The Road to the Promised Land: Chapter 36

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== SheBelieves Cup Final ==
Craven Cottage, London, UK
Tuesday March 5
10:45 PM GMT
Following the match against Liverpool on Saturday, Manchester United didn't have too much time to rest as they traveled to London on the following Monday. Then United defeated Fulham at Craven Cottage by a score of 3-0 with Kakeru scoring the opening goal and assisting the other 2 goals. Before Kakeru was to leave the stadium and be on his way back to Manchester with the rest of his team, he sent Nana a few words of support ahead of an important match in the SheBelieves Cup.
"Best of luck tonight, Seven. Make sure to come back with a winner's medal." Kakeru texted.
At the other end of the communication in the United States, Nana replied: "We will go for it." 
"But most important: come back in one piece." Kakeru texted. 
"Thanks, Kakeru. That was a great win against Fulham. Gotta go now. -XXX" 
'I know you can do this, Seven. This is one big step you can make on the international stage.' Kakeru thought.
"Wishing good luck to Nana?" Yusuke asked.
"Yeah. She will need a lot of it over there." Kakeru replied.
"Nadeshiko Japan are the underdogs for that one. It will be tough."
"I know, but she knows a lot about being the underdog... just as I do."
"This would be big if she can lead the team to the Cup." Yusuke said.
"Definitely. This is why I will stand 200% behind her tonight." Kakeru finished.
The SheBelieves Cup match was set to start a little over 1:00 AM in the UK (8:00 PM on the American East Coast). Luckily for Kakeru, a day off given for the following day to all players who started the match. Hence, Kakeru was going to watch the match from his place upon his return.
United States WNT vs. Nadeshiko Japan (SheBelieves Cup match 3)
Orlando City Stadium, Orlando, Florida
Before the SheBelieves Cup was established in 2016, the main yearly invitational tournament for national teams in women’s football was the Algarve Cup. However, the small stature of the Algarve Cup, the remote location of the Portugal-based tournament, and the struggles for regular TV coverage prompted the US Soccer federation to create their own annual invitational tournament on American soil with the purpose of inviting some of the best national teams in the world. Since the first edition of the SheBelieves Cup, the tournament is now regarded as a mainstay event that helps growing the women's game. Although the tournament takes place at the same time most European professional leagues enter crucial months in their respective campaigns, agreements in place allow all female players to be released for international duty in this tournament as well as for other tournaments.
The SheBelieves Cup was contested by the same 4 teams: United States, England, France, and Germany. But for this recent edition of the tournament, Japan and Brazil have been invited as replacements for Germany and France. All 4 participating teams participate in 3 doubleheader events at 3 different venues over a seven-day period. The winner of the tournament is determined by the team that won most points at the end of the 3-match round robin. In the case 2 teams are tied on points, final standings are then determined by the following order of criteria: goal difference, goals scored, head-to-head points, head-to-head goal difference, head-to-head number of goals scored, and FIFA rankings.
So far, Nadeshiko Japan defeated England (2-1 in Chester; February 27) and Brazil (3-1 in Nashville; March 2). However, the United States Women's National Soccer Team (USWNT) also won their respective matches against Brazil (3-0 in Chester; February 27) and England (2-1 in Nashville; March 2). As a result, goal differential was in favor of the United States. The only way Japan could hope to win the tournament was to beat the heavy favorites in what ended up as a final in itself. Having met several times in highly anticipated matches, including 2011 and 2015 FIFA Women's World Cup finals, and the 2012 London Olympics final, Nadeshiko Japan and the USWNT were about to write another chapter of this international rivalry.
For this match, your match commentators are Takumi Okada and former Nadeshiko Japan striker Makiko Yurikawa.
Takumi Okada: It is one of the biggest matchups in international women's soccer. No matter where the match takes place, you can feel the tension in the air every single time. Am I right, Yurikawa-san?
Makiko Yurikawa: You're right on that, Okada-san. When I played for Nadeshiko Japan, that rivalry wasn't yet at the level it is now. We have seen lots of confrontations of high intensity between Nadeshiko Japan and America over the years since the 2011 World Cup final. I expect this one to be hardly fought as well.
Since the day Nana first joined Nadeshiko Japan, the team went under several changes. A number of players who featured in Nana's debut still remain in the squad in various roles, but the majority of the stalwarts from the 2011 World Cup-winning squad had already retired from international duty. Saki Kumagai, who scored the decisive penalty in the 2011 Women's World Cup final, is the current captain. Mina Nakae, who was 22 when Nana first joined the team at age 15, is also a veteran now. Other veterans like Taeko Isshiki, Mizuho Sakaguchi, Rumi Utsugi, and Sakura Otsuki were brought to support the younger players, but don't see too much action these days. Younger players like Yui Hasegawa, Hina Sugita, Risa Shimizu, Saori Takarada, and Jun Endo have been brought in the squad so the likes of Nana and Mai can eventually build group chemistry that would come in handy for several years to come. 
Nadeshiko Japan started with the following 4-4-2 lineup: Ayaka Yamashita (#18; goalkeeper). Risa Shimizu (#22; right-back), Mina Nakae (#5; centre-back), Saki Kumagai (#4; captain and centre-back), Aya Sameshima (#3; left-back), Chika Nakamura (#11; right winger), Nana Mishima (#7; central midfielder), Hina Sugita (#6; central midfielder), Yui Hasegawa (#14; left winger), Mai Murasaki (#9; striker), and Mana Iwabuchi (#8; striker).
On the other hand, the USWNT had the following 4-3-3 lineup with a number of strong: Alyssa Naeher (#1; goalkeeper), Kelley O'Hara (#5; right-back), Abby Dahlkemper (#7; centre-back), Becky Sauerbrunn (#4; centre-back), Crystal Dunn (#19; left-back), Rose Lavelle (#16; central midfielder), Julie Ertz (#8; central midfielder), Sam Mewis (#3; central midfielder), Tobin Heath (#17; right forward), Alex Morgan (#13; striker), and Megan Rapinoe (#15; left forward and captain).
A little over 8:00 PM EST (1:00 AM GMT), players from both teams were waiting in the tunnel for the referee's signal to come onto the pitch. As it is often the case, the USWNT field players wore all-white kits with American flag motifs on the shirts while Nadeshiko Japan field players wore their all-blue kits. Not many words were exchanged between the 2 sides, but one player from Nadeshiko Japan was quite a person of interest for a little chat with an American acquaintance.
"You look quite determined, Mishima."
"Alex Morgan. The last time I saw you, it was during last season at Old Trafford. You were a spectator in the stands for the day." Nana said.
"And you scored the late winner back then. That was quite a delightful moment." Morgan replied. "But with all due respect, I don't need to play against men to prove myself as one of the best."
"Not just against any group of men, Alex. It's the Premier League - the toughest soccer league in the world." Nana retorted.
"I always wonder though. Did you ever look back and regret not choosing to play for the US a little?" Morgan asked. "After all, you were born as an American, and you could have won both the World Cup and the Olympics with us by now."
"Never in a million years. I found my place in Japan, I'm writing my own legend on my own terms, and I won the whole thing back in 2011. That is a lot better than being looked at as the next Babe Ruth of women’s soccer in the US like when I was only 11 or 12."
"Back in 2011, you were an unused substitute aged 16 years and a half. Nothing beats playing in a final when you win the World Cup or the Olympics."
"Perhaps, but I was brought in at the time to give Japan a shot in the arm. In the end, it worked and I also got my winner's medal." Nana said.
"Well, good luck to you. You will need it on my own backyard." Alex said.
"I make my own luck." Nana finished.
Both teams were then given the go to walk towards the playing surface under the loud cheers from the sellout crowd of 25,500 for the match. Although the stadium was mostly filled with supporters wearing American colors, the presence of Nana and Mai with Nadeshiko Japan drew a number of Manchester United and Chelsea supporters from all over Florida. A group of Manchester United supporters from Orlando were particularly vocal in the stands by being both pro-Nana and pro-Japan
Following the national anthems, the USWNT won the coin toss, and chose to let Nadeshiko Japan kicking things off. Upon the watch of the French referee, Nana and Mai were set to go.
