2011 Women's World Cup Final Report: USA v Japan

This 2011 Women's World Cup final embodied the drama, sorrow, and elation that earned soccer its moniker as "the beautiful game." Abby Wambach, who three matches earlier was branded an injury risk, was in her usual inspirational form with each match. Wambach scored decisive goals in the two preceding matches against Brazil and France. True to form the towering striker scored another crucial goal when her nation needed it: in overtime.

A 0-0 scoreline at halftime foreshadowed the drama to come. Lauren Cheney made way for Alex Morgan who represented the only change in a Starting XI that nearly scored three times in 45 minutes. Morgan strategically imposed her presence as a lead striker with Abby Wambach playing a deeper role. Ultimately, the California native opened her account in the 69 minute.

Japan's Aya Miyama pulled back a goal to keep the match interesting. Her 80th minute contribution left American jaws agape and Japanese fans smiling.

Miyama's effort simultaneously underscored the USWNT's fragile defense. Rachel Buehler, back from one match suspension, flailed at a tricky cross to no avail. Ali Kreiger, who scored the winning penalty against Brazil, was unable to clean up her teammate's error.

The high drama continued with two overtime goals from Abby Wambach and Homare Sawa. Despite the parity in scoreline, onlookers could see Japan was gaining strength.

However, penalty kicks dealt a permanent blow to America's heroines. With two early misses, Saki Kumagai eventually ended the USWNT quest for victory. One camera captured Pia Sundhage's pursed lips and sullen gaze in a moment that conveyed the thoughts of 11 American women standing arm in arm at midfield.

Verdict: A few of USWNT players will probably have rattled nerves they next time they don red, white, and blue. However, the match is an aberration in a tournament where America consistently proved it had heart. Still, Japan deserved to win as the USWNT defense crumbled before imploding during penalties.

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