Japanese players held up a banner after each game thanking people from around the world for their support in the aftermath of the earthquake and tsunami that devastated Japan in March. (Petr David Josek/Associated Press)
Tactically sound. Technically brilliant. Dogged and determined.
All of these aptly describe the Japanese team following its stunning and dramatic penalty shootout victory over the United States in Sunday's Women's World Cup final from Frankfurt, Germany.
Here's one more adjective: classy.
Japan won plaudits for its superb displays in Germany. From their efficient counter-attack, sublime passing skills, expert possession and fearlessness, the Japanese were the class of the tournament when it came to the action on the field.
That Homare Sawa, the Japanese veteran who was competing in her fifth - and possibly final - World Cup won the Golden Ball (tournament MVP) and Golden Show (top scorer) was more than fitting.
Sawa exuded the very best qualities of the Japanese team, showing perseverance and great resolve during the competition. Aside from netting a hat-trick in a group-stage game against Mexico, she also set up the winner in Japan's extra-time victory over Germany in the quarter-finals.
After finding the back of the net against Sweden in the semifinals, Sawa saved her best performance for last.
It was her goal in the 117th minute that rescued Japan in the final against the Americans. And while some players have a tendency not to volunteer for duty in a penalty shootout, Sawa quickly raised her hand.
That's quality leadership, folks.
Lest you think Sawa carried Japan on her broad shoulders, think again. This was a team effort, with key contributions from many.
Goalkeeper Ayumi Kaihori made some outstanding saves throughout the tournament, none any more important than when she thwarted Shannon Boxx in the Americans' first attempt in the penalty shootout.
Midfielder Nahomi Kawasumi was limited to two appearances as a substitute (totalling 29 minutes) before she scored a pair of goals (including the winner) in Japan's 3-1 victory over Sweden in the semifinals.
But what was most impressive about the Japanese was how they carried themselves with great dignity and class every step of the way at this tournament, playing for the folks back home who are still dealing with aftermath of the earthquake and tsunami that devastated the country in March.
After every match the players went to the middle of the pitch and displayed a banner reading "To Our Friends Around the World -- Thank You for Your Support."
Their heroism did not go unnoticed. On the surface soccer may just be game, but try telling that to the millions of Japanese who woke up at 3:45 a.m. just to watch their heroes take on the U.S. in Frankfurt.
Sawa and her teammates drew inspiration from the tenacity of regular Japanese citizens who are still trying to rebuild, while the Japanese team's journey to the final galvanized a nation and provided its people with some emotional relief.
It really is "the beautiful game."
Follow John F. Molinaro on Twitter at: http://twitter.com/#!/JohnMolinaro
