Fearless Predictions - Women's World Cup - The Final

The final step in a month long football marathon is upon us as the Women's World Cup is set to be decided by the United States and Japan. Both teams have had their share of ups and downs during the tournament but now they are a mere ninety minutes from the title.

The Final

The United States enter the final as slight favorites against Japan. In their two recent friendlies the United States have defeated Japan, but many pundits have claimed that Japan have completely revamped their footballing style and the pre-World Cup Japan is very different from this current edition of the team.

Keys For The United States

BE PHYSICAL - The United States are much, much bigger than their Japanese counterparts. With Abby Wambach spearheading the attacking, her jumping and leaping ability is a massive advantage for the Americans.

NO EARLY LETDOWNS - Contrary to Brazil, Japan have closed at the Women's World Cup. More than half of Japan's goals at the World Cup have been scored in the first twenty minutes, so if Japan can grab an early goal they do have the ability to close the game. The US would be wise to not allow that early goal.

THE HOPE ADVANTAGE - The best goalkeeper in the world plays for the Americans in the form of Hope Solo. Even though she does wear make-up during the match, which is incredibly weird, Solo has a massive mental advantage if the final goes to penalties.

Keys For Japan

DO WHAT YOU DO WELL - This means that Japan should continue their slick and short passing game and not resort to the long ball approach that Brazil attempted in the quarterfinal. Japan have the technical ability and speed to trouble the American's more physical midfield and could open up holes in that defense, which in my opinion is slow and prone to mistakes.

CONTROLLED AGGRESSION - Similar to how Sweden beat the United States in the group stage, the Japanese need to be aggressive against the United States without picking up pointless yellow cards. Sweden really surprised the United States with their aggression and Japan would be wise to continue that trend.

ENJOY THE MOMENT  - This is Japan's first World Cup final, they should enjoy the moment. By playing for a country that has been devastated by a tsunami, Japan have captured the hearts of fans everywhere looking for a lovable 'underdog.' The longer the match continues scoreless, the greater the chance that Japan could pull the surprise.

Posts By Panos Thoughts

The United States are too strong for most teams in women's football. The mindset of the American athlete is unbelievable, case in point the United States' last minute tying goal against Brazil. Japan are the underdogs, but if they enjoy their football and play with very little nerves they do have a fighter's chance. My heart is cheering for Japan, but my mind is telling me the United States win comfortably.

United States - Japan (2-0)


Fearless Predictions
20-11