Germany confident ahead of WCup quarters

Japan's number four ranking flatters them somewhat. I can't see how they could beat Germany, but at least they will have a chance to shine on the biggest possible stage... the Wolfsberg arena holds 38.000 and I expect it will be sold out. For female players some of whom, like Sakaguchi Mizuho, are used to playing on a mud field in front of 300 people in Niigata, that will be quite an experience. Come on you Nadeshiko...

Come on the Matildas! I think we are a good chance of beating the Swedes.....let's make the Final! Aussie Aussie Aussie!

Japan always looses against Germany...

Good grief. I'm in shock.. what a war of attrition that was... Japan overcame the Germans 1-0 in 120 gruelling minutes. The Nadeshiko defended for dear life, picking up I don't know how many yellow cards as they repeatedly fended off the muscular Germans. Then a moment of counterattacking brilliance by Maruyama in the 108th minute from a lovely cross from Sawa. But there were still 12 desperate minutes to play.. frantic defending saw out the match. Whew...