournament so far. Kozue Ando going off as well. That is a

regular change which sucking macro against the USA in a World Cup

warm-up prior to the previous World Cup finals. 4-1 the USA when. That

has been the story of it. And they contest to go. There will be extra

time, of course, there could be penalties, but we won't talk about

those yet. The USA get the call this time. There is a bit more

attention in the tackles. further this game goes on, both

teams they they have the opportunity to win it. Things may

Rapinoe up who has used the ball well in the end. The shot was a

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wonderful goal! The USA break the deadlock finally. The substitute,

Alex Morgan, the youngest Pet in the US national team. It is Japan's

0, USA one. Two passes from Japan's losing the ball. They won the

physical battle. What a great fish that was. That was a great finish.

She did well, she composed herself, had a look, and then unleashed an

unbelievable shot. That is going to be most goalkeepers in this

competition. Pia Sundhage all final against France. From the

bench, to do that. And again in the biggest game of all, the biggest

moment of her young life. That's from the USA from here! The Norway

is in a Frankfurt reverberating. -- the noise in Frankfurt.

That is the other side of Alex Morgan. Giving Japan a free kick.

She steadies herself. And picked that out. That was a finish. I

don't concede in the next few minutes otherwise this is all over.

Under 20 team in the US. A World Cup winner at that level in 2008,

she got the winner against North career. Now it is the senior stage.

crying anymore, sitting on the goalkeeper. That was a good ball.

Hope Solo fans, a few of them about. She has always had one of the

biggest fan clubs in the women's Difficult to beat Hope Solo from

there. Japan still have to play, Kate passing and creating. -- keep

passing. A really good game. Just looked stronger. It was a great

it and the momentum. Carli Lloyd Kaihori. Good goalkeeping. It was

experienced player on the pitch. She knew she was on heroin and

under pressure. -- she was on her the edge of the area. A great ball

from Megan Rapinoe. Japan will not be happy with that. Beating or

in numbers. At that stage when they were attacking and they lost it,

and the ball went into the back of to go. What have Japan got left in

their locker? They will keep trying to create so the USA need to defend

extremely well if they are not going to concede. They must not

lose concentration. Japan will not They don't need to force anything

now. They need to keep the ball. To stop Japan getting it but not a

force anything forwards. It's the only way they now have to play.

they know how to play. The USA have a bit more humility over the past

few years, not winning anything. That has shown in this World Cup

every World Cup match, and absolutely magnificent job. It has

engaged the nation. If they have not bought tickets, they have been

watching on TV. They have embraced it. Well done. We know how good a

team they are, even though their team has gone out. There are a lot

of German shirts in the crowd who have adopted Japan. It is good to

see. If the audiences across the that, the USA will be happy. The

clock is ticking. Closer to a World Cup win. Not as dominant, Japan, as

in other games. They have set about this game really well, the way they

have harassed and tried to make the USA, giving Japan no time on

the ball. It only takes one mistake, though, one moment. Perhaps a

beginning of March, 2-1 to the USA. forcing its forwards quickly. They

keep the ball, defend. A quick reminder to join in the post-match

debate with your tweets. Her let us see what you think about it all,

what you think, can Japan forced extra time with an equaliser? Panic

stations at the back and Japan have scored! A look of shock on the face

of Miyama. For the Japanese, out of nothing. They are level! The USA

just could not get rid of the ball. It landed at her feet, Miyama. And

she put it away. I was looking at it thinking there was nobody in the

box. A great ball in. A mix up. You can't put a ball in front of Miyama

and not expected to score. It is a shame. The USA had defended

extremely well. A great finish. Opportunist. A horror moment for

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Rachel Buehler and Alex Krieger. Kinga tangling for all she is worth

with Amy Le Peilbet. The crowd, you can hear the murmuring, talking

together, they thought the USA had this will stop -- had this..

looked as if she could not believe the world will not believe this.

