The Japanese women soccer team defeated the U.S. this morning 2-2 (3-1 in penalties), becoming the first Asian nation to win the Women’s World Cup. Broadcast live around 3 a.m. in Japan, I wasn’t awake to watch the game, but I checked the Internet for the score when I awoke. My tiny town hasn’t done anything special to celebrate the victory yet, but those in Tokyo have been moved. Almost five months after the Great East Japan Earthquake, this victory means very much to the country.
From a Washington Post article:
TOKYO — For Japan, this was a break from its own victimhood. Because of its women’s soccer team, thousands packed bars here during vampire hours. They chanted their country’s name. They chewed on towels and covered their eyes. Finally, they went wild with joy.
Watch clips from the game below, and once again, congratulations Japan!