"Ganbare, Seven and Mai-chan!" Kakeru said.
Kakeru was watching the match alone at his place. Yusuke was too tired from his journey back from London that he crashed in his own bed right after he got home.
Takumi Okada: And we are now under way in the SheBelieves Cup final!
Upon kickoff, Mai passed the ball backwards to Nana, who then passed backwards to the advancing Risa. After the 4 Japanese defenders kept passing the ball between themselves for a few seconds, Saki launched a long aerial ball intended to reach Mai ahead. Unfortunately, Mai was put under pressure by Sauerbrunn, and accidentally headed the ball out on the touchline. Right from the start, Nadeshiko Japan conceded a throw-in for the Americans.
Takumi Okada: Dunn will take the throw-in.
Dunn threw the ball for Ertz, who then kicked a long ball into the Japanese half. Going for the ball in the air, Alex Morgan managed to reach it before Saki could get there. The ball then bounced off Morgan to reach Tobin Heath a few yards ahead.
Takumi Okada: On by Heath... Rapinoe is calling for it on the other side...
Despite Aya's presence and despite Hina's defensive hustle, Heath had space to cross the long ball to the left. The cross arrived into the feet of Rapinoe on the opposite flank, and she finished the play by sweeping the ball beyond the helpless Japanese goalkeeper and into the net.
Takumi Okada: Megan Rapinoe coming in… and a goal! And America opened the score inside 45 seconds. It's the quickest goal in the short history of the SheBelieves Cup final. Megan Rapinoe with the captain's goal.
"COME ON!" Rapinoe shouted.
"Great start, Pinoe! Big goal!" Morgan congratulated her long-time partner in crime with the USWNT.
Makiko Yurikawa: Well, Risa Shimizu got dragged in so early in this move. Look at Shimizu's position: she's too close to the middle, and she has her eyes on Alex Morgan. Rapinoe makes the call on the left side a few times, but there was no reaction from Shimizu whatsoever. You cannot leave a player of the quality of Megan Rapinoe with that much space and time, because this is what happens. She is a threat, and she will use every bit of space you give to her.
Takumi Okada: Certainly not the start Nadeshiko Japan hoped for, but it's a very good start for America.
Meanwhile in West Didsbury:
"Come on, Nadeshiko! Pick it up!" Kakeru shouted all lout.
The Nadeshiko Japan players were surprised to concede the first goal that early in the match, but they also knew that the best way to counter the early setback was to establish some momentum on the attack. A few minutes later, Nadeshiko Japan launched a first serious threat on goal with a play that started with a throw-in for the Japanese deep into American territory.
In the 6th minute:
Takumi Okada: Throw-in taken by Nakamura for Shimizu. Long cross in by Shimizu...
The long diagonal cross from the Japanese right-back was intended towards Mana at the far post, but Dahlkemper intervened by heading the ball away. However, Mana's body positioning forced the American defender to precipitate her clearance right towards the edge of the penalty area where the Little Witch was ready to unleash a shot.
Takumi Okada: That was intended for Iwabuchi, and this is Nana Mishima...
Nana struck a low shot that was set to roll off the mark to Naeher's left, but the most dangerous player in the area was Mai, who managed to sneak past her markers. Fortunately for the Americans, Mai barely missed the toe poke, and the ball rolled behind for a goal kick.
Makiko Yurikawa: Ohh!
Takumi Okada: Murasaki goes for it, and that was right across the face of goal!
Makiko Yurikawa: Murasaki was just a whisker away of poking that one in. Alyssa Naeher was left stranded. Mishima's pass/shot came so close. Look at where Murasaki was lurking. She couldn't get to the ball, but only by a small margin.
While Mai was rueing the missed opportunity, she showed Nana a thumbs-up sign to acknowledge the attempted pass.
"That wasn't bad, Witch." Mai said.
"I will serve it right to your feet next time." Nana replied.
"It was just a whisker way. Let's keep on pushing, girls!" Saki rallied her teammates.
Nadeshiko Japan continued to try controlling the match through skill and intelligent passes, but an experienced team such as the USWNT made it hard for the Nadeshiko to penetrate in the dangerous areas. Furthermore, the Americans had enough skill on their side to make any given opportunity count on the scoreboard.
In the 13th minute:
Takumi Okada: Given away by Sauerbrunn to Sugita. Now, it's Nana Mishima on the attack... She has support arriving
Following Hina's interception, the following pass came into Nana's feet. The Little Witch charged with the ball forward, meeting with boos from American supporters that she has endured since she chose Japan over USA in the past. After her run led into the final third of the pitch, Nana passed the ball to Mai just in front of the American penalty area. However, Mai was quickly caught up by several American players, and ended up losing the ball despite some fancy footwork to try keeping the ball. At that moment, Ertz pushed the ball the other way for Lavelle.
Takumi Okada: Julie Ertz comes out with the ball. Now it goes to Rose Lavelle. America can be dangerous on counterattacks.
Lavelle ran several yards ahead before she passed the ball to her right and ahead to Morgan. As Morgan entered into the Japanese penalty area, she made a feint to shake off left-back Aya, and then cut towards the inside. With a good angle for shot with her favored left foot, Morgan blasted a rocket that flew past the goalkeeper's fingertips and into the top corner. Suddenly, the very partisan crowd erupted for the second time on the night.
Takumi Okada: Alex Morgan, 0-2! Alex Morgan has doubled America's lead, and Nadeshiko Japan got themselves in a deep hole already. It's the number 13 who scores on the 13th minute.
Makiko Yurikawa: One of America's strengths is to hit opponents on the counterattack, and we have another example here. Murasaki found herself quickly closed down by 2-3 players in white. And then the ball was moved up quickly from Ertz to Lavelle, and to Morgan. You have to give credit to Alex Morgan for shaking off Sameshima, quickly chopping it back to that left foot, and blasting the shot. No chance for Yamashita on that shot.
"Well done, Alex! Great goal." Rapinoe congratulated Alex Morgan.
"Thanks, Pinoe! That was a nice pass too."
"We have them where we want them to be. Let's keep on going." Rapinoe said.
Meanwhile, it was a tough moment for the Japanese, who saw their world collapsing before the first quarter of an hour was gone. Nana, who has had experience in dealing with tough situations at Manchester United, was mostly disappointed at the way the back line dealt with American attacks thus far.
"Give us a chance, for crying out loud! We can't carry on if you defend like that. WAKE UP AND SMELL THE COFFEE! DO YOUR JOB!" Nana angrily shouted.
"She's right! We need to do better. FOCUS!" Nadeshiko Japan captain Saki Kumagai rallied her defensive partners.
Meanwhile in West Didsbury:
"What the hell are they doing at the back? Nana is right to be pissed off right there." Kakeru asked.
Using the momentum that was provided by the 2-goal lead, the Americans came back with another serious attack within the following 2 minutes – in the 15th minute. Once again, it originated from a loose ball that was retrieved by the Americans inside their own half.
Takumi Okada: Sugita heads the ball down. It comes forward for Mishima.
Nana attempted to start an attack in the American half, but Julie was closing down quickly on her. As a result, Nana precipitated a pass towards Yui on the left flank. Yui then tried to run past O'Hara, but the American stripped the ball away before she started a counterattack. O'Hara then passed the ball forward to Lavelle. The American midfield engine ran just across the halfway line when she spotted the Japanese goalkeeper well ahead of her goal. Immediately, she decided to fire a long lobbed shot from the middle of the pitch.
Takumi Okada: Lavelle has seen Yamashita off her line...
Lavelle's long ball had both range and pace, and it appeared that it would dip right on cue into the net. However, Ayaka Yamashita just managed to fall back in time, and stopped the ball.