Japan have already caused the biggest shock in this tournament by

beating hosts Germany in the quarter-finals. They have paid back

the USA in the final. Where do we go next? The chance to put it in

and it was too high for Abby Wambach. That was a good ball in,

floated in, not driven. Megan Rapinoe couldn't quite get there.

What have the USA got now? We have seen what they had in the earlier

rounds. It will be a battle to the Many were have stayed up to watch.

In the States, it is getting on to afternoon and evening, many will be

watching. Carli Lloyd. She hung on needed more, to put her boot

straight through it. It didn't happen. She has played well all the

to go. Abby Wambach has been a heroin at this tournament and on

many occasions before -- heroine. Not really had a great impact on

the match so far. That was cleared A good move by the keeper.

brave as well. -- that was bold. Look how many Japan players are

getting into the US territory now. A great ball by Homare Sawa.

Another decent ball but nobody at the end of it. What a great touch.

A good ball in. That might have been a little bit of a push, by the

USA defender. It was Rachel Buehler, managed to fall over, that is what

finals didn't do it the easy way. In 1991. They needed penalties

against home soil against China in 1999. That was an exciting game to

watch. I remember 99,000 being at scorer of the winning goal in a Cup

game. Whoever loses that vital bit of concentration. It gets more and

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more tense. Particularly if it goes always wide. She kept it low, but

always going wide. Japan's still not afraid to pass it. Some tired

bodies out there now. It looks like The USA piling on pressure. Two

minutes to be added on. Desperate defending by Japan, but proper

centre forward by Abby Wambach this time. Got to hit the target.

That was a great opportunity. Keep it down and hit the target. USA

piling on the pressure, Japan equal to it. One minute of the two played.

Pia Sundhage will have to get ready to deliver some words it would seem.

Inspiring words. I wonder if Norio Sasaki will line up some more

photographs. He will have to earn his money. They're looking tense.

Well, they were until they spotted good track back from midfield. That

might be it you know. When it is a one-on-one, the USA are always

going to win those. Norio Sasaki is ready. Pia Sundhage is ready. The

players have got to be ready for 30 more minutes. There won't be time

for the throw in. We're going into extra time. In the 2011 Women's

World Cup final. It will be the third final to have gone over the

distance and it is all because of Aya Miyama's 81st minute equaliser.

The Japanese have pulled this back from the brink. Back us us for the

conclusion. It is Japan 1, USA1. There is the scene in Frankfurt a a

beautiful shot and we're going to be seeing more of that stadium. We

thought Morgan's superb goal would have been enough to bring home the

trophy for the USA. But Aya Miyama had other ideas. Fay, this must

bring back memories for you, you have been trying to win it in 90

minutes and the players suffering from cramp and feeling tired. What

was going through your mind at this stage? You can see the Japanese

players out on their feet. It is about keeping going and keeping

positive. America were leading, for Japan to come back, maybe they have

the edge of thinking, we have got the momentum in this game. But I

thought Japan were growing into their game towards the end. Well

certainly the second half was a lot better than their first half. There

was a long ball played through to Morgan and it is a fantastic finish.

But Aya Miyama, she was looking to come inside and she was in the

middle of the park trying to get on the ball. She has done well. A bit

of a panic by the centre half to lash the ball, it has hit her own

right back and fallen into the path of Aya Miyama. Morgan came on for

Lauren Cheney who didn't seem to have done much wrong. She has

shown... We were surprised that she went off. But it showed what a

fantastic finish that was. Just the composure to take a touch, look up.

