USA vs. Japan Women's Olympic Soccer: Japan's Keys to Success vs. Americans

Could it get any better than this?

The U.S. women's soccer team will face none other than Japan in the final of the 2012 London Olympics on Thursday.

As you may recall, Japan is the team that defeated the United States in the final of the 2011 World Cup.

To say this game is going to be a battle would be an understatement.

The U.S. women are once again favorites to beat Japan this time around after a thrilling 4-3 victory over Canada in extra time on Tuesday.

Here's what Japan must do to upset the Americans again.

Contain Alex Morgan

You'll remember Alex Morgan scored in the final of the 2011 World Cup against Japan.

Well, Morgan has gotten even better since then and she's doing what she always does: stepping up when it matters most.

Morgan's header in extra time against Canada on Tuesday was the game-winner and she's ready to do it again against Japan.

The 23-year-old got off four shots against Japan in the World Cup final, including two on goal. She's one of the best players in the world and she's always dangerous.

Japan's defense has been solid in the 2012 London Olympics. The side has given up just two goals in five matches, which is one of the reasons the Japanese have been able to reach the final having scored just six goals in that span.

But anyone who saw Japan against France in the semifinals knows that the side's defense broke down toward the end of the game. Star goalkeeper Miho Fukumoto had to make 10 saves to keep the French at bay.

Japan can't rely on Fukumoto against the United States. The defense needs to collapse on Morgan.

Keep Control of the Ball 

Japan was able to stay on par with the United States in the World Cup until the penalty shootout because the side controlled the ball for 53 percent of the match.

That is vital against the U.S. this time around as the Americans are still more talented overall. Keeping the ball away from players such as Morgan, Abby Wambach and Megan Rapinoe is essential in limiting the United States.

Keep Shooting

Japan obviously doesn't have an electric offense, but the Japanese have still gotten off 55 shots in five matches, a respectable number.

The problem is, Japan hasn't converted its opportunities.

Against a defense that sports goalkeeper Hope Solo, Japan needs to take advantage of every little opportunity at net because Solo is sure to notch her fair share of spectacular saves. She has nine saves in her last two matches.

Follow me on Twitter. We can talk about the Olympics together.