Steely flowers soothe Japan

Named after a frilly pink flower, Japan's World Cup-winning women's soccer team embodied the iron will of a nation united in its battle to recover from disaster.

When Saki Kumagai smashed the ball high into the net to complete a nail-biting penalty shootout victory over the US in Frankfurt on Sunday night, bars and clubs across Tokyo exploded with cheers as fans celebrated a first world title for an Asian side.

Japan's Nadeshiko - named after a frilly pink carnation - twice came from behind against the more powerful Americans to take the final to penalties.

"My girls played their hearts out," said coach Norio Sasaki, fighting back tears. "We could really feel the power from everyone in Japan watching on TV. I'm stunned."

Japan's astonishing run in Germany has given the country a lift after the devastating earthquake and tsunami that struck the north-east on March 11.

Amid fears of radiation after the giant tsunami triggered a nuclear meltdown at a power plant 150km north of Tokyo, and with thousands still living in shelters, Japan's victory was as emotional as it was unexpected.

"I felt the whole of Japan smile," the tearful mother of Japan captain Homare Sawa told Fuji Television.

Sawa's audacious flick forced extra time, and brought her the Golden Boot for her fifth goal of the tournament. Then it was left to the pint-sized Kumagai to finish the job.

"I'm amazed," said Kumagai after her winning kick in the shootout. "I just smacked it as hard as I could."

Japan's petite musketeers, at an average height of 1.62m, 7cm shorter than the muscular Americans, unfurled a banner after being showered in confetti. It read: "To our friends around the world - thank you for your support."

American goalkeeper Hope Solo said of Japan's victory: "I truly believe that something bigger was pulling for this team."

Sasaki had used images of the disaster to help motivate Japan's players before shock victories over champions and hosts Germany and Sweden in the previous two games.

Karina Maruyama, who once worked for Tokyo Electric Power, operator of the crippled nuclear plant, had come off the bench to score the extra-time winner against Germany in the quarterfinals, underlining Japan's steely determination.