Takumi Okada: That was a very important save by Yamashita. She was alive enough to get to that long shot from Rose Lavelle.
Makiko Yurikawa: You have to wonder when Nadeshiko Japan will get started. Even if they just avoided falling behind by 3 goals, they have been unable to apply any sustained pressure in the final third of the pitch.
Although the Nadeshiko Japan players had a moment of relief, they really hated witnessing the young American midfielder toying with them in such manner. As if the Japanese players needed to find a spark or the mentality of a wounded animal, Nana summed everything up in her thoughts:
'I have enough of this. If they want us to go all out, they will get it.'
Then Nadeshiko Japan launched a more penetrating attack for the first time at long, long last.
In the 19th minute:
Takumi Okada: Sugita... She gets past Rose Lavelle. Now Mishima...
Controlling the ball into American territory, Hina managed to hold her ground against Lavelle's defensive pressure to pass the ball to Nana on the left. Once again, the boos rained on Nana as she touched the ball. Looking for options beyond the white shirts, only one person stood in front with her shoulders in line with the last defender.
"Witch!" Mai called for a pass.
Nana immediately passed the through ball into Mai's path for goal.
Takumi Okada: Good ball for Murasaki. Is this the moment?
Mai didn't have a direct path on goal, and was forced to aim for a diagonal shot. Nevertheless, the blonde Japanese striker shot the ball past Alyssa Naeher. Unfortunately, something unexpected happened.
Takumi Okada: It's blocked on the line by Sauerbrunn! It comes back in front again... 
Sauerbrunn kicked the ball in the opposite direction to prevent the goal, but the ball bounced back towards a dangerous area where Nana followed up.
Takumi Okada: Mishima! Stopped by Naeher! The ball comes out... and the referee says goal kick.
Nana attempted a point blank shot, but Alyssa Naeher used her whole body to stop the shot before the ball bounced off Nana's leg, and rolled behind to safety. The USWNT came out unharmed by that play in the end.
"Shimatta! (Damn it!)" Nana cursed.
"They were lucky." Mai said.
"Good attempt." Yui acknowledged the quality effort.
"Yeah, we can find the gaps if we keep working." Nana replied.
Although Nadeshiko Japan didn't succeed in finding the back of the net in the midst of the previous chance, the daughters of the Land of the Rising Sun had no intention of stopping in their quest to cut down the American 2-goal lead piece by piece.
In the 24th minute:
Takumi Okada: Dunn with the throw... Rapinoe... Mewis... Her pass touches Sugita.
As Mewis attempted to do something with the ball, she attempted a pass sideways to a teammate in midfield. However, Hina got a toe poke on the ball, which then was flicked by Nana for Mai. Showing her back to an American defender, Mai returned the ball to the advancing Nana to start advancing with more momentum in the run.
Takumi Okada: Nadeshiko Japan are on the attack again with Mishima.
As Nana arrived within less than 30 yards from goal, Julie Ertz stood in the way, and tried to push the Little Witch in a wide position where the latter would not be a danger. However, Nana suddenly shifted her run towards the middle, and forced Julie Ertz to stick the leg out.
Takumi Okada: Mishima stumbles on Ertz, but carries on...
Nana was caught by Julie Ertz's leg, but managed to get back up on her feet as the referee played the advantage. Without any hesitation, Nana decided to go for a long-range shot like she trained to do so many times against men.
Takumi Okada: Mishima... HAS A GO! Tipped by Naeher onto the post...
Nana's shot had plenty of pace, but Alyssa Naeher just put enough of a glove on the shot to prevent a goal. However, the ball bounced off the post, and then rolled back in front of the 6-yard box with the goalkeeper out of position. Mai got to the loose ball first, but her instant strike was blocked by Dahlkemper's leg. As a result the ball bounced behind for a corner kick.
Takumi Okada: Dahlkemper blocks Murasaki's shot, and it goes behind. It is a corner.
Makiko Yurikawa: Well, we all know Nana Mishima can hit those powerful shots. She has shown her ability in the Premier League. Mishima gets tripped by Julie Ertz, but stays up and carries on with the shot. It took everything for Alyssa Naeher to deflect that ball onto the post. And then Murasaki came in, and she was onside as she went for the rebound. Unfortunately, Dahlkemper got enough of a touch on Murasaki's shot to put it wide.
Meanwhile on the Japanese bench, it was disbelief among most players:
"I was sure that was going in." Saori said.
"I can't believe we missed that." Jun added.
"I know we were unlucky, but we have to keep pushing now at all costs." Taeko replied.
"I hope you're right, but it has not been our day so far." Mizuho said.
"I know Nana-chan and Mai-chan. The experience they have gained from playing against men at the highest level taught them one very important thing beyond skills: never give up at all." Taeko finished.
At the very same time in West Didsbury:
"Ah! So close! Keep trying, it's good!" Kakeru said.
With Nadeshiko Japan doing most of the attack for several minutes, it could be easy for anybody to forget the quality of the opponent. One of the players on the USWNT was about to remind everyone why that team is one of the very best and most consistent national sides in the women's game.
In the 28th minute:
Takumi Okada: Shimizu with the cross... It's headed away by Sauerbrunn.
After a failed attempt to attack the American goal, the headed ball went to Alex Morgan almost to the middle of the pitch. Morgan then made a small back pass to the advancing Lavelle, who then passed the ball back to Morgan. The following pass then cut between 2 Japanese defenders to reach the captain Rapinoe, who was dashing down the Japanese right wing.
Takumi Okada: America on the counterattack. Morgan has found Rapinoe. Lavelle is making a break...
Finding her spot, Rapinoe passed the ball into the middle and into Lavelle's run. The American midfielder was beating her nearest opponent for speed, and took advantage of a gap in the Japanese defense. Despite Saki's efforts to close down on Lavelle, the American midfielder took a shot from outside the box.
Takumi Okada: There could be a problem here! Lavelle...
The shot had pace, but Ayaka Yamashita perfectly timed her dive to get her right hand on the shot. The ball then bounced to a position for the Japanese defenders to recover and continue the play in the opposite direction.
Takumi Okada: Great save by Yamashita! Wonderful stop!
Meanwhile on the Japanese bench:
"Good stop, Ayaka-san!" Rumi shouted.
"I have never been happier to see her make a save than now." Jun added.
"She saved us big time there. It's up to the girls in front of her to start making shots count." Taeko replied before she turned her shout to her teammates on the field. "Keep attacking! Don't stop!" 
Although the save should have served as a morale booster for the Nadeshiko Japan players, the last American attack cooled off the Nadeshiko's ambitions instead. For several minutes, no one really took a crack at the other side's goal. However, time in the first half was running out. With an increasing sense of urgency, the Nadeshiko moved forward. They had to take more risks in order to plant a seed of doubt before halftime.
In the 44th minute:
Takumi Okada: Lavelle tries to shake off Sugita... can't. Sugita steals the ball away. She finds Hasegawa on the left.
In an attempted counterattack, Lavelle got the ball taken away from her by Hina. The Japanese midfielder then passed the ball to Yui, who pushed the attack forward and on the left. Then Yui slowed down the play for a couple of seconds for Aya to make a luring run on the left wing. It allowed Yui to bend her run onto her right before she made a pass to Mana, who stood with her back to goal.
Takumi Okada: Hasegawa finds Iwabuchi.
Having to deal with the bigger Becky Sauerbrunn nearby, Mana slid the ball back towards Nana. Ertz tried to tackle the ball away, but Nana managed to drag the ball away from Ertz's missed tackle. Then the Little Witch saw Mai in a good position before she made a short through pass.
Takumi Okada: Mishima drags it away from Ertz... and IT'S IN FOR MURASAKI...
Nana's through pass had the perfect weight on it, and Mai found herself all alone with the goalkeeper. With disconcerting ease, Mai slipped the ball above the goalkeeper Naeher and into the back of the net. And suddenly, it was game on for Nadeshiko Japan!
