SASKATOON, Saskatchewan -- Lisa Fernandez pitched a three-hitter as the United States won its fifth straight women's world softball championship Sunday with a 1-0 victory over Japan.

The United States, Japan, Taiwan and China all earned entry to the 2004 Olympics in Athens.

The Americans -- who haven't lost a round-robin game in the world championships since 1970 -- finished 10-0. They also beat Japan 1-0 on Saturday.

"I just pitched tonight and let my defense make the plays,'' Fernandez said. "Our defense is what won this championship for us.''

The unique playoff format gave a second life to Japan, who lost to the United States at the last world championships in 1998 and at the 2000 Sydney Olympics.

The Americans scored the only run in the third inning. Shortstop Natasha Watley hit a one-out single and stole second, before scoring on Leah O'Brien Amico's single.

Watley finished the tournament with a .516 batting average (16-for-31).

Japan put runners at first and third in the seventh inning, but the game ended on a popout.

"Lisa was outstanding today,'' U.S. head coach Mike Candrea said. "The mental toughness she possesses is unmatched in this game. She is a true warrior.''