Japan and USA set for bronze playoff

Japan and the United States are set to battle it out for bronze in the FIFA U20 Women’s World Cup 2016, underway in Port Moresby.

The match will kick off at 4pm today in front of an expected sellout crowd at the 15,000 seating National Football Stadium.

Japan and USA will come out strong, aiming to take home the bronze medal after missing out on qualifying for the final on Tuesday in the semis against France and Korea DPR respectively.

It will be a tough encounter between the Asian and North American sides after a hard-fought battle and going to extra time in the semis.

But it will be an exciting and entertaining match and fans will be out in numbers to support.

Japan has its top goal scorers Yuka Momiki and Mami Ueno, who are in firm contention for the Adidas Golden Ball, to help them to victory.

The USA side, led by Mallory Pugh, have proved experts at scoring late and critical goals in the likes of forward Ally Watt and midfielder Kelcie Hedge.

USA coach Michelle French said they were happy to have another opportunity for the medal playoffs.

Japan coach Asako Takakura revealed that USA is a good team and they’re looking forward to the match.

France will take on Korea DPR in the final at 7:30pm for a chance to lift the trophy for the first time in the tournament. 

Author: 
Quintina Naime