Japan won the sixth Women's World Cup, defeating the United States 3-1 on penalty kicks after a 2-2 tie in extra time, ending a dramatic, emotionally filled game, played July 17 at Commerzbank Arena in Germany.
The United States failed in its attempt to become the first three-time world champion, while Japan became Asia's first Women's World Cup winner.
"It will be a final to remember," U.S. coach Pia Sundhage told the media after the game. "At the highest level, you have to take your chances, and we weren't sharp enough."
The United States was dominant in the first half, but unable to find the back of the net.
Alex Morgan gave the United States the lead in the 69th minute, after a long pass from Megan Rapinoe, but Japan answered in the 81st minute.
In extra time, victory was again within reach when the United States grabbed a 2-1 advantage in the 104th minute off a header by Abby Wambach. But Japan's most iconic player, Homare Sawa, playing in her fifth and last World Cup, somehow contrived to tie it three minutes before the end of extra time, directing the ball past goalie Hope Solo from an acute angle. It was Sawa's fifth goal of the tournament, making her the golden boot winner as scoring champion.
Many from Chicago's LGBT community watched and cheered throughout the game. D.S. Tequila in Lakeview was one of the most popular viewing spots.
"Everyone is a winner in my book," said Samantha Hamilton. "I never saw so much excitement in the air today."
Jennifer Reid, a teacher, who watched the game at Crew, said the outcome was heartbreaking. "[There were] lots of unfinished chances for the U.S., but [it was] a Cinderella story for Japan."
Kelly Beeman, a comedian, watched the game near Wrigley Field. She said penalty kicks can go down to luck, "but missing three in a row was so disappointing." Still, Beeman said she is proud of how far the United States went in the tournament.
"I think they did a lot for women's soccer," she said.
Eve Compisi watched the final at Crew and simply said, "Japan capitalized on our mistakes. I wish I could say differently, but they deserved the win. We will be back though, don't you worry."
Michelle Rabinovich added: "Was disappointing to see how many shots the U.S. had on goal, and to drop it at the end is tough. My anxiety was so high, but the depth of the team will hopefully bring back a championship next time. Hopefully it lit [a] fire under [the team]."