U.S. edges past Japan to win American football World Cup

University of Nebraska-Omaha running back Kyle Kasperbauer was named MVP of the game after scoring two touchdowns and running for 54 yards on 15 carries.

Japan kicker Yosuke Kaneoya missed a chance to win the match with a 4-yard field goal in overtime and Coffin sealed victory on the ensuing possession with his second successful field goal in extra time.

With 2:51 remaining in the fourth quarter, Kasperbauer ran the ball in the from the 10-yard line as the U.S. tied the game 17-17.

Kasperbauer scored the first touchdown of the game three minutes into the first quarter, carrying the ball in from the 9-yard line.

The United States, coached by John Mackovic, was taking part in the tournament for the first time with a team comprised of players from Division I, II and III colleges.

The Americans finished first in Group B after defeating South Korea 77-0 and Germany 33-3.

The tournament is being played for the third time. Japan won in 1999 and 2003.

Japan looked set for its third straight title when quarterback Yuichi Tomizawa passed to Takuro Mayuzumi, who ran in for a ouchdown with seven minutes left in regulation.

But Japan couldn’t hold the lead and had to settle for second place. Germany defeated Sweden 7-0 on Saturday to win the bronze medal.

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