Women’s World Cup LIVE: England prepare for Colombia clash after Sweden set up Spain semi-final

England are preparing to face Colombia in the Women’s World Cup quarter-finals as the Lionesses continue their knockout campaign in Sydney on Saturday.

Earlier, Sweden held off a late Japan fightback to reach the semi-finals, leaving the tournament without a former winner in the last four ahead of England’s quarter-final against Colombia.

Sweden will play Spain in the semi-finals after La Roja defeated the Netherlands 2-1 to reach their first ever Women’s World Cup semi-final, thanks to Salma Paralluelo’s extra-time winner.

It’s England’s turn on Saturday as they face Colombia. The European champions survived a major scare against Nigeria in the last-16 and know they will need to improve when they take on a dangerous Colombia side, who shocked heavyweights Germany in the group stages.

Follow live updates from the Women’s World Cup ahead of England vs Colombia

Women’s World Cup LIVE: Japan vs Sweden

• Women’s World Cup quarter-finals underway as England prepare to face Colombia

• Quarter-final kicks off at 11:30am BST on Saturday at Sydney’s Olympic Stadium

• England’s Lauren James suspended for two matches ban after red card against Nigeria

• FULL TIME! Sweden survive late Japan comeback to reach World Cup semi-finals

• FULL TIME! Spain reach first ever Women’s World Cup semi-final thanks to Salma Paralluelo winner

Women’s World Cup LIVE: England vs Colombia

20:01 , Jamie Braidwood

Sarina Wiegman is one of the best coaches in the world at figuring out a tactical problem, but even she has now wondered whether she got it right against Nigeria. After hours of analysis following the last-16 tie, the thinking has been England should have gone to a back four.

It has influenced some of the approach ahead of the quarter-final against Colombia. Wiegman and her staff are expecting a similar game, and another battle. The latter, like with Nigeria, is not to just reductively describe Colombia as a “physical” team - although that is precisely how England have been preparing. Wiegman has also been planning for the fine side the South Americans are, with special attention paid to star forward Linda Caicedo.

It is more how England are now into classic tournament football, even if it is far from the historic surge through Euro 2022. While that almost became free-wheeling at times, this has been a slog.

Preview by Miguel Delaney

England reach World Cup dividing line as Sarina Wiegman faces crunch decision

Women’s World Cup LIVE

19:01 , Jamie Braidwood

England’s players took in Stadium Australia as they prepare to face Colombia tomorrow. The South American side are expected to bring a passionate and vocal support to the 80,000 capacity stadium. England have played there already, defeating Denmark 1-0 in their second game of the group stages.

Women’s World Cup LIVE

18:16 , Jamie Braidwood

Sarina Wiegman on Lauren James and how England will adjust to her absence:

“We will just play a football game. Of course there is pressure. There are two teams that are very good. It’s obvious that they want to do that too so that’s how we approach it.

“Colombia has done very well, they are a strong team and are very together. They have some powerful players and want to get the ball to their attacking players because they are unpredictable.

“Of course we have a squad of 23 and now we miss another player and we know how we want to fill in that position. It’s a team effort. We support each other.

“We prepare of course for every team and we look at the strengths and weaknesses of the team and how they show them. We also see there is a big crowd from Colombia so we have prepared for that.”

Women’s World Cup LIVE

17:29 , Jamie Braidwood

Mary Earps on England’s defence at the World Cup, which has yet to concede a goal from open play:

“We can take a lot of pride in the work we’ve done so far in the tournament. Some of our defensive work has been fantastic as a whole team. We have more gears we can go, I really do feel that. Every game it can be over in any moment. Nigeria was a fierce contest and I’m glad we could see that out. We showed great resilience. I think it’s always a reminder but we know that. We love the game, we love playing in World Cups and we want to be here as long as possible.

“I really believe the best is yet to come. There’s so much talent in the group and so many more levels we can go. That said, I think there’s an incredible wealth of talent and experience that we’ve had together as an international team but also with the teams we play for at club-level. I think it’s an exciting time to be an England player but we have to earn that right every day. We’re constantly looking to improve, drive our performances and our standards. We’re not sitting here happy to be here - we’re not satisfied, we’re not done, there’s more levels to go.”

