InsideJapan News Network

Japan's victory in the FIFA Women's World Cup final will help the country in its efforts to recover from the earthquake and tsunami that left the north-east devastated earlier this year.

That is according to defence minister Toshimi Kitazawa, who expressed his delight at the win as the women's team returned to thousands of cheering fans in Tokyo.

He said: "I am delighted. The team showed great perseverance and sent a good message toward recovery from the major disaster."

Speaking from Aomori in the north of Japan, he extended his gratitude to the Japan women's team that beat the US 3-1 on penalties following a 2-2 draw in Sunday's final in Germany.

Prime minister has also spoken about the victory, calling it the "greatest gift" to the nation, and in particular those residents most affected by the March 11th earthquake and tsunami.

The team was victorious despite only being ranked as fourth at the outset. Its previous best finish was reaching the quarter-finals in 1995.

Written by Susan Ballion