She thinks she has scored the winning goal and then Japan back in

it. A bit of panic at the back. I thought the USA have been

disappointing at the back. It does strange thing when that finishing

line is up. Now we have extra time. They have to settle down, take

their drinks on board and listen to what the manager has got to say. I

still feel the USA are the stronger team. They did look more physically

tired at the end of the second laugh, compared to Japan. Japan

just keep going. They are almost like robots, they keep going and

they have this set way of playing. But I feel the USA have played the

better football. Thaing will come through. Fabulous -- I think that

will come through. A fabulous trophy there. There is the

possibility of penalties as well. What a dramatic way to define your

World Cup, having to go to penalties in the World Cup? It may

not come to that. Obviously, the extra time about to start. So we

wait with baited breath. Let's stpee this can get sorted -- see if

this can get sorted. COMMENTATOR: The simple idea thing I I have no

idea. Both teams seem to have a bit left. Look at that. It was always

smiles in the Japan extra time team talk. It is all energy and positive

messages from the USA. Juande Ramos real -- Christie Rampone really

playing her part there as captain. 90 minutes of come tet pet tifr

action. Real desire and real will to win and not one yellow card.

has been a terrific game. I hope that it is won in this 30 minutes

by the team that deserve to win. The USA started well, Japan have

been quality in terms of their passing and looked like they were

going to win it after getting the equaliser and the game's ebbed and

flowed. The momentum with the USA and then the Japanese and they are

slugging it out. See what happens. The referee will indicate the start

of extra time. USA have only used one substitute. Alex Morgan coming

on for Lauren Cheney and what an Japanese are contesting that.

didn't hear the connection and then Japan, well they don't look happy

their bodies on the line. Boxx with the cross and Abby Wambach with the

header. Not many headed goals scored from the edge of the area,

but she got a lot of power on that. The keeper was equal to it.

gloves spell out the name of Hope Solo. Her time might have to come

Japanese team. Everything happens in the game, and as soon as they

get it, they find a team mate to pass it to. It is just unruffled.

in that equaliser. I could see the Japanese getting a winner after

that. But they have stood firm after the mistake for the Japan

for her crossing abilities, but she has not been able to pick out Abby

Wambach so far. Well she put that great ball through for Morgan. It

wouldn't surprise me to see a obviously, because physically it is

difficult to do that for extra time as well. But again that will put

more priority on who is going to make the mistakes. She thought that

had gone out and then crunched by Heather O'Reilly. That's got to be

a yellow card. That is not a good challenge. The purpose of it you

cowln't see. She has just gone into two teams now. Hen you have the

break at the end, that is when you start to have a bit of time to have

a look around and realise the importance of where you are and

what you're doing. Morgan took a big chunk out of pitch there.

is dangerous, she gets her body between the player and the ball,

created an opportunity. But just wide. But that is the danger for

Japanese. Everything's football in her world. Her boyfriend is a

professional in the MLS with Seattle Sounders. A hint of a smile

on the face of Norio Sasaki. don't know how he saw that. I

couldn't see any difference. What a job he has done. Not only to get

the team into a World Cup final, but to get them to the World Cup at

all. They were struggling for training facilities in the

aftermath of the terrible tsunami last under 20 World Cup and a lot

of the players have grown up with him. He know how to get the players

playing. Look at this, a yellow card. She had to give that, because

the free kick was taken and Aya Miyama stood in front of it. It was

kicked against her. That will be a yellow card. More importantly, she

has scored the goal that made it 1- 1 and the reason why we're playing

up to the hype. But this one has and both teams have given it their

all. I can't put my money on either of them at the moment. My heart

says Japan, but I think that the USA will come through strong in the

Defended again by Rachel Buehler. A lot asked there of Karina Maruyama.

Has had a spell playing in Japan. Rather had a spell playing in

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America. Done plenty of playing in through. But Abby Wambach cowln't

bundle it home. Every time you see the Japanese get it away. I thought

Abby Wambach was going to fall to the floor and the referee had a

decision to make. But she stayed on her feet. That is refreshing to see.

