Aug 11 (NHK) - In the Women's soccer World Cup, it was disappointment for Japan as its hard-driving squad lost to Sweden 2-1 in the quarterfinal.
Japan's players started off looking different from previous games, and couldn't seem to find their rhythm.
Sweden made a breakthrough in the 32nd minute from a free kick. Amanda Ilestedt took it home.
That was the first time Japan allowed an opening goal in the tournament.
Five minutes into the second half, Sweden was awarded a penalty for a handball.
Filippa Angeldal doubled her team's tally.
That had Nadeshiko Japan gearing up for their attacks, though they had trouble penetrating Sweden's defense.
A penalty gave Japan a golden opportunity in the 74th minute but an effort by substitute Ueki Riko fell short.
In the 87th minute, a strike by another substitute, Hayashi Honoka, finally found the back of the net. ...continue reading