Jul14

Japan into the Women’s World Cup Final 2011 by Beating Sweden

Posted by James on Jul 14, 2011 in Football, Sports | 0 comments

Japan see off Sweden 3-1 to set up a Women’s World Cup Final 2011 clash with the USA.

Japan were up against Sweden who had yet to lose a game in the Women’s World Cup Final 2011 so far, but let’s not forget how Japan overcame the favorites Germany.

Sweden were dealt a huge blow before kick off however when their captain Caroline Seger, who has been inspirational so far, had to withdraw with a calf problem.

The game kicked off in conditions which had seen heavy rain, not that it dampened the spirit of the large crowd who had turned out to see the game (perhaps thinking that Germany would be playing?).

It would be Sweden who struck first however, Josefine Oqvist intercepted a pass in midfield and surged into the penalty box where a fiercely struck shot ripped into the corner of the goal.

Japan struck back when a cross from the left seemly hit both the Japanese and Swedish players at the same time, eventually trickling into the net.

The Japanese came close to adding a second in the second half when a dipping shot from Ohno hit the crossbar, they were certainly having the better of the game.

The second goal eventually came when the ball was played dangerously into the six yard box where the goalkeeper managed to get a touch, pushing the ball away from one Japanese player but only into the path of Homare Sawa. She had the simple task of heading the ball into the net for her 4th goal of the tournament so far.

The best was saved for last though. The Swedish goalkeeper, Lindahl came out to deal with a though ball but only managed to punch it to Nahomi Kawasumi.

Seeing that the goalkeeper was well off her line the quick thinking Japanese player hit a 35 yard lob right into the corner of the goal to her obvious delight.

Sweden struggled to make any real chances throughout the game and Japan once again came out deserved winners on the night.

For Japan it will be the first time that they have reached the Women’s World Cup Final and it is a great achievement. In fact, it is the first time any Asian side has made the World Cup Final.

The game will take place on Sunday against the USA and we understand it will be broadcast live in most countries.