Not if you're a USA supporter got to be more accurate. If she

gets her head on it, it is more than likely to be a goal. But

creating the opportunity has been difficult and full credit to Japan

think as he -- just lost her footing I think as she hit it.

cross or shot. She couldn't decide than that. I wonder whether Abby

Wambach, I am sure it would take something mechanical to haul her

off. But we are told she has been struggling with an injury. She has

already done extra tile and then some once. There is no way you will

drag her off the pitch. She is like Kelly Smith, she will stay on the

pitch whatever it takes. Abby Wambach hasn't looked massively

mobile. But no change there. looks even less so with the

Japanese players around her, who are extremely mobile. That is

Japan's throw. No, two balls on the pitch, that is the retake. Three

minutes to go of the first period been excellent and the differences

between the top teams and the so- called lesser teams is maul now and

makes for better -- small now and Wambach, four goals in the finals,

four headers planted in. In the end that was a great header, but I feel

sorry for the Japanese defenders, they have defended as the ball came

in so well. That was a great defending header, but the ball just

keeps coming back in and Abby Wambach found herself a bit of

space. As the ball's going to fall to her like this, she ain't going

to miss. Nobody marking her, great header. It has been coming, but I

think Japan has defended so well and they have got really close to

Abby Wambach. As soon as she gets herself on her own with with nobody

around her, she is not going to miss from there. It had to come for

her. It is her 13th goal at the again. They have one minute and

another 15 to do that. They have shown they're capable of scoring

and I don't think it is over yet. Norio's notes. 122 international

goals. 50 of those scored with her head. Does help that you're six

foot though. Most of the women in women's football are a lot smaller.

But taking nothing away from her, obviously. Japan have just got to

go for it now and be a bit more direct with their passing. Half

time in extra time. A quick turn around and then Japan have to try

and turn this around. Abby Wambach stands to be the match winner in

the 2011 women's World Cup final. Trade mark header. It is Japan 1,

USA2. Abby Wambach, who else, it was the last few minutes of second

half of extra time we could be secure that would be the winner.

But there is 15 minutes left. Did you see that coming, Martin. Did

you feel the USA still had the energy and the momentum? No the

tempo of the game dropped. It was as if the players were pacing

themselves for another 30 minutes. Now, the emphasis is with Japan

they have to go for it. It there will be gaps at the back and the

USA may get another one. Just getting our breath back after that.

15 more minutes of the word cup to go. And maybe a few more kicks of

the ball after that. We will need a goal for Japan for that to happen.

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being watched with presidential approval on the other side of the

Atlantic. Barack Obama sent via Twitter and more official means I

am sure, a message of good luck to "Ing that should have been her

team's throw in. The weight of the nation will be behind Japan as well

as the US nation. Talking of presidents. Things are changing in

the United States, why not? Both very proud nations the USA and

Japan for different reasons at the moment. I'm sure they will still

slug it out to the finish. I don't think it is over yet. Obviously not

over, but I think there may be some twists and turns to come. Another

nine minutes left of the regulation game when Japan equalised. Another

Again the ball is pin balling around the USA penalty area. Mizuho

Sakaguchi was back in. Just panic setting in the USA six yard box.

That's got to be a foul on the edge of the area, but the USA come away

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But Hope sow low just watched it go -- Solo just watched it go over the

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it is shepherded behind for a goal kick. Some of you might be tuning

in for something else excellent that comes from America, Family Guy.

That will follow the conclusion of this fantastic Women's World Cup

final, which at the moment is going the USA's way. Good, that means I

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best to throw this away. Across by Yukari Kinga and it is headed wide.

Yuki Nagasato going away from goal. A how on earth did that not go in.

As the ball was played in, it was missed by everybody. There wasn't a

Japanese player on the end of it to put it in. The USA were lucky there.

Then they messed it up. Some of this is not world Cup defending.

Trying to be effective but trying a bit too hard. Probably difficult to

they will take plenty of time about Beijing, shortly after taking over.

Is she now going to be the first non-American coach of the women's

national team to lead them into the World Cup. In her inimitable style,

relaxed. It has worked, a much more open, approachable team, less of

the arrogance. They have had to be, to play the game with more humility.

