In addition to three players from the United States, Japan’s Saori Ariyoshi and Aya Miyama give that country multiple candidates ahead of Sunday’s final.
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The 23-year-old, who can play anywhere in defence and started the tournament on the left-wing in the defeat to France, has been impressive at right-back as Mark Simpson’s side progressed to the semi-finals.
Carli Lloyd, left, and Megan Rapinoe, center, are two of the eight players nominated for the World Cup’s Golden Ball.
Sasic missed a penalty in the game against the United States but is the tournament’s top scorer with six goals.
Midfielder Henry scored a superb goal against Mexico. Johnston has been an imperial presence in central defense throughout the World Cup.
She said: “I am literally so surprised to have even been nominated for the Federation Internationale de Football Association Women’s World Cup Golden Ball award”.
Hope Solo is one of three finalists for the Golden Glove Award as the best goalkeeper.
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Her tournament is not yet over with England having a third/fourth place play-off with Germany on Saturday night. Lloyd’s goals have carried Team U.S. in the knockout phase of the tournament. She is vying for the award with Germany’s Nadine Angerer and Ayumi Kaihori of Japan.
