Japan coach Norio Sasaki said he was proud of his side's performances at the Women's World Cup but admitted the Nadeshiko were no match for the United States after a 5-2 thrashing in the final on Sunday wrecked their hopes of retaining the title they won four years ago in Germany.

Japan's six-match winning streak at the tournament ended in brutal fashion as the Asian champions conceded four goals in the first 16 minutes, including a hat-trick by U.S. captain and Golden Ball winner Carli Lloyd.

"My players have given their all in every match, and overall they've had a great tournament here in Canada. Today, though, the Americans were simply too strong," Sasaki said.