U.S. women’s soccer team beats Japan, 1-0

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The defending gold medalist U.S. women’s soccer team put its Olympic campaign back on track Saturday by defeating Japan, 1-0, in Qinhuangdao, China.

The game’s lone goal came as the result of a superb run down the left wing by defender Stephanie Cox in the first half, followed by an equally good cutback pass.

Midfielder Carli Lloyd received the pass and struck a ferocious shot that was still rising when it slammed into the back of the Japanese net. Goalkeeper Miho Fukumoto had no chance at making a save.

The victory evened the Americans’ record at 1-1 after a 2-0 opening-game loss to Norway. A victory over New Zealand on Tuesday would secure a place in the quarterfinals for the U.S. squad.

Coach Pia Sundhage made two changes in her starting lineup, bringing USC striker Amy Rodriguez on in place of Natasha Kai and replacing injured defender Lori Chalupny with Cox.

The Americans played far better than they had against the Norwegians, and while they failed to score more than one goal, their commitment and composure all over the field was evident.

Goalkeeper Hope Solo made a couple of key saves early on to settle any nerves, and with Christie Rampone inspiring the defense, Shannon Boxx controlling the midfield and Rodriguez ever-dangerous up front, the U.S. was in charge throughout.

Japan was not overwhelmed, however, and created numerous good scoring chances thanks to some excellent dribbling and approach work. The Japanese were let down by their finishing, however, and failed to capitalize on the opportunities they created.

Japan, which had come from two goals down to tie New Zealand, 2-2, in its opener, now has to defeat Norway on Tuesday if it wants to avoid being eliminated.

With the victory, the U.S. improved to 18-0-3 all-time against Japan.

-- Grahame L. Jones