Japan Won Women Football World Cup 2011

Japan won the 2011 Women’s World Cup on Sunday, defeating the United States 3-1 in a penalty shootout. The country became the first Asian nation to win the World Cup.The Japanese team, which provided much-needed inspiration and emotional relief for their fellow citizens at home who are still recovering from a devastating recent earthquake, tsunami and nuclear accident, displayed a banner after every game reading: “To our Friends Around the World — Thank You for Your Support.”The United States, which was not considered a favorite to win the tournament this year, made a dramatic rebound after it eliminated Brazil in a penalty-kick during the quarterfinals, raising hopes that the team might bring the cup home for the third time.Team USA dominated much of Sunday’s final game in Frankfurt, Germany. Alex Morgan scored the team’s first goal in the 69th minute. But Japan tied the game when Aya Miyama scored an equalizer 12 minutes later. The Americans took the lead again during over time in the 104th minute when Abby Wambach made a goal with a header. But they blew the lead just six minutes from winning their third World Cup title when Homare Sawa of Japan scored another equalizer.

The U.S. had previously won the Women’s World Cup in 1991 and 1999.

Japan’s World Cup victory also marks the nation’s first win against the U.S. in 26 tries.

Japan Team Images