Takumi Okada: GOOOAAL!!! The woman who plays for the big club at Chelsea has cut the deficit to one goal for Nadeshiko Japan!
"YEAH, COME ON!!!" Kakeru jumped off his seat in West Didsbury.
That goal late in the first half cast a shadow in the minds of the American supporters. It was almost total silence except for a small number of spectators inside the stadium.
"Get in! Well done!" Nana congratulated Mai.
"Great link-up, girls!" Chika added.
"Thanks! Nice pass, Witch. You surprised everyone with that." Mai acknowledged the brilliant play from her teammate.
"Thanks, Mai-chan."
"They are just human. We can go and tie this. Let's go, girls!" Saki rallied her teammates.
Makiko Yurikawa: They knocked, and knocked, and knocked. And finally, the door has been opened. It all started with a good defensive effort from Hina Sugita on Rose Lavelle. It's a turnover. After that, it was all in the buildup with so few touches: from Sugita to Hasegawa, to Iwabuchi, to Mishima, and into Murasaki. Not a Japanese player takes more than 2 touches of the ball, and Murasaki was not going to miss an easy ball in front of goal. Nadeshiko Japan are back in this match.
Mai's goal provided the momentum boost Nadeshiko Japan desperately needed. Knowing that the seed of doubt had been planted in the minds of the USWNT players, the Japanese players certainly intended to make full advantage of the situation by mounting another attack in the lone minute of injury time before the halftime whistle.
Takumi Okada: Sameshima has the ball... She passes ahead to Hasegawa.
In the American half, Aya passed the ball ahead for Yui. The Japanese left winger came up facing Kelley O'Hara, and then turned up the pace to arrive at the side of the American penalty area.
Takumi Okada: Hasegawa runs past O'Hara with some pace. She finds Mishima inside the penalty area...
The ball arrived inside the penalty area, but Nana had to deal with Lavelle closing in from behind and with 2 American defenders trying to block shooting lanes. The Little Witch only had a few seconds to ponder her options.
Takumi Okada: Mishima holds the ball. She turns, but can't shoot...
Looking for options, Nana spotted the running Chika. At the right split second, Nana passed the ball in the area by the penalty spot, and Chika immediately unleashed the one-timer shot while Mai acted as a screen of some sort in front of Alyssa Naeher.
Takumi Okada: She finds NAKAMURA! It's off the crossbar! This time, it's the woodwork coming to save America.
The ball unfortunately struck right onto the crossbar, and bounced out for a goal kick, much to the disappointment of the Nadeshiko Japan players both on the pitch and on the bench.
Makiko Yurikawa: It started with a great run by Yui Hasegawa. She gets past Kelley O'Hara with a change of pace, and then finds Mishima. Nana Mishima manages to hold the ball against 2-3 white shirts before she lays off that ball in a good position for Nakamura. Unfortunately for her, the ball flies right into the crossbar.
Takumi Okada: This could be the last action before halftime.
In fact, that last attack was the last significant action of the first half. After Alyssa Naeher took the goal kick, the referee blew the halftime whistle. Although Nadeshiko Japan started the match very poorly, they managed to hold off the USWNT before launching a number of attacks that finally cut the deficit down to a single goal. Both teams knew that the next 45 minutes would be long ones to come.
Meanwhile in West Didsbury:
"Down only one goal. Everything is still possible, Seven." Kakeru said.
In Nadeshiko Japan's dressing room, the players were ready for the head coach's speech. Since 2016, the new head coach is a former Nadeshiko Japan player who played mainly in the 1990s: Akane Katsumoto. Having led Japan to the U17 Women's World Cup title while she also provided her input as a special consultant to the team that won the U20 Women's World Cup in 2018, Katsumoto is mainly known for being an excellent teacher of the game who is open on tactical and positional flexibility. There were a few things she was not happy about in the first half, and she was about to make herself clear.
"The good news is that we are still within range of putting the game on terms with them before we go for the win. The problem is that you haven't followed my instructions on defensive positioning in the first half; it was horrible on both American goals. You need to keep bodies between their players and the goal. Keep your eyes open for anyone who comes into the danger areas. If you want to win the cup, hold your ground better. Is that clear?" Akane said.
"HAI! (YES!)" the Nadeshiko players replied.
"For the attack, I want to see more pressure on their back line. Don't be afraid in being creative against them in the final third. They might be tall at the back, but they can't cover everything if we can surprise them with the unexpected. Now, come and take it to them."
"HAI!"
After the pep talk, some of the Nadeshiko Japan players sat down to have a chat about what to do next ahead of the second half.
"I hope you have a few more tricks in the bag for today, Witch." Mai said.
"I will try, but working together is better than any trick to build up that pressure against the Americans." Nana replied.
"We must be ruthless, but we must be clever as well. The first thing they will try to do is to rely on their physical attributes before they exploit their skills on the counterattack." Taeko said.
"Tae-san is right. It's important that we find the right moments to attack. I may not be as quick as I used to be, but I can still pull off a few good runs forward when the opportunity comes up." Chika added.
"OK. We just have to hold things tight at both ends of the pitch, and exploit the open spaces when they appear." Nana replied.
"Let's do this." Mai finished.
Both teams went back on the pitch for the second half. The USWNT kicked off the hostilities for the next period of 45 minutes, and controlled most of the ball for the first 90 seconds. At that moment, the Americans earned a corner kick with the clear intention of regaining their 2-goal cushion.
In the 47th minute:
Takumi Okada: It's a corner for America.
Rapinoe took the corner kick, and sent the ball towards the mass of players in front of the Japanese goal. However, the Japanese goalkeeper managed to grab the ball in the air, and then waited a few seconds before she passed the ball forward to Nana. Nadeshiko Japan went on the counterattack.
Takumi Okada: Mishima is on the attack across the halfway line. She faces Lavelle...
"Come on! Have a go." Lavelle defied Nana.
'You will get it.' Nana thought.
For a few seconds that felt like several minutes, Nana and Lavelle faced each other. Ultimately, Nana surprised the American with a heel-to-heel flick before she went through.
Takumi Okada: She gets past Lavelle. Now it's for Nakamura on the right.
"Nana-chan!" Chika shouted.
Entering at the limit of the attacking third of the pitch, Nana almost immediately completed the give-and-go with Chika to shake off an opponent. At the same time, Sam Mewis tackled Chika down with a late challenge from behind. Unfortunately for Nadeshiko Japan, the referee blew the whistle although the advantage could be given.
Takumi Okada: Nakamura goes down and...
Makiko Yurikawa: Oh, let it go, referee! I don't believe it!
Meanwhile in West Didsbury:
"What? Hey, let the play go!" Kakeru exclaimed.
Back in Orlando, the Nadeshiko Japan players were absolutely livid at the referee who denied the advantage.
"Why? I already passed the ball!" Chika protested.
"J'avais le ballon! C'était quoi, ça? C'est ridicule! (I had the ball! What was that? It's ridiculous!)" Nana added vehemently her own voice to the protests.
"C'était une mauvaise décision. Il y avait avantage (It was a bad decision. There was an advantage)." Saki, who is also decently fluent in French, protested to the referee.
"Il y avait une faute et je dois donner un carton à la joueuse (There was a foul, and I have to book the player)." the French referee brushed away all protests. After that, the referee pulled the yellow card out of her pocket. "Mewis! Mewis, come here! That was a very late tackle. No more of that."
"Oh, come on! She tried to get the ball." Rapinoe tried to plead for her teammate.
"I'm not hearing anymore. That's as late as you can ask." the French referee replied.
Makiko Yurikawa: That's really poor, really poor. I know you want to book her, but book her later.
Takumi Okada: Nana Mishima was furious and with good reason. Sam Mewis takes the yellow card.
Makiko Yurikawa: That's an example of when referees have no idea about the game at all.
Saki guided her teammates to stand ready as the following indirect free kick could be an interesting chance to tie the game at 2 goals apiece.