Women’s World Cup LIVE

16:56 , Jamie Braidwood

Mary Earps on the support she has received to her shirt not being on sale: “I spoke about that before the tournament and expessed my views on it. I know that it is being looked into by the relevant parties at various levels, and it will be a conversation that we pick-up post tournament.

“I just want to thank everyone for their support on that. But I’m very much football-focused at the moment.”

Women’s World Cup LIVE: Mary Earps shirt petition reaches over 35,000 signatures

16:14 , Jamie Braidwood

A petition to force Nike to make the kit of England goalkeeper Mary Earps available for public purchase during the Women’s World Cup has reached over 35,000 signatures.

England’s home and away replica kits are available for fans to buy but the Lionesses goalkeeper jerseys have not been put up for sale by clothing giant Nike – the team’s kit supplier.

This is despite Earps being a genuine superstar of world football and arguably the best goalkeeper in the world – having been the Lionesses’s shot-stopper when they won the Euros last summer and being named Fifa’s Best Women’s Goalkeeper for 2022.

Petition to get Nike to sell England goalkeeper Earps’ shirt nears 35,000 signatures

Women’s World Cup LIVE: Sarina Wiegman has another problem to solve

15:32 , Jamie Braidwood

As Sarina Wiegman gathered with her staff in Lang Park, the mood was really one of relief rather than raucous celebration; puffed cheeks instead of pumped fists.

The England manager admitted she felt “10 years older” after Nigeria put her team through it for well over two hours. This unprecedented World Cup may be losing most of the biggest names, but nobody will be able to say the path was easy if the European champions do get to the final here. Quite the opposite, and for reasons greater than the fact Nigeria have clearly been underestimated.

Wiegman actually said it was as “intense” a game as she’s ever faced. One other reason for that, however, is exactly why this tournament has been so arduous as a whole.

Every time the manager solves one problem, it feels like an even bigger one presents itself. There’s always something bigger to fix.

Now, after impressively reshaping the team in the wake of Keira Walsh’s absence, she has to do so again for Lauren James’ red-card suspension.

By Miguel Delaney

In World Cup of revolving problems, Sarina Wiegman has another to solve

Women’s World Cup LIVE: The lowdown on Colombia ahead of England quarter-final

14:44 , Jamie Braidwood

Pedigree: At 25th, the South Americans are the lowest placed of the quarter-finalists in FIFA’s rankings, but, having already helped see off one of the pre-tournament favourites Germany in the group stage, they cannot be under-estimated. Runners-up to Brazil in last year’s Copa America Femenina, they travelled to Australia and New Zealand not only determined to better their previous best of reaching the last 16 in Canada in 2015, but of making a significant impression. Victory over an England side who, barring their thumping 6-1 Group D victory over China, have not been at their best, would certainly do that.

Style of play: Colombia have been described as “raw” in their approach to the game, an expression which says as much about their physicality - a behind-closed-doors warm-up game against the Republic of Ireland was abandoned at Ireland’s request after a bruising 20 minutes - as it does their freedom of expression. Abadia is not afraid to tinker with a system in which it is pace out wide which provides the threat, although his team is based on the solid foundation of a back four which have conceded only two goals so far in the tournament.

Women’s World Cup LIVE: England vs Colombia

14:30 , Jamie Braidwood

Sarina Wiegman is one of the best coaches in the world at figuring out a tactical problem, but even she has now wondered whether she got it right against Nigeria. After hours of analysis following the last-16 tie, the thinking has been England should have gone to a back four.

It has influenced some of the approach ahead of the quarter-final against Colombia. Wiegman and her staff are expecting a similar game, and another battle. The latter, like with Nigeria, is not to just reductively describe Colombia as a “physical” team - although that is precisely how England have been preparing. Wiegman has also been planning for the fine side the South Americans are, with special attention paid to star forward Linda Caicedo.

It is more how England are now into classic tournament football, even if it is far from the historic surge through Euro 2022. While that almost became free-wheeling at times, this has been a slog.

Preview by Miguel Delaney

England reach World Cup dividing line as Sarina Wiegman faces crunch decision

Women’s World Cup LIVE: The lowdown on Colombia ahead of England quarter-final

14:02 , Jamie Braidwood

Coach: Renowned for developing talent, 67-year-old Nelson Abadia initially learned his trade in youth and lower-division football and has worked across South America. After a spell in charge of the America de Cali women’s team, he was appointed Colombia boss in 2017 and guided them to World Cup qualification via an impressive Copa America Femenina campaign.

