USA vs. Japan: Best Photos from Women's Olympic Soccer Gold Medal Match

The US women's soccer team went out to redeem themselves against Japan in the 2012 Olympics gold medal match.

It was a rematch of last summer's Women's World Cup final, when Japan ultimately prevailed in a penalty shootout.

Again at London 2012, the margin between the two teams was slim in an exciting, fast-paced game. Here are 11 of the best images from a memorable Olympic night at Wembley.

"Mine!"

With Abby Wambach shaping up to slam Alex Morgan's picture-perfect cross into the net, up pops Carli Lloyd to nick the ball practically off Wambach's foot and score the opening goal with a flying header.

USA 1, Japan 0

USA celebrate taking the lead in the 8th minute.

This Beats Dancing with the Stars

Hope Solo enjoys the calm before Japan starts storming her goal toward the end of the first half.

Nadeshiko Chic

No one does cuddly-toy-loving fan support like the Japanese.

Frustration for Japan

Forward Yuki Ogimi can't believe Japan still haven't managed to find the goal after an extended spell of pressure sees them hit the crossbar, draw a spectacular save from Hope Solo and have a penalty for handball denied.

Carli Lloyd

Lloyd shapes to shoot from 25 yards, and it's...

USA 2, Japan 0

It was Carli Lloyd, in cracking form, who scored again. But Wambach will take it.

Homare Sawa

Japan's No. 10 controls the ball in the build-up to their first goal. USA 2, Japan 1.

Box of Confusion

Chaos in the US box as the Americans continue to live dangerously with a one-goal lead.

Hope Saves the Day

Keeper Hope Solo made several crucial saves to ensure USA kept the lead, but none more vital than this one in the 83rd minute.

Final: USA 2, Japan1

The two heroes of the day, Hope Solo and Carli Lloyd, celebrate winning Olympic gold.

USWNT Takes the Gold

For the fourth time in five Olympics, the US women's soccer team wins gold.