USA Defeats Norway, Prepare for Japan Rematch

Abby Wambach and Sydney Leroux both scored in the second half as the U.S. defeated Norway today by a score of 2-1 in group play at the Algarve Cup. The U.S. Women now get ready to take on Japan on Monday with first place in Group A on the line. Japan defeated Denmark 2-0 today as they also improved to 2-0 in the tournament. The U.S. women have the edge in goal differential thanks to their 5-0 win over Denmark on Wednesday so a draw will be enough to push them through to the finals. But you can bet they'll be out to exact some revenge for their crushing shootout loss to the Japanese in last summer's World Cup Final.

Norway's lone goal came late in stoppage time when Elise Thorsnes scored in the final seconds of the game. It's the first goal that Hope Solo has allowed in 2012. The American women have now won 8 in a row to start the year.