Key players: Two women at opposite ends of their careers have carried the nation’s hopes in some style Down Under. Inspirational skipper Catalina Usme, 33, and Real Madrid’s 18-year-old Linda Caicedo, widely regarded as a superstar in the making, have each scored two of the five goals they have managed in the competition to date. As well as Usme and Caicedo, who finished top scorer in the Colombian league as a 14-year-old, Abadia has Atletico Madrid midfielder Leicy Santos, Levante forward Mayra Ramirez and Real Sociedad defender Manuela Venegas at his disposal.

Women’s World Cup LIVE

13:32 , Jamie Braidwood

Captain Millie Bright insists England have already moved on from learning they would lose Lauren James for at least Saturday’s World Cup quarter-final after the forward was sent off late in the last-16 victory over Nigeria.

The 21-year-old was shown a red after stepping on the back of defender Michelle Alozie, resulting in an automatic one-match ban that could be extended to three games by Fifa’s disciplinary committee, meaning her tournament could be over.

James posted an apology to Alozie on Twitter on Tuesday and also vowed to learn from the incident.

If there is one team-mate who truly appreciates what James is feeling it is Bright, who four years ago in France became the first player in Lionesses history to be sent off in a World Cup knockout encounter when she was dismissed for a second bookable offence in the semi-final against the United States.

“I think it is really important that we look after each other,” Bright said. “I have been through that. I know exactly how that feels.”

It’s done – Millie Bright says England have moved on from Lauren James red card

Women’s World Cup LIVE

12:48 , Jamie Braidwood

England team news ahead of Colombia clash

After her red card against Nigeria, Lauren James will serve a two -match suspension and will miss England’s quarter-final against Colombia.

With England’s player of the tournament unavailable, Sarina Wiegman has a selection headache as she looks to replace the creative heartbeat of the team. James shone in the No 10 position of England’s new 3-5-2 system, with Manchester United’s Ella Toone an option.

If Wiegman continues with a back three, another option she could have is replacing James with Chloe Kelly and playing the winger and Lauren Hemp either side of striker Alessia Russo in a 3-4-3.

Keira Walsh made her return from injury in the win over Nigeria, but did not look completely comfortable in England’s new system and came off with cramp at the end of extra time. Walsh is one of England’s most important players but Katie Zelem impressed in the 6-1 win against China and could be called upon again. Another player pushing for a start is Bethany England, with Russo often left isolated against Nigeria.

England’s defence is looking settled and is unlikely to change, but three players are a booking away from being suspended from the semi-finals if England make it through. Georgia Stanway, Bronze and Hemp all come into the match on a yellow card.

Women’s World Cup LIVE

12:03 , Jamie Braidwood

All 23 England players trained at the Central Coast stadium this afternoon, with the Lionesses not set to have any injury concerns ahead of the Colombia quarter-final.

Suspensions, though, are obviously an issue with Lauren James now banned for two games.

Women’s World Cup LIVE

11:22 , Jamie Braidwood

Sarina Wiegman ahead of England’s quarter-final against Colombia:

“I hope we don’t have that much stress [as against Nigeria]. We’ve seen in this tournament not one game is easy for anyone. It’s so competitive. It’s the beauty of the game and the growth of the women’s game. I hope it’s decided before that but let’s hope it goes our way.

“Football is competitive. We have a plan and we play as smart and as aggressive as we can. We’re not making a plan to surprise Colombia. We have our style of play and we have analysed Colombia.

“This is another different game. We expect also a different performance and hopefully a good result for us. We know how we want to play but also what Colombia wants to do so we have our plan. We will try our best to win the game.”

Women’s World Cup LIVE

11:02 , Jamie Braidwood

Mary Earps said England have not dwelled on the loss of influential striker Lauren James from their World Cup quarter-final clash with Colombia.

A standout in the group stage, James was shown a red card in the European champions’ shootout victory over Nigeria in the last-16 after a stamp to the back of Michelle Alozie. She was suspended two games after a disciplinary review.

“To be honest with you, it’s not something that we’ve really spoken a lot about, because we’re so focused on the game,” Earps told reporters on Friday. “Naturally, we want everybody to be available at all times. But the situation is what it is.

