Just a few seconds ago, as I am typing this, Japan won the FIFA Women's World Cup after having to come from behind in normal time, and again in extra time, and then finally winning it on a penalty shoot-out.
They beat the USA who looked physically more dominant, and more threatening to win throughout, but somehow the heart and skill and composure of the Japanese women got them to the shoot-out. And then, a more relaxed team facing the "lottery" of the penalty shoot-out, I have not seen.
Japan's victory represents a step forward for the women's game globally: a new name on the trophy, proving that the number of competitive teams is growing; and they are the first team from Asia to lift the trophy.
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It is interesting to note that, in the group stage, England beat Japan. They are the only team this tournament who did that.
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From what I have seen, this tournament was football at its finest, and although the speed and sheer size of the players is not quite that of the highest levels of the men's game, the skill and passion and entertainment are easily its equal. Women's football should be a priority in future for broadcasters. It is shameful that so little of this competition was available to view on the BBC.
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