The Nadeshiko have gotten into the final almost under the radar quietly crafting an exposition of efficient technical soccer. They have been no scoring outbursts in their unbeaten run in this World Cup. They tend to score early and rely on Barcelona like sterile domination with their passing efficiency. Aya Miyama, now in her third World Cup continues to be their most gifted ball carrier and set piece specialist. This Japanese side knows big moments, an average of 28 years of age with midfielder Homare Sawa the oldest at 36 years. Their strikers are relatively younger with Yuika Sugasawa and the lively Mana Iwabuchi in their early 20s.

The USA is equally experienced with an average of 29 years and they know this Japanese side well. After all, they have met in two previous finals, being beaten on penalties in the 2011 World Cup and a year later winning the 2012 Olympic gold through Carli Lloyd’s brace. One of the key match ups will be how well Ali Krieger stacks up against Miyama’s attacking instincts channeling the left side. Julie Johnston also might get pulled out showing her vulnerability against Germany to speed which the Japanese could exploit.

Japan also tend to circulate the ball and the US might get sucked in trying to chase them up the pitch or get caught ball watching leaving them out of position to a counter. England’s match provides pointers on disrupting their passing rhythm with physicality increasing the number of tackles. One would expect the same from Carli Lloyd, Lauren Holiday, and Morgan Brian sitting deepest in the midfield.

There is a temptation to start Abby Wambach against the shorter Japanese defense because of her aerial strength but Alex Morgan shows she’s well on her way to full recovery, troubling defences with her trademark bursts of speed. Morgan and Rapinoe can take the direct route which has brought them notable success with their penalty inducing runs into the box. A versatile Carli Lloyd in the free role has already scored through those penalties, scored a match winning header, and created Kelley O’ Hara’s late goal against Germany.

The USA are once again overwhelming favourites like they were in the last World Cup till the Japanese shocked them. Their biggest mistake will be to write off the Nadeshiko just because they have not yet encountered any of the traditional big teams in this World Cup. It is also hard not to like this Japanese side as they showed a profound understanding of the beautiful game as it should be played.

Prediction: USA 2 Japan 1