Bassett's own goal in stoppage time lifts Japan to 2-1 win over England in World Cup semifinal

EDMONTON, Alberta — England defender Laura Bassett was inconsolable as she lay face down on the field, sobbing.

Japanese players gathered at the other end of the field in celebration — and relief — in realizing how close they came to squandering a chance to defend their Women's World Cup title.

After Japan was outplayed for much of the second half, a turn of Bassett's foot followed by a fortunate bounce off the crossbar led to an own goal in the final minute of stoppage time that allowed Japan pull out a 2-1 victory in the semifinal Wednesday. Japan will travel to Vancouver to face the United States on Sunday in a rematch of the 2011 championship game in Germany.

http://www.startribune.com/own-goal-gives-japan-2-1-win-over-england-in-world-cup-semi/311337061/