The formerly one-sided rivalry became closer in the period following Japan's upset penalty shoot-out win in the 2011 FIFA Women's World Cup Final. Even while contesting three major tournament finals in four years, the teams' rivalry remained conspicuously respectful. In the immediate aftermath of the 2011 final, Carli Lloyd graciously congratulated the winners. While Aya Miyama delayed her participation in the celebrations to hug her defeated opponents.