England coach Sarina Wiegman said they approach the 21-year-old’s absence as they did that of Keira Walsh, who missed a game-and-a-half with a knee injury.

“We have a squad of 23... and now we miss another player,” Wiegman said. “It’s just a team effort, and we support each other and we fill in places that come free.”

Reuters

Women’s World Cup LIVE

10:48 , Jamie Braidwood

Looking ahead to tomorrow, England face Colombia in the Women’s World Cup quarter-finals as the Lionesses continue their knockout campaign in Sydney.

The European champions survived a major scare against Nigeria in the last-16, winning a tense penalty shoot-out after playing extra time with 10 players as star forward Lauren James was sent off.

James, who has been England’s player of the tournament, will be suspended for the quarter-final after the 21-year-old stamped on the back of Nigeria’s Michelle Alozie.

The Lionesses know they will need to improve when they take on a dangerous Colombia side, who shocked heavyweights Germany in the group stages and progressed to their first ever World Cup quarter-final thanks to a 1-0 win over Jamaica in the last-16.

England defender Lucy Bronze admitted the Lionesses are “not happy” with their level of performances so far, but victory against Colombia would move Sarina Wiegman’s side a step away from a place in their first ever Women’s World Cup final.

Here’s everything you need to know.

England vs Colombia: Kick-off time and how to watch on TV

FULL TIME! Women’s World Cup: Japan 1-2 Sweden

10:40 , Jamie Braidwood

Friday 11 August

QF1: Spain 2-1 Netherlands (after extra time)

QF2: Japan 1-2 Sweden

Saturday 12 August

QF3: Australia vs France (08:00, Brisbane) - ITV 1

QF4: England vs Colombia (11:30, Sydney) - ITV 1

Tuesday 15 August

SF1: Spain vs Sweden (09:00, Auckland)

Wednesday 16 August

SF2: Winner QF3 vs Winner QF4 (11:00, Sydney)

FULL TIME! Women’s World Cup: Japan 1-2 Sweden

10:33 , Jamie Braidwood

Japan just left it too late - they were outplayed in the first half and didn’t come to life until Jun Endo was restored to their left side. By then, Sweden were 2-0 up after converting a 50th minute penalty, awarded for a soft handball. Japan had their own chance from the spot, but couldn’t take it as Ueki missed the target. Had they scored, Sweden would have had 10 more minutes to hold on.

FULL TIME! Women’s World Cup: Japan 1-2 Sweden

10:29 , Jamie Braidwood

There are tears for Japan! The team of the tournament are out, and the World Cup has lost another favourite. Sweden will play Spain in the semi-finals, and this result means there will be a new winner of the competition.

FULL TIME! Women’s World Cup: Japan 1-2 Sweden

10:28 , Jamie Braidwood

SWEDEN HANG ON! THEY KNOCK OUT JAPAN IN A THRILLER!

Women’s World Cup: Japan 1-2 Sweden

10:26 , Jamie Braidwood

90+9 mins: Endo looks to carry the ball into the box and play a one-two... there’s no space at all with so many Sweden defenders, and they are able to ease Ueki off the ball.

That could be it.

Women’s World Cup: Japan 1-2 Sweden

10:24 , Jamie Braidwood

90+7 mins: A good run from Janogy down the right burns some more time. There are boos in the stadium as Sweden try to run the clock down.

Women’s World Cup: Japan 1-2 Sweden

10:22 , Jamie Braidwood

90+4 mins: Sweden get a corner and look to run some time down. There are some Japan players in tears on the sidelines.

Women’s World Cup: Japan 1-2 Sweden

10:20 , Jamie Braidwood

90+1 mins: Sweden have to hang on for dear life now... this match has gone through so many swings of momentum.

Women’s World Cup: Japan 1-2 Sweden

10:18 , Jamie Braidwood

90 mins: There will be TEN minutes of added time! Now Japan are flinging the ball into the box, and Sweden scramble clear! Then Seike drags the shot wide... but it’s all Japan!

GOAL! Women’s World Cup: Japan 1-2 Sweden

10:14 , Jamie Braidwood

GOAL! Japan are back in it! And there is still time! Two substitutes combine, first as Kiko Seike dribbles in between a couple of defenders and pulls it back. It drops to Honoka Hayashi, who thrashes in from close range.

It’s the first goal Sweden have conceded in over seven hours... and now Japan have the momentum!