Because they are not winning the World Cups. Tobin Heath is coming

on. A great reception for Megan Rapinoe. We she has had a great

World Cup. Not as effective today. She made the first goal. But she

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Kinga. And cleared by Christie Rampone. That might have been the

chance. They will do well to get on better. The touch she got on it was

not in the right direction. What a great ball. A first touch to it but

Christie Rampone did extremely well Ben. She was reaching for it. But

it wasn't in the right direction in this game. Trying to get her

fair share! Five minutes to go. A bit of time added on. Demonstrated

quite clearly by the referee Bibiana Steinhaus. When Hope Solo

recovers, it will be a Japan corner and represents another chance. Hope

Solo is OK. Fierce instructions for Japan. An unbelievable goal. A

great ball in and she was first to it. No chance, Hope Solo. No wonder

she is smiling. This incredible final takes another turn. A great

ball in and she stuck her lead that, no chance for Hope Solo. -- stuck

breath, never mind everybody else. Just over three minutes left.

Fitting that it should be Homare Sawa. The golden goal of Japanese

football. She has had a terrific match defensively. She wanted to

scored. -- The talisman. That thrown it was too quick. -- throw-

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Solo? She has a big part to play in young thing of their team. Karina

Maruyama, the substitute, is a penalty, one presumes. If we get

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there. Abby Wambach has put its Denied right on the edge of the

penalty area. It is a USA free kick. A yellow card as well for

Iwashimizu. That is a shame, she has defended so well and put

herself on the line. She has been sent off! The card was red. She has

done extremely well. A last ditch tackle. I don't know whether she

got the ball. She took the player. It is a good decision. It is a

shame it is a red card. Rules are rules. An opportunity for the USA.

You can hear the shock around the stadium. I think the referee,

Bibiana Steinhaus, but it right, no room for sentiment. The first ever

red card in a Women's World Cup final, for the Japan's women's

national team in a World Cup match. Two more minutes to go. Japan have

ten players. One of their key strong players is out. Eight

players in the wall! Is this the World Cup final when the moment? A

long conversation going on. Trying Heath who had a go. Couldn't get

through the massed ranks of Japanese defenders. The pinnacle of

these women's football careers, they're giving everything. They

just didn't fall, they threw themselves into runs a bet -- it in

time we hear the missile -- whistle. We have played two minutes of extra

to jelly. The World Cup final is going all the way. It is a lottery

from 12 yards to come. Uncharted territory for Japan. The USA have

already done it this way once at this World Cup. Who does it now?

Homare Sawa wins the Golden Boot. Will she be winning the World Cup

trophy with a team in 12 minutes? Who can predict what will happen in

this shoot-out? All we know that the USA have the experience of a

shoot-out in this tournament, against Brazil. That has to count

mentally for something. They know what to expect, they have come

through one already. I believe they already have a structure in place

of who takes. Obviously, Japan have done amazing to fight back twice

from behind. You can't tell it either way. There is something

about the Japanese that will not give up. They are still doing

tactics even though the game has finished. Hope Solo is getting

treatment for her energy. -- at her injury. She did produce an

incredible save against Brazil, she was their hero. More heroics from

Howard, Faye? She is an ex Dowding -- outstanding keeper. She is

really going to have to do it for her team now. This is the first

time that chap has smiled. Nothing to lose. Be positive. Abby Wambach

getting the first goal in extra- time which we thought might be the

winner for the USA. This is exactly what she is very good at. She bides

her time. Here, she stands still, a fantastic header. I really like the

work rate of more than when she came on. A great build up of play.

To score from a corner against America, it big thing for Japan.

Let us go back to Frankfurt and the drama of the build up to a penalty

shoot-out. It might hit them, and unfair way to win a World Cup. But

they are good drama. Let us handover to Guy Mowbray and Lucy

Ward. Thank you. Apologies to Faye, I

absolutely love them. You could not get a more dramatic way to settle a

sporting contest. Yes, it is cruel. Yes, it is pretty much a lottery.

It is great to watch if you can bear to watch. The USA, and Japan.

