Team USA Softball carries a perfect 4-0 record into its final game of group play on Sunday against Japan. Former Alabama outfielder Haylie McCleney has been a key cog in the United States lineup, in particular scoring the game-winning run against Australia on Saturday night.

McCleney officially is 8-for-11 at the plate with four additional walks, she has been responsible for three of Team USA's seven runs in the tournament.

The United States will play Japan on Sunday at 8 p.m. CT in what will be a preview of the gold medal matchup. Both teams enter 4-0 and have qualified for the championship game. The game will be televised on USA. The gold medal game featuring the same two opponents will be Tuesday at 6 a.m. CT on NBCSN.

The two nations are familiar with one meeting one another with the gold on the line. Japan defeated Team USA 3-1 in the 2008 Beijing Games to win the gold medal the last time softball was played in the Olympics. In the 2000 Olympics Team USA defeated Japan 2-1 in the gold medal game.

Team USA has only given up one run in the tournament so far, allowing one run to Australia in their extra-inning matchup. Japan has only allowed three runs throughout its four games, two runs to Mexico and one to Australia.

How Do Fans Sing 'Dixieland Delight' in Tuscaloosa, Alabama?

Alabama football fans add a few extra lyrics to 'Dixieland Delight' when it's played on the speakers in Bryant-Denny in Tuscaloosa, Alabama. What are they singing? And Why?

Alabama Athletes With NIL Deals

The biggest evolution in college athletics history is here. Check out which current Alabama athletes hold NIL deals in this ever-expanding and changing photo gallery.

More SEC Throwdowns: Who else Should Join the SEC

KEEP READING: Here are 50 of the most famous sports goofs

 

 

More From Tide 100.9