Olympic Soccer Schedule 2012: Team USA Will Overpower Japan to Win Gold
It won't be easy, but Team USA has too many weapons for the modestly-powered Japanese team, and the Americans will win the gold medal.
After a struggle against Canada, the Americans proved they could win the close ones, behind Alex Morgan. They knocked off their neighbors to the north 4-3. They probably won't be in for another shootout with Japan in the gold medal match.
The Japanese haven't scored or allowed more than two goals in this Olympic competition. They are undefeated in London, but they have played to two scoreless draws. Their biggest task will be slowing down the attack of the high-scoring Americans.
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The United States has scored more goals than any other country in the Olympics, and they have three of the tournament's top 10 scorers on their side.
The American's leading scorer is Abby Wambach, and her five goals are almost equal to the six the Japanese have scored as a team in the Olympics. With Wambach, Morgan and Meagan Rapinoe applying pressure, the Japanese can't cover everyone.
What I expect to see is Japan slowing the American charge out the outset, but ultimately not being able to contain them for a full match. Japan's defense has been stout in the Olympics, but to beat the United States, they will have to find a way to score more than two goals.
I just don't see that happening, and the Americans have too many playmakers on their side. I predict a 2-0 victory for the Untied States, and a gold medal.
The bronze medal game will also take place on Wednesday. Canada and France will battle for the consolation prize.
Here is the match schedule:
Bronze Medal Match - 8:00 am ET
Canada vs. France
Gold Medal Match - 2:45 pm ET
USA vs. Japan
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