"You think you can put a good ball in the pack?" Saki asked.
"Yeah, Captain. Just make sure to flood the penalty area with players." Nana replied before she turned towards Mina Nakae. "I know you can get your head on that ball. Go for it."
"OK, Nana-chan." Mina replied.
Then both teams moved into position for the free kick. Everyone knew that the only way to get something out of an indirect free kick with a distance of more than 30 yards from goal would either come from a header or from a scramble in the penalty area. Finally, the signal was given under the booing sounds against Nana.
PEEP!
Takumi Okada: Mishima will take...
Nana took the shot, and let the ball fly towards the area just in front of the "no man's land" in the American penalty area. In the mass of players running either to defend or attack, Mina managed to gain her position in front of her marker. The Japanese defender then jumped in the air, and touched the underside of the ball with her head. Bouncing off Mina's head, the ball then looped into the top corner of the goal. Naeher was left standing in absolute surprise.
Takumi Okada: And IT'S A GOAL! From Mishima to Nakae! It's Mina Nakae's goal! We are now all tied: 2-2!
The first person Mina went to after the goal was Nana.
"Great goal, Mina-san!" Nana said.
"That was a perfect ball! Nice pass, Nana-chan." Mina replied.
"You did it, Mina-san!" Mai congratulated as she jumped over Mina's shoulders in celebration.
"Way to go, Mina! Let's go for the next goal now!" Saki said.
"HAI!" the other Nadeshiko Japan players replied.
Meanwhile in West Didsbury:
"YES! Well done!" Kakeru exclaimed. "Yes! Yes!"
Meanwhile, the American supporters were stunned by what just happened: Nadeshiko Japan came back from behind to wipe out a 2-goal deficit with plenty of time left in the match. Such reaction from the crowd tells that such feat did not happen often in the history of the USWNT.
Makiko Yurikawa: It was a very good ball by Mishima, but what a superb header by Mina Nakae. She just helps the ball on with the right amount of contact on that header, and she knows where the goal is. The pace and the change in direction of the ball baffled Alyssa Naeher completely. It's now anyone's game very early in the second half.
Takumi Okada: From nowhere to parity. Nadeshiko Japan saw America open the score in the first minute of the first half, and now have scored the equalizer in the first 3 minutes of the second half.
Meanwhile, it was jubilation on the Japanese bench.
"Well done, Mina!" Taeko shouted.
"That was beautiful." Mizuho said.
"Yeah, it takes composure to hit a ball with the head like that." Rumi replied.
"We can go on and win this." Saori said.
As much as Megan Rapinoe's early opening goal stung the Japanese very deeply, Mina's goal in the early moments of the second half had the same effect upon the Americans. As a result, Nadeshiko Japan took the ascendancy, and started launching more incisive attacks against the goal defended by their shell-shocked opponents.
In the 50th minute:
Takumi Okada: Retrieved by Shimizu. Now, it's Mishima.
Nana chested the ball down, but had her back against Julie Ertz, who was blocking any direct progress beyond the center circle. Lavelle was also adding defensive pressure against Nana. Without any hesitation, Nana passed the ball to Hina, who then sent a through ball for the running Mai.
Takumi Okada: Sugita... It has gone through for Murasaki. She's got Dahlkemper after her...
Mai was beating the American defenders on speed. She had almost a clear run towards the American goal. However, Dahlkemper managed to stick her leg into the shooting lane as Mai took her shot. The ball was deflected behind for a Japanese corner kick.
Takumi Okada: Blocked by Dahlkemper. It's a corner for Nadeshiko Japan.
Nana then moved into position to take the corner kick. When the referee gave the signal to proceed, Nana whipped a curled ball that flew towards an area where Mina was left on her own for a split second. The Japanese defender had a free header on goal.
Takumi Okada: Good ball in... Oh! A good save by Alyssa Naeher on Mina Nakae!
Mina's strong header was stopped at point blank by Alyssa Naeher, and the rebound was sent high and wide to goal by Saki. The USWNT escaped going behind on the scoreboard, but only just. Meanwhile, no one associated with Nadeshiko Japan could believe what they just saw.
Takumi Okada: The rebound goes wide. Oh, Nadeshiko Japan came really close, but couldn't score past Alyssa Naeher this time.
Makiko Yurikawa: It's a pure reflex save. Alyssa Naeher had no time to react at all, and yet manages to put her arms to stop the shot. Mina Nakae was that close from scoring her second goal of the night. The game is still tied at 2-2.
"Good try, Mina-san." Nana said to Mina, who replied with a thumbs-up sign.
"That was a good effort. We'll get them next time." Mai said.
Although they didn't capitalize on the last 2 chances, Nadeshiko Japan were not finished with the wave of attacks on the American goal. Only 3 minutes later, the daughters of the Land of the Rising Sun had another good opportunity to take the lead.
In the 53rd minute:
Takumi Okada: A pass towards Alex Morgan... It's intercepted by Nakae. Going forward for Mishima...
Again Nana had 2 American players trying to tightly mark her, but she didn't keep the ball for long. After a side pass to Hina, the latter kicked a long ball behind the American defenders. For a split second, everyone thought the ball would go for Mai. However, Mai used herself as a decoy to lure defenders out of position, and the real receiver was the running Chika Nakamura. The veteran Japanese winger was skipping past Crystal Dunn.
Takumi Okada: Sugita... It goes for Nakamura...
Chika then took the shot. The ball was deflected by Dunn's leg, but continued a looping trajectory towards goal. Naeher was left helpless until...
Takumi Okada: OH! IT HITS THE CROSSBAR! It still won't go in!
The ball bounced off the crossbar and into a position where Dahlkemper kicked the ball on the sidelines in panic.
"Keep your markings tight, for Christ!" Naeher angrily shouted at her defenders.
Makiko Yurikawa: It came off Dunn, Okada-san. That's why Naeher was helpless on the shot, but luck came on her side with the crossbar. It was a brilliant pass by Sugita for Nakamura to say the least.
On the Japanese bench, the substitutes could only watch in disbelief at another missed opportunity.
"How did that not go in?" Rumi asked. "I was sure that would be a goal."
"Luck has been on their side in the last few minutes, but we are doing well by sustaining that pressure upon them. We have to keep going, but be clever as well." Taeko replied.
Having missed all of their chances after Mina's equalizing goal thus far, there was also a risk that the USWNT can regain the momentum. As such, the action would easily shift back towards the other end of the pitch. Before long, the experienced American side regained their defensive composure, and waited for the opportunity to launch a swift counterattack.
In the 58th minute:
Takumi Okada: Sugita... passes in-field towards Mishima. It's intercepted by Julie Ertz for America.
Hina attempted a pass towards Nana. However, the pass got intercepted by Ertz, who then passed the ball towards Lavelle in the middle of the park. After making a run towards the halfway line on the counterattack, Lavelle kicked a long pass forward for Morgan.
Takumi Okada: Rose Lavelle... finds Alex Morgan. Nadeshiko Japan stretched...
With only Mina standing as a last defender, Morgan turned the Japanese defender inside out, and took advantage of Mina's stumble to carve an open path towards Ayaka's goal. Despite Saki's best efforts to get back into a good defensive position from behind Alex, the American striker took a direct shot on goal.
Takumi Okada: Morgan gets away from Nakae... Saved by Yamashita!
Ayaka moved forward, and succeeded in getting a hand on the shot. However, the rebound looped into the air and out of Ayaka's sight. Below the ball, Morgan waited to strike the volley. As Morgan took the volley shot attempt, the contact was not as clean as she would have wanted. As a result, it was a slow ball that was easily retrieved by Saki, who then passed the ball forward and safely to a teammate as the play continued.
Takumi Okada: Oh, it's miscued by Morgan. Saki Kumagai gets it off the line.
Watching the ball being taken away to safety, the American striker sighed in despair knowing that she wasted the best chance the USWNT had at the time in the second half. The sentiment was also shared by the several thousands of people inside the Orlando City Stadium.
