Japanese fans dejected after 2-1 loss to US women in Olympic soccer final
News On Japan via Washington Post -- Aug 10
Just over a year ago, Japan enjoyed a stunning victory over the U.S. in the women's World Cup. But on Friday, it was the Americans who celebrated a 2-1 triumph in the final in London.
Bars and restaurants that showed the game in central Tokyo were packed for the kickoff at 3:45 a.m. local time Friday with fans decked out in the national team's uniforms.
Carli Lloyd scored early in both halves and goalkeeper Hope Solo made a key stop late in the game for the Americans.
"It was a good game but I'm very disappointed. We had our chances but couldn't take advantage," said Yasuhiro Koyama, a 29-year-old office worker who stayed up all night.
Chants of "Nippon! Nippon!" grew louder after Yuki Ogimi cut the deficit to one goal in the 63rd minute, but fans quickly headed out onto the streets at the final whistle where they were greeted by sunlight and early commuters.
Source: Washington Post
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