USA Women's Olympic Soccer Team: Keys to US Avenging World Cup Loss to Japan

The USA has a few things they need to focus on if they want the outcome of their 2012 Olympics gold medal match against Japan to end differently than the harsh defeat they suffered to the same opponent in last year's World Cup. 

Both of these teams have looked fantastic arriving to this point. The U.S. is 5-0-0 and looking better than ever. Japan finished group play 1-0-2, but has definitely turned it up a notch in elimination play. 

This match is destined to be another classic. Here is what Team USA needs to do to ensure it has a different outcome. 

Control Their Emotion 

The Americans have been waiting for this moment ever since they lost on that fateful penalty shootout in the World Cup. 

The following quote, provided by the Associated Press' Joseph White, is from midfielder Carli Lloyd, but it could be from any member of the team. Plenty of them have said something similar to this: 

"

This is redemption for us. We know how hard it was for us after that game. It hurt us for a really long time.

"

They have not tried to pretend the loss didn't hurt, and they certainly haven't hid the fact that they are eager for some revenge. 

Now, combine all of that with the emotion of playing for a gold medal, and that is a lot to deal with. If not carefully measured, this could lead to foolish errors. 

Push the Pace

These two teams have achieved their greatness with distinctly different styles. The U.S. likes to get off as many shots on goal as possible, while Japan is much more methodical. This is a very disciplined and smart team. 

This contest is likely going to come down to which team does a better job of forcing their style of play. 

The U.S. will be able to achieve this by coming out aggressive, and making smart, forward moves. It will also help if they can open up an early lead, which would force Japan out of their comfort zone. 

Get the Ball to Wambach and Morgan

The Americans have a talented pair of forwards in Abby Wambach and Alex Morgan. Give these ladies enough chances and they are going to score. 

When these two met in the World Cup, Morgan was just emerging as a consistent threat for the U.S.. She has certainly arrived now, and Abby Wambach has not had any drop off in performance. 

These two make the U.S. deadly every minute on the pitch. Now the team just needs to focus on getting them chances.