Japan has taken 3rd place in the FIFA Under 20 Women’s World Cup, after defeating the United States by 1 goal to nil yesterday.
Substitute Mami Ueno’s goal in the 87th minute crushed the United States.
For both teams, this was a chance at redemption
The Japanese were favourites against France in the semis however became undone by two quick goals late in extra time. But their final match in PNG was another opportunity to prove they were a world class outfit.
The American side on the other hand, had fought the hard way to get to the playoffs.
Both sides had met in May, with the Japanese running away with 5 goals to nil in that mid-year friendly.
But the 3rd and 4th playoff was a different setting altogether in this FIFA U-20 Women’s World Cup.
The American side, playing expansively, with the Young Nadeshikos’ trademark curt passing spreading their oppositions defence.
It looked to go to extra time, however, substitute Mami Euno scored with a floating ball over Casey Murphy with three minutes of regulation time remaining.
Japan departed at 9am this morning, full of smiles and happy with the experience of playing in PNG.