'What was I thinking? I should have taken my time just now.' Morgan thought.
From that point onwards, the match went on back and forth. The USWNT replaced Sam Mewis and Kelley O'Hara by Lindsey Horan and Emily Sonnett at their respective positions in the 64th minute. In response, Nadeshiko Japan also made 2 changes in the 67th minute.
Stadium PA announcer: Substitutions for Japan… Exiting: number 11, Chika Nakamura, and number 8, Mana Iwabuchi. Entering: number 13, Saori Takarada, and number 17, Emi Nakajima.
On the Nadeshiko Japan bench, the replaced players were greeted by their teammates.
"Good game, Chika. Good game." Taeko said.
"Thanks, Tae-san." Chika replied.
"It's OK, Mana-san. You did your best." midfielder Yuka Momiki greeted Mana.
"I wished I could get something more dangerous on their goal." Mana replied.
"This game is far from over, Mana-chan. We can still win this." Mizuho said.
"I know. Some fresh legs will definitely help us." Taeko finished.
Despite the changes, neither team was able to break the deadlock. As minutes winded down, composure became more and more important as one mistake could swing odds of victory towards the other side. However, one incident would spark a clash of 2 hot tempers on opposite sides.
In the 74th minute:
Takumi Okada: It's a giveaway by Ertz. It's Sugita for Nadeshiko Japan... skips past Lavelle's tackle.
After retrieving a pass that went astray, Hina started the Japanese counterattack. A few yards ahead, Hina was slightly touched by Lavelle's tackle. Nevertheless, Hina got past the American midfielder, and then passed the ball forward to Nana in the following second.
Takumi Okada: Here's Mishima. She has options on the sides and ahead...
Nana then passed the ball to Saori, who then sent a ball behind the American defenders. The pass was intended for Mai, but the blonde Chelsea striker was forced to run after the ball as it was rolling quite fast.
Takumi Okada: The ball might be going too deep…
As Mai followed the ball towards the goal line, Naeher also followed the ball. The American goalkeeper decided to shield the ball with her own body. Mai tried to force her way past Naeher, but both players tangled into each other and fell onto the pitch.
Takumi Okada: It will be a goal kick… and something is going on down there.
After Mai and Naeher fell onto the ground, the American goalkeeper, who was on top of Mai, gave a nudge with the left knee on Mai's chest. Obviously displeased by the nudge, Mai responded by shoving Naeher back with both arms. After Mai got up on her feet, both she and Naeher shoved each other.
"What's your problem?" Alyssa asked.
"YOU are the problem." Mai replied.
In the following second, both Japanese and American players separated the belligerents. The referees also had to intervene before anything worse could happen.
"Calm down, Mai-chan!" Nana pleaded.
"Enough, Mai-chan!" Saki added while she, Nana, and Mina restrained Mai physically.
"I'm not done with that crazy woman! She will get some from me! I swear." Mai continued shouting angrily.
"OK, OK. Just chill for now." Mina said to Mai.
"We can't go down to 10 players now, Mai-chan. Calm down!" Saki added.
At the same time, Rapinoe and Morgan restrained Alyssa as well.
"That's enough! Back off!" Rapinoe said.
"That little... What the hell is wrong with her?" Naeher asked.
"Come on, Lyssa. Calm down." Morgan pleaded.
"Calm down! It's OK." Rapinoe added. "Don't let her get inside your head. That's what she wants, but you know better than that."
Meanwhile in West Didsbury:
"Come on, Mai-chan. You need to calm down. They would be happy to see us losing our focus if we get into their trap." Kakeru said.
After things settled down a little, the referee came in to give verbal warnings against both Mai and Naeher instead of giving yellow cards. However, the Nadeshiko Japan physiotherapist was attending to an injured Japanese player behind the play. Hina landed a little awkwardly after getting past Lavelle earlier, hurting her ankle in the process. Nadeshiko Japan was forced to make a second substitution with 16 minutes of normal time left.
"There's the signal from the physio. We have to replace Hina." assistant coach Naomi Minaba said.
"Otsuki-chan will fill the spot in midfield. I'm sending her in." Akane replied.
"Hai!" Naomi replied before she turned towards Sakura. "Hey, Otsuki-chan! You're going on."
"Hai!" Sakura replied.
Takumi Okada: Just as the temperature goes up by a few notches, Nadeshiko Japan are about to make a change. The veteran Sakura Otsuki will replace the injured Hina Sugita.
As if the rivalry between Japan and the United States needed to be burning even stronger, the tension was palpable. A few minutes later, a test of character was about to come up for both teams.
In the 81st minute:
Takumi Okada: It's a corner for America.
As both teams positioned themselves for the following corner kick, the Nadeshiko Japan players knew that they had to keep their eyes open with Megan Rapinoe on the pitch, especially in situations where she can launch a long ball towards a teammate's head. Moreover, Carli Lloyd, who replaced Alex Morgan a few minutes earlier, was being brought in with all of her vast wealth of experience to close the match.
PEEP!
Megan Rapinoe took the corner kick, but the ball was cleared by Mina. However, the ball was still in play as it went back towards Rapinoe. Waiting for a couple of seconds, she feinted going with the left foot only to shoot the aerial ball with the right foot. Having escaped her marker, Lloyd had the split second needed to strike a header shot that flew with high speed above Mai's head, but under the crossbar at the near post. In a blink of an eye, it was rapturous joy inside Orlando City Stadium as USA took the 3-2 advantage.
Takumi Okada: LLOYD! The Americans have regained the lead.
Makiko Yurikawa: Megan Rapinoe finds the head of a teammate on a long ball. How many times have we seen that over the years? The first kick was blocked by Nakae, but bounced back towards Rapinoe. Nakajima gets in there too late. Rapinoe sends the ball in to Carli Lloyd, who slipped past Otsuki for a split second. It was just enough to make a difference.
While most of Nadeshiko Japan players were in utter shock, Mai was the first to shake off the disappointment of letting that goal in. She picked up the ball from the back of the net, and then got on her way towards the center circle.
"This is not over! We go for the next goal!" Mai rallied her teammates.
"We can still get back in this. Come on!" Nana added.
Spurred by their 2 attacking leaders, the other Nadeshiko Japan players moved into their respective positions for the restart. At that moment, time was Japan's worst enemy.
Takumi Okada: So Nadeshiko Japan fell behind again with 9 minutes and stoppage time to go. Can they write one more chapter to this match?
In the center circle, Nana and Mai had a few words between them.
"As soon as you see an opportunity to make a through pass, do it. I'll settle the score with Naeher." Mai said.
"Just time your run right. I'll find the passing lane." Nana replied.
Then Mai passed the ball to Nana, who passed the ball for Sakura. The Japanese midfielder moved forward with the ball, but had to face pressure coming from Tobin Heath. Without hesitation, Sakura passed the ball towards Yui on the Japanese left flank where Emily Sonnett was standing.
Takumi Okada: Hasegawa... has to deal with Sonnett.
In a very smart move, Yui managed to nutmeg Sonnett, and then continued her run forward. In the process, she was forcing Lavelle and Horan to run back into a defensive position. The young Japanese left winger was well into the Americans' final third of the pitch.
"Yui!" Nana shouted.
Having spotted Nana in an open space, Yui passed the ball towards her. Playing the surprise card, Nana flicked the ball over the 2 American central defenders and into Mai's run. Mai also managed to beat the offside trap.
Takumi Okada: Mishima... It's Murasaki with space…
Finding herself in a 1v1 situation against the rushing goalkeeper, Mai decided to chip the ball above her opponent. Transported by momentum, Naeher collided straight into Mai. The referee was about to blow her whistle, but waited.
Takumi Okada: Brought down by Naeher!
As the ball was still loose, Saori made full advantage of her speed and her fresh legs to beat the nearby American defenders in the race for the ball. With a simple touch of the right foot, Saori tapped the ball into the deserted net.