What a finish this is going to be.

Women’s World Cup: Japan 0-2 Sweden

10:13 , Jamie Braidwood

85 mins: OFF THE BAR! How on earth has this stayed out?! Japan hit the crossbar again as Fujino’s free-kick crashes against the post!

Women’s World Cup: Japan 0-2 Sweden

10:08 , Jamie Braidwood

81 mins: This miss has really sucked some momentum out of Japan’s sails.

Women’s World Cup: Japan 0-2 Sweden

10:04 , Jamie Braidwood

76 mins: What a chance that was for Japan - a goal while they were on top and they would have been confident of going on to find the equaliser. But that’s a huge blow to their momentum.

Women’s World Cup: Japan 0-2 Sweden

10:03 , Jamie Braidwood

MISSED BY UEKI!

DRAMA!

The penalty thunders the underside of the crossbar and it rebounds out!

Sweden, once again, survive by the barest of margins!

Women’s World Cup: Japan 0-2 Sweden

10:01 , Jamie Braidwood

PENALTY TO JAPAN! A lifeline?

Women’s World Cup: Japan 0-2 Sweden

10:00 , Jamie Braidwood

72 mins: Sweden know they are under some pressure now, so make a double change to try and get some legs back on. Off come Asllani and Rolfo, and they are replaced by Madelen Janogy and Lina Hurtig, who scored the winning penalty against USA.

Women’s World Cup: Japan 0-2 Sweden

09:58 , Jamie Braidwood

69 mins: This is much better from Japan, who are on top for the first time in the match! They are finally able to play their way through Sweden, but Endo is unable to get away from the defence. But Japan keep it and work another chance for Fujino, who forces Musovic into a save down to her left!

Women’s World Cup: Japan 0-2 Sweden

09:55 , Jamie Braidwood

65 mins: But a chance now for Japan! Fujino makes a good run down the right and creates space for the cross. It breaks to Hasegawa, who lifts her shot over the crossbar from the angle.

Women’s World Cup: Japan 0-2 Sweden

09:54 , Jamie Braidwood

61 mins: Sweden absorb a spell of pressure from Japan, who have yet to trouble Zecira Musovic or force her into any sort of save. That’s quite remarkable, from a team who came into the quarter-finals having scored more goals than anyone else.

Women’s World Cup: Japan 0-2 Sweden

09:49 , Jamie Braidwood

56 mins: This is by far Sweden’s best performance of the World Cup. They are heading for a remarkable fourth semi-final in a row at a major competition (World Cup, Olympics, Euros, World Cup), which is just a stunning spell of consistency.

They didn’t light up the group stage, instead grinding out effective, efficient wins. They escaped against the USA after getting to penalies, but they’ve been dominant against Japan.

Women’s World Cup: Japan 0-2 Sweden

09:41 , Jamie Braidwood

51 mins: But that’s a disaster for Japan, who have never been allowed to settle in this match. Japan go back to their bench, as Riko Ueki replaces Tanaka.

Sweden had threatened just before the penalty, as Johanna Rytting Kaneryd got down the right and forced a strong stop from Yamashita in the Japan goal.

But it led to the corner, and Japan once again struggled to deal with. Even if Nagano was unlucky that the ball hit her arm from such close range.

GOAL! Women’s World Cup: Japan 0-2 Sweden

09:37 , Jamie Braidwood

It’s a long way back for Japan now! Filippa Angeldal doubles Sweden’s lead with a composed finish into the bottom left corner!

PENALTY! Women’s World Cup: Japan 0-1 Sweden

09:36 , Jamie Braidwood

Sweden have a penalty! It’s a handball on Fuka Nagano, who had her arm up in the box! Huge chance for Sweden!

HALF TIME! Women’s World Cup: Japan 0-1 Sweden

09:32 , Jamie Braidwood

This is the first time Japan have been behind all tournament - how will they respond?

They make a change at half-time, and it’s a reversal of the change they made from the Norway win: Jun Endo is back on the left and is on for Sugita. That should give Japan a better balance.

HALF TIME! Women’s World Cup: Japan 0-1 Sweden

09:24 , Jamie Braidwood

And that goal puts Ilestedt level with Diani, Popp and Roord and one behind Miyazawa in the top scorer standings.