Twice the USA lead, twice Japan came back to equalise. Which set of

players can keep the coolest of heads? Simple enough, apply the

ball into the net from 12 yards out. Easier said than done. It has been

a fantastic game. It is a shame that need their team, neither needs

to lose in a penalty shoot-out. It has been absolutely fantastic. I

actually saw him smile! He was obviously saying come enjoy it,

this is why you play football, why you live. What an unbelievable

occasion for these players. Whatever happens, Norio Sasaki has

to be hailed a hero back home. the brink of winning a World Cup.

You would guess the USA would kick the same order that scored all

fight against Brazil. -- all five. Shannon Boxx this is! One of the

most experienced players on the pitch! - Shannon Boxx misses! For a

advantage, Japan. A great save. They will have studied each other's

penalty-takers. Well done. Kaihori gears Japan the break. America has

order will have to change somewhat because Megan Rapinoe has been

Miyama never misses. The player who took us to extra time. She puts

Japan in front. It is about keeping your nerve. Technically she is

brilliant. She sent Hope Solo the wrong way. She is happy with that.

top! It has to be Japan's to throw away now. You can see from the way

she lined up she was going to blast it. She got her foot right

underneath that. Five taken, five scored against Brazil. Now, we are

down to just two, zero out of two for the United States. Just keep

your nerve. Yuki Nagasato. Plays football in

Germany. With FFC Turbine Potsdam. is life left in this shoot-out yet.

He did think that if Hope Solo does go the right way, she is such a big

frame for a keeper she will save it. That was a poor penalty,

disappointing. They have the advantage and still have the

advantage. It has to go in. Abby Wambach took third against Brazil.

Tobin Heath has not been on the field long. Saved again by Kaihori!

This is unbelievable. That is another, that is a good save. You

go the right way, you've got a chance because it's not in the

corner. These are not good penalties by the USA. They are

nervous penalties. There will be some nervous soccer fans back in

means it is Japan's World Cup. despite Hope Solo's best efforts.

2-0 Japan after three penalties each. She hit it hard enough but

didn't get enough of a hand on it, Hope Solo. It's neat end. Japan are

clearer -- closer. Kaihori has said two. Abby Wambach for the USA, she

scores. A great penalty. She has done her job tonight. She keeps it

alive. But possibly only for one back. Only 20 years old. Very

carefully. Hope Solo is the darling of US women's football. Now is the

time to really earned that title. Sportsmanship there, trying to

delay, keep the pressure. To make history. History is made! The first

Asian team to win the Women's World Cup! They have defied the odds.

They have caused another sensational footballing upset in

Germany. First the hosts. Now the No. 1 ranked team in the world, has

fallen to the skills of the Japanese. Brilliant, absolutely

brilliant. They have played out of their skins all the way through the

tournament. Today they have shown so much heart, and prowess, they

have done extremely well. They held their nerves in the penalties

against one of the best teams on penalties in the world. Hope Solo

consoled by her legions of American fans. As Japan and Japanese

football goes into hysterical meltdown. This has been an

astonishing World Cup. It has had the most unbelievable ending. And

the Women's World Cup has a new name on the trophy. The name of

Japan whose coach Norio Sasaki said from at said they were coming to

journey not to play but to win. They have won the entire tournament.

They have now shown they keep their You saw that coming, didn't you,

what an incredible game. With hindsight we can say Japan never

ever gave up. It was an incredible fight by them, incredible

determination. I didn't predict that one. We thought America would

be too strong. Japan were fantastic. Faye didn't. Largely because she

wanted to save England had Burton - - had beaten the World Cup

champions. This World Cup has given results he wouldn't have predicted.