Takumi Okada: TAKARADA FINISHES IT OFF! How about that? What a response by Nadeshiko Japan! As soon as they have a setback, then they strike back. The match is level again! 3-3!
In West Didsbury:
"GREAT RESPONSE, GIRLS!!!" Kakeru shouted.
Back to Orlando:
Makiko Yurikawa: It was a lovely ball by Nishima to put Murasaki in. Then Murasaki does ever so well to chip the ball over Naeher. Also, the referee redeemed herself for earlier by playing the advantage this time. All credit goes to Murasaki for pressing forward and to Yokoyama for the follow-up.
As the Nadeshiko Japan players ran to congratulate Saori, Mai got back on her feet before she taunted the American goalkeeper with a smirk on her face.
Takumi Okada: Forty seconds! That was the time between the last 2 goals. This crazy game can still have a lot more ahead. Saori Takarada, the player who scored 5 times in the 2018 U20 Women's World Cup to lead the Japanese U20s to the title, has given Nadeshiko Japan a lifeline here.
"Well done, Saori!" Nana congratulated her teammate.
"You did it, Saori-chan!" Mina added.
"Thanks, but a good thanks to Murasaki-san." Saori replied as she pointed at Mai to congratulate her. "That was one great chip."
"Thanks a lot for following me up, Saori." Mai replied.
"We've got them where we want them to be. Let's keep it tight, and hit them when we can." Saki said to her teammates.
"HAI!" the Nadeshiko Japan players replied.
With the game brought back to parity because Nadeshiko Japan took advantage of the moment of vulnerability that could easily follow a goal no matter how much experience a team has, the USWNT took a more conservative approach from that point. The USWNT coach knew that she needed only a draw to see her team win the tournament on goal difference. Hence, avoiding defeat became a top priority.
Between Saori's goal and the last moments of normal time, not much happened between the 2 sides. The USWNT replaced Tobin Heath with veteran forward Jessica McDonald in the 84th minute with the main purpose of keeping the score intact at the very least. In the 87th minute, Nadeshiko Japan proceeded with their final substitution. The fourth official showed numbers 9 in red and 20 in green on the electronic board that confirmed the substitution.
Takumi Okada: Coming off the bench is Taeko Isshiki. It looks like she is about to replace Mai Murasaki.
Makiko Yurikawa: Well, you can understand the substitution. Murasaki contributed with a goal and an assist, but she also spent a lot of energy against the American defenders. She also picked up a yellow card earlier.
Takumi Okada: So far, it has been a great effort by Nadeshiko Japan. But remember: America would still win the SheBelieves Cup on total goal differential as things stand.
"You did very well, Mai-chan." Taeko said.
"Thanks, Tae-san. Give them one hell of a time." Mai replied.
As Taeko walked onto the pitch, Carli Lloyd looked at the veteran Japanese striker. Lloyd has played against Taeko before, but there was something else in her mind.
'So this is the first time we play a match against both Isshiki and Mishima on the same pitch. Isshiki can still be lethal up front, but she needs Mishima to feed her as much as Mishima needs a striker like Isshiki as a target player. Japan would have been a more dangerous opponent in the 2012 and 2015 finals if the two of them managed to play together. We better be careful now.' Lloyd thought.
Seconds after Taeko arrived, Jun Endo replaced Yui Hasegawa on the left wing for Japan. The play then continued as we were entering the first of 4 minutes of injury time.
In the 91st minute:
Takumi Okada: Lavelle... can't get past Otsuki. Play goes on the wing for Rapinoe...
Rapinoe then came face to face with Risa. The Japanese right-back tried to stand her ground, but she was physically exhausted. With a skilled feint, Rapinoe fooled Risa before she pushed her a run towards the Japanese goal. Mina was forced to intervene with a tackle, but her attempt proved to be both late and lazy inside the penalty area, and it resulted in what Nadeshiko Japan didn't want to see at any cost.
Takumi Okada: Oh, Rapinoe goes down... and the referee gives a penalty for America!
Several thousands of American supporters cheered as victory was almost a formality with the penalty being the cherry on top of the icing on top of the cake. Totally distraught as she realized her own mistake, Mina didn't protest to the referee. She could only hold her hands in her face in despair before Taeko tried to comfort her old friend.
"I'm sorry, everyone. I'm very sorry." Mina apologized.
"Stay strong, Mina." Taeko replied.
"Keep the faith until the very end." Nana added, but knew deep inside that odds were not really good for Nadeshiko Japan at that time.
Makiko Yurikawa: Well, I thought that was a penalty as well. I think Mina Nakae knows it. There is not one complaint from a Nadeshiko Japan player. Megan Rapinoe drove her way past Shimizu, and was cutting across for goal when Nakae committed herself with the late tackle. There was no possible argument.
"Carli... Your shot. We trust you as always." Megan Rapinoe said.
Usually the penalty taker these days, Rapinoe gave the ball to the player who was full-time captain of the USWNT.
"Let's finish this off." Carli replied.
Takumi Okada: Carli Lloyd will take the penalty that would give the SheBelieves Cup in her hands. The heart and the soul of this American team for years...
Lloyd stalled the play for a few seconds knowing that it would be extremely difficult for Japan to attempt an attack if the following play resulted in a goal with little time left. As everyone but shooter and goalkeeper stood in position outside the penalty area, all eyes were on the duel between the American captain and the Japanese goalkeeper.
PEEP!
With a short run, Lloyd attempted to surprise Ayaka with a kick to the goalkeeper's right with a right-footed strike. However, Ayaka didn't commit herself too early, and then jumped to her right at the perfect split second. The final outcome was a very good save that conceded a corner kick for the USWNT while keeping the score at 3-3, much to the disbelief of the home supporters.
Takumi Okada: SAVED BY YAMASHITA! Nadeshiko Japan needed a save from their goalkeeper, and they have it! They are still alive!
The Nadeshiko Japan players rushed to congratulate their goalkeeper.
"YOSHAAA!!" Ayaka Yamashita shouted.
"Great save, Ayaka-san!" Nana said.
"Thanks a lot for saving it big time!" Mina added.
"We're still in this. Well done." Saki added.
On the following corner kick, Megan Rapinoe took a curling shot towards the mass of players. Before Ertz could reach the ball with her head, Ayaka caught the ball in the air.
Takumi Okada: It's caught by Yamashita. Nadeshiko Japan can get players forward now.
Taking a quick look forward, Ayaka spotted a few teammates rushing forward. Without any hesitation, the Japanese goalkeeper threw the ball forward.
Takumi Okada: It's Otsuki who gets the ball. She has plenty of speed here...
Sakura made a run for several yards with the ball until she passed it for Jun on the left wing. Although Jun tried a few feints as she went deep in the final third, the Americans had 2 defenders marking her. As a result, Jun was forced to stay peripheral to the American penalty area. Nevertheless, Jun earned a corner kick when her attempted cross bounced off an American defender and behind the goal line.
Takumi Okada: Endo gets the corner kick. This might be the last kick of the match as we are in the last minute of injury time.
"Ayaka! Move up! Get forward!" Akane ordered her goalkeeper to move forward.
"Going in, Coach Katsumoto!"
The Japanese goalkeeper moved up the field and inside the American penalty area. For Japan, it was all or nothing.
Takumi Okada: Yamashita is moving forward.
Before everyone could get into position for the corner kick, Nana asked for a quick talk Emi. Nana was supposed to be the corner kick taker for Nadeshiko Japan, but she had something else in mind.
"Hey, Emi-san. This corner kick is yours." Nana said.
"You're letting me take the corner kick?" Emi asked.
"Yep. Try finding Tae-san's head. I'll lurk outside the penalty area for loose balls. I trust you here."
"We'll do this." Emi finished.
Takumi Okada: This is really interesting. Instead of taking the corner kick, Nana Mishima goes to the front of the penalty area. Emi Nakajima is given the ball.
