USA vs. Japan: Women's World Cup Gamethread

When: 11:45 am PDT
TV: ESPN
Stream: ESPN3

First, don't forget to read this great preview by tjalorak.  For the neutral fan, this should be a spectacular final.  Like France, Japan play a fluid, possession oriented brand of attacking football.  Unlike France, they are stronger in defense are are less wasteful in front of goal.  And as magical as this run has seemed for the United States, the Japanese have a pretty special story of their own:

"They're the sentimental favorites in this tournament," Solo conceded. "They're playing for something bigger and better than the game. When you're playing with so much heart, that's hard to play against."

Per the usual, Alex Morgan will almost certainly be starting on the bench.  After looking dangerous during her limited minutes, then finally scoring against France, the chorus calling for Morgan to start has grown even louder.  Still, there is something to be said for defined roles and fresh legs against a tiring defense.  In any case, it's very likely that this game will not be decided until late in the contest, which means Morgan will have the chance to permanently etch her name in US sports history today.  Go Bears! Go USA!