They beat Germany, an impressive Swedish team to get it. Now America,

coming back twice from behind. The dramas of the penalties and to hold

their nerve. America had been in that position. The pressure is

unbelievable. If you look at the Americans, their penalties, they

try to thunder it into the net but the Japanese were clever. Waiting

for the keeper to move. They showed more bottle and they deserved it. I

thought the USA would take it comfortably but in the end Japan

had tremendous resolve. They looked so relaxed. Their final hurdle,

laughing and joking. They looked like they had a strategy over

penalties. It was nice to see them all, their teamwork. That came

across in the penalties. We thought America were mentally stronger. I

thought they would score every single penalty. They didn't. Japan

took control. A fantastic game. us go back, it seems like hours ago,

when Alex Morgan scored that goal which we thought, the way the game

was going, that this was perhaps their own box. This is probably

what they are best at. The ball over the top. In this position, she

is fantastic, really strong. The power she got into that. A fitting

goal to win any World Cup, she stayed onside, good movement. Japan

might think they should have done better. It doesn't matter now. A

fantastic finish from this young player. It is the way America

defended really well. They got players behind the ball. She is

delighted with that. A great moment for her but it wasn't to be. Miyama

stood up and kept Japan in this World Cup final but not much time

to go, in the second half of normal time. Japan, fittingly, got their

chance to go into extra time. second half, they built into the

game. And the first half for America, they could have been a

couple of goals up. We thought there were not many players to find.

A good finish. A comedy of errors. She came in from the wing. Looking

for scratch really. It shows you really in this situation, been in

the right place at the right time, being calm defending. The USA

panicked and they got punished. She swipes at that. That was a very

scruffy goal to concede at that stage of the game. It is about

being in the right place at the right time. Japan's had a belief.

They never gave up. The journey they have had going into that final

game. Going into extra time, it felt like the Japanese have the

energy, the resolve going into that extra time because, when you have

scored late on, you sometimes have that extra lift. But, Abby Wambach

stands up and scores a trademark header. She didn't look like she

would get her goal tonight. So often when they struck a stand

still, it is difficult. She peeled away and stands. The defender

switches off. Like good strikers, they punished you. The Japanese

defenders have been doing well. They were getting their head two

crosses. -- to crosses. Great work by Morgan out wide. The 50th headed

goal for the United States. She is some player. But it wasn't enough

because Japan just kept on going. At that point, as you get into the

second half of extra time, thinking maybe their chance isn't going to

come. It is fitting that the characters who have created this

amazing final, it was Homare Sawa. She scored similar goals. Against

Mexico, she scored with her head. That is from the training field.

She delivers it right into the area she knows she is going to be

running in. To step up in a game of that importance, with five goals in

the tournament. She is the Golden Boot winner. She has done

magnificently. Twice the USA had been pegged back and didn't have a

pair in their team to pass it. The only know one way, a high tempo.

They lacked that flair player in the middle to keep it at times and

they got punished. They will walk away from this, a lifetime

opportunity, a missed opportunity to win a World Cup. Right near the

end, a couple of minutes to hold that. America are known for their

willingness to work hard and did dip, for their mentality, but they

met their match. All credit to Japan. You could say that was a

professional foul. Morgan it scores in that position normally.

replay shows more than just gets her foot. We should have a look at

some of the key penalties. A penalty shoot-out like no other. On

the back of their incredible shoot- out against Brazil, full of

confidence, world class penalty- takers. Shannon Boxx missed a

penalty against Brazil. She was always going to go that way. Carli

Lloyd, normally so good in her placement. You can't describe the

it can happen to them. Japan, we said they were like robots, that

was a fantastic penalty to win it as well. Centre half as well.

was so cool. You see the togetherness there. You saw in the

huddle before the penalties, the manager got them in and composed

and smiling. For women's football to have a new name on the trophy

and the first winner from Asia as well, just showing how the sport

has spread the globe and it is truly a global game.: this

tournament has shown the gaps between the Best is ninely. Before

it was America and Germany. Now we can say we were beaten. We beat

Japan! That is a real positive for England. When we look back on the

tournament and how we performed, but it has been so close and team

have been -- teams have been beating each other. That is what

you want, it to be so competitive that any team feels they can go on

and win. Great for people to get engaged in it. When you're trying

to get new people watch the sport. This is an unbelievable advert for

it. This gives the English team, you must be thinking that, there is

an opportunity to win the Olympics. Without question. You're so close

to have won this. We take confidence from the performances we

have put in, also prior to the tournament and we have young, good

players that can make a massive difference. We're only growing.