As Nana said, she moved towards the front of the penalty area, ready for any possibility. Finally, the referee gave the long awaited signal to carry on what would be the last action of the match. Tension was reaching its peak.
"Come on, come on, come on." Kakeru mumbled in front of his television.
PEEP!
Takumi Okada: Nakajima with the corner...
Emi whipped the ball towards the pack of players with some good height to deal with. Being the Japanese player coming nearest to the ball, Taeko tried to reach the ball with her head. However, Lloyd and Ertz also came in to meet her in the air.
"Not today." Lloyd said.
The ball was cleared the ball away from the penalty area by Ertz.
Takumi Okada: Cleared by Ertz...
However, the play was still on as the ball was bouncing just outside the penalty area. From that position, Nana followed her instinct by striking the one-timer shot with all the ferocity she could muster. What followed was like an arrow that burst the top corner of the goal and out of Naeher's reach.
Makiko Yurikawa: YATTAAAAA!!!
Takumi Okada: MISHIMAAA!!! MISHIMAAAAAAAAAAAAAA!!!!! 4-3!!! NADESHIKO JAPAN HAVE WON IT! WITH NO TIME LEFT IN INJURY TIME, NANA MISHIMA SCORES THE WINNING GOAL FOR NADESHIKO JAPAN! VICTORY HAS BEEN SNATCHED FROM THE JAWS OF DEFEAT!
"YATTAAAA!!! YEEEESSS!! We have won it!" Kakeru jumped off his seat, shouting as loudly as possible at his place.
In one go, the whole Japanese bench erupted in total euphoria. All Japanese substitutes ran their way towards the celebrating Japanese players on the pitch to congratulate the instant heroine. Meanwhile, Nana flashed the JFA badge and kissed it a few times as her personal response to the home supporters who booed and heckled her all night.
Makiko Yurikawa: In big games, you expect top players to deliver. My goodness, Nana Mishima did just that big time! She gave the corner kick duty to Nakajima this time. The ball was cleared by Ertz, but Mishima knew what she was doing by lurking in front of the penalty area to take the shot. No human goalkeeper, male or female, was going to stop that rocket going for the top corner. And Nana Mishima has won the SheBelieves Cup with a goal worth plenty of gold in itself.
Takumi Okada: She scored key goals to win matches for Manchester United this season. Now she has scored a very big goal to win an international cup final for Nadeshiko Japan against their great rivals. Nana Mishima is the latest of the line among high-profile Nadeshiko Japan heroines.
On the other end of the spectrum of emotions, a tiny minority in the crowd cursed back at Nana. But the vast majority in the crowd as well as the American players could only stand watching in utter disbelief. Nana's goal was indeed scored as the final minute of injury time had just expired.
Takumi Okada: The restart will follow, but it will most likely be academic now.
As it was predicted, the referee blew the final whistle immediately after the American players kicked the ball off.
PEEP PEEP PEEEEEEEP!
Takumi Okada: History is made. After falling short in the 2012 and 2014 Algarve Cup finals against Germany, and after the heartbreak in the 2015 FIFA World Cup final, the SheBelieves Cup is the first title won by Nadeshiko Japan outside of the Asian Football Confederation since the 2011 FIFA Women's World Cup. And this young group of players will always remember it.
"We did it, Nana-chan!" Taeko hugged Nana.
"Yeah, we won it!" Nana replied.
"It's unbelievable! I'm so happy!" Mai exclaimed as she also hugged Nana.
After the initial post-match celebrations, players from both teams shook hands under the respectful applause acknowledging the quality of the 2 sides. Mai and Naeher shook hands very briefly. The sincerest handshake was the one between Nana Mishima and Alex Morgan.
"Congratulations, Nana. Japan deserves this trophy tonight." Morgan said.
"I could have said the same thing about USA. We fell behind twice, and could have lost the game so many times." Nana replied.
"Your team never gave up. It's all credit to you for putting up the fight, for creating your luck, and for having the last word. On that last goal, no goalkeeper would have stopped that."
"Thanks, Alex. Best of luck in the next NWSL season with Orlando."
"Thank you, Nana. I hope you will win a lot of things with Manchester United come the month of May."
After the handshakes, the stage was set to give the Nadeshiko Japan players to receive their medals from officials and dignitaries. After the last medal was given to the Nadeshiko Japan captain, she received the SheBelieves Cup trophy before she hoisted it high amidst the fireworks and the cheers from the remaining spectators who supported Nadeshiko Japan on the night. After a team photo with the trophy well in sight and after a lap of honor in front of the remaining spectators, the players went into the tunnel leading to the dressing room.
In the dressing room, the party had already started with players shouting whoops and hurrahs. Nana received quite a welcome from her teammates and from the Nadeshiko Japan staff when she came in.
"WOO HOO HOO!! I'M SO HAPPY!" Nana shouted.
"CHAMPIONS! We did it, Witch!" Mai said.
"Incredible tournament. You two did us very proud out there!" Taeko gave a friendly headlock to both Nana and Mai.
"Hope our next tournament will be even better!" Nana said.
Then the Nadeshiko Japan head coach entered the dressing room with the trophy, prompting everyone to go quiet before she made her speech.
"You did yourselves proud. The fans who supported us here, everyone who supports us at home... you made them proud today. This is a great moment, but this is only the beginning. It's one step closer to your dream of winning the big prizes for Japan again. When we get there, we will fight for it." Akane said. "But for tonight, enjoy this moment because this cup... BELONGS TO US!"
"YEEEEEAAAH!!!" the whole dressing room cheered.
"CAMPEÓNES! CAMPEÓNES! OLÉ, OLÉ, OLÉ!" the Nadeshiko Japan players sang the universal soccer song for champions while enjoying a lot of soft drinks.
A little later, Nana was handed the SheBelieves Cup trophy.
"Can you take a few pictures on my phone? I promised someone that we'd go for the win, and I'm gonna show him that we did." Nana asked Mai.
"Sure. It's for Kakerucchi, right?" Mai replied before she took Nana's smartphone.
"Yeah. He's been wanting me to win this trophy, so I'll send him as many pictures as possible." Nana said.
"He will definitely enjoy those. OK, smile now." Mai said.
Nana posed for Mai, who then took a few pictures to immortalize the moment when Nana held the SheBelieves Cup as a champion for Nadeshiko Japan. After Mai finished taking photos, Taeko took control of the music player of which she tuned in Gala's "Freed from Desire".
"Oh, yeah! Nice pick, Tae-san!" Mina said.
"Make sure you record this one too, Mai-chan." Taeko said.
"OK, OK." Mai replied.
"Nana-chan, that's your song!" Saki said.
Mai continued recording the dressing room atmosphere as the song was being played loudly through the speakers. Nana was red-faced at first, but then she quickly let herself into the dance with the trophy in her hands. Finally, the Nadeshiko Japan players started adding their voices to sing the adapted lyrics that pay tribute to Nana.
NANA'S ON FIREYOUR DEFENSE IS TERRIFIEDNANA'S ON FIREYOUR DEFENSE IS TERRIFIEDNANA'S ON FIREYOUR DEFENSE IS TERRIFIEDNANA'S ON FIRE
NA NA NA NA NA NA NA, NA NA NA NA NA NANA NA NA NA NA NA NA, NA NA NA NA NANA NA NA NA NA NA NA, NA NA NA NA NA NANA NA NA NA NA NA NA, NA NA NA NA NA.
Nana and the rest of the Nadeshiko Japan players danced on the song until it reached its very end with Mai recording the whole thing on Nana's smartphone.
"This one will be viral on social media if you post it." Mai said.
"You bet I will post it." Nana replied.
Nana took back her smartphone before she sent the pictures to Kakeru. Then she posted pictures and the video on social media. It a matter of seconds, Kakeru saw everything he wanted to see even if it was well over 3:00 AM in the United Kingdom.
"Nice partying in there, Seven! Yusuke and Noriko will definitely love what I'm seeing here." Kakeru finished with a smile.
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