Tuesday at the Women’s World Cup

Photo Abby Wambach, who had suggested that a referee targeted specific Americans for yellow cards, softened those comments. Credit Kevin C. Cox/Getty Images TUESDAY’S RESULT

Mizuho Sakaguchi scored in the 78th minute, and JAPAN, the defending champion, beat the NETHERLANDS, 2-1, in the final round-of-16 match. Kirsten van de Ven scored in extra time when the ball went off the arm of Japan goalkeeper Ayumi Kaihori, but the Dutch were unable to tie the score. (AP)

EASING UP

Abby Wambach softened critical comments she had made about the referee in the United States’ round-of-16 win over Colombia on Monday.

“It seemed like she was purposefully giving those to the players she knew were sitting on…