fact that England have beat, America, Sweden and Japan, it shows

how far we have come. Learning the experience from major tournaments

as well. Is Sa War -- Sawa you're player of the tournament. Yes it is

her fifth one and to come up with important goals. As a centre

midfielder. Yes I think she has done well. She did well defensively.

She wasn't able to get the late runs in to sup fort forwards, but

from set pieces they have shown they're masters and I would do for

her. I have been impressed with her, but Sawa from that performance to

step up in a big game. Wambach could almost play in men's football,

if I'm allowed to say that, she is that strong. All credit to Japan

that they managed to stop her. showed size didn't matter, Martin,

we thought the physicalty of the USA would overpower Japan. But

there is Sawa with her fifth goal and wh a crucial goal it was. Her

fifth world cup, her fifth goal and a golden boot. We're getting ready

now for the presentation of the trophy. Let's, there is Abby

Wambach. She has come third, the bronze boot. The golden glove award

going to Hope Solo. Hope Solo's hands delivering the golden glove.

COMMENTATOR: Hope Solo just about raising a smile. Some things have

raised a smile for me. The boos for Sepp Blatter. And for Marta, the

Brazilian who is back home, at the mention she had won the silver

award. Sawa has been up to get the golden boot award and the FIFA fair

play award, espite the red card, Japan getting that FIFA fair play

award that. Is too much for Hope sow low. She goes to get another

award. I think that is the best player of the tournament. No the

bronze ball, the third best player at the tournament. Abby Wambach

getting the silver ball award. We know who the winner is going to be,

Homare Sawa of Japan. Getting all the minor awards out of the way.

Look at Hope Solo, she is inconsolable. Here is Homare Sawa,

golden ball, golden boot, Japan's golden player. And se has lacked

surprised every time she has been called upon to take the podium.

They have won it fairly, with some style and with a great deal of lieu

millty. They have made a lot of friends along the way. -- humility.

They have won the fair play award, pause that is the way they play.

They play and they pass the ball and play with smiles on their faces.

Something we mentioned a few times and has been mentioned extensively,

Japan after the heartache and tragedy of march's - March's earl

earthquake and tsunami, the count tri -- count trihas at least had a

sporting lift. A sport only played nationally by an organised national

team since 198. The rise of Japanese women's football has been

remarkable. -- 1986. Delegates from Europe and England played a key

part in getting them off the ground in the 1980s. And goodness me they

have accelerated. They have overtaken and beaten the lot in

this World Cup. The lot except England - we should get that in!

Like Fay says it shows how far I think have come. They're close to

these teams, they have beaten them and it is only good for women's

football in our country and the world. Just looking at the USA

going up for their second placed medals, it is not good feeling.

some of the player, Boxx, Wambach and Solo it might be their last

chance. They grew up watching their idols win this thing. Now, well it

looks as though they're destined to be the generation that misses out.

I think this generation feels that is constantly put down their

throats about the 1999 team and how good they were. But this is a good

team and they have done well. They have had the rub of the green as we

have gone along to beat Brazil and score in extra time to equalise and

win on penalties and do well on penalties, but not so well tonight.

These are good play irs and the margin between success and --

players and the margin between success and failure is so tight.

Pia Sundhage will be fleg Mattick about it all once the dust has

settled. We did catch a few words with her before the presentation

serplonies began. She couldn't put a finger -- ceremonies began. She

couldn't put her finger on why the team lost. But tonight the rub of

the green was not with them. The usual nerves of steel at the back

weren't with them. As Lucy has said, they have won so many friends doing

it. Stylish football on the floor football. They have done it the