With Sunday’s thrilling World Cup title match between the United States and Japan coming down to penalty kicks, an air of anticipation and nervous energy was most likely palpable across both countries.
When Japan emerged victorious, defeating the US in the penalty kick showdown, it undoubtedly set off quite a reaction in Japan. This was a game that looked destined for a US victory, as Japan waited a long time to come back and tie the game twice, forcing overtime and eventually penalty kicks.
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ESPN.com posted a recap of the Japan women’s soccer team’s return to their homeland, where they are now national heroes. It looked for a while that the US would win, especially when Alex Morgan tipped in a goal toward the end of the second half, but the Japanese team showed its resilience, fighting back and tying the game twice.
This world championship has a chance to serve as a boost to Japan’s national spirit, as the country is still recovering from the earthquake/tsunami that hit in March.
Watch the video below to catch a glimpse of CNN’s coverage of the team’s triumphant return home.
If that link doesn’t work, try this higher quality video hosted on CNN’s site.
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