Golden Boot standings

Five goals

Hinata Miyazawa (Japan) - one assist

Four goals

Kadidiatou Diani (France) - three assists

Amanda Ilestedt (Sweden)

Alexandra Popp (Germany)

Jill Roord (Netherlands)

HALF TIME! Women’s World Cup: Japan 0-1 Sweden

09:21 , Jamie Braidwood

The sight of Ilestedt celebrating in the penalty box, surrounded by her teammates, is becoming quite a familiar one.

HALF TIME! Women’s World Cup: Japan 0-1 Sweden

09:18 , Jamie Braidwood

What a stunning first half that was from Sweden, who take a deserved 1-0 lead into the break against Japan.

Team of the tournament so far? Japan have not looked anywhere near like it due to how Sweden have gone at them.

Women’s World Cup: Japan 0-1 Sweden

09:13 , Jamie Braidwood

41 mins: POST! Sweden are so close to making it 2-0! Asllani catches the half-volley sweetly from the edge of the box. It perhaps takes a slight deflection and looks to be spinning towards the corner, but Yamashita somehow manages to get an important touch on it! Some save.

Women’s World Cup: Japan 0-1 Sweden

09:09 , Jamie Braidwood

38 mins: Japan look to be disrupted by how Sweden have approached this game and they have not looked comfortable. Sweden are playing so much better than they did against the USA, in what was such a passive performance.

GOAL! Women’s World Cup: Japan 0-1 Sweden

09:02 , Jamie Braidwood

A mess at the back for Japan, and Sweden take the lead following the set-piece!

Set-pieces were always going to be key and Japan struggled to deal with the deep free kick from Sweden. Goalkeeper Yamashita attempted to punch and Japan couldn’t clear from there. It breaks to Ilestedt, the defender turned poacher, who turns it in for the opening goal of the day!

And Ilestedt has another! Her fourth goal of the World Cup so far, putting her joint set in the golden boot standings.

Women’s World Cup: Japan 0-0 Sweden

08:59 , Jamie Braidwood

28 mins: And now Japan with their best moment of the match so far! Shimizu is able to get down the right with an excellent run and flashes the cross across goal - Sugita was arriving but couldn’t direct it back goalwards, but there’s Japan’s threat.

Women’s World Cup: Japan 0-0 Sweden

08:56 , Jamie Braidwood

24 mins: CHANCE! What a miss this is from Stina Blackstenius. Sweden go back to front with one long ball, that Saki Kumagai struggles to deal with. The defender loses the race to the Sweden striker, who then snatches at the chance when she probably had much more time. It’s lashed well wide in the end.

Women’s World Cup: Japan 0-0 Sweden

08:54 , Jamie Braidwood

22 mins: Feels like both teams are just taking a breather after the fast start. Japan are certaintly in a game here. They’re not having the control they enjoyed against Norway, nor are they finding the space they enjoyed so much against Spain. Sweden are making it difficult for them.

Women’s World Cup: Japan 0-0 Sweden

08:49 , Jamie Braidwood

17 mins: Japan are always looking for the precise and intricate pass. Tanaka almost finds it as Japan flow forward - she had Sugita making the overlapping run on the left flank, but it’s just cut out.

Women’s World Cup: Japan 0-0 Sweden

08:45 , Jamie Braidwood

14 mins: Nice play from Sweden again, who are finding the gaps down the sides of the Japan defence as Rolfo and Asllani tuck inside and exploit the spaces in midfield.

Andersson’s first inswinging corner is a complete waste and goes straight out.

Women’s World Cup: Japan 0-0 Sweden

08:43 , Jamie Braidwood

11 mins: Japan win a free kick 25 yards from goal after Tanaka is clipped from behind - they again avoid the cross, instead going for a short free-kick routine, but Sweden cut it out in the box .

Women’s World Cup: Japan 0-0 Sweden

08:39 , Jamie Braidwood

7 mins: It’s been a fast start - Sweden have come out and are playing a lot more aggressively than they did against the USA, looking to take the game to Japan and be on the front foot. It could be a dangerous game against the Japan counter-attack.

Women’s World Cup: Japan 0-0 Sweden

08:34 , Jamie Braidwood

3 mins: A first test for Japan as Sweden win a free kick high and wide on the right side. Asllani swings it in but Japan win the header and clear well.

KICK-OFF! Women’s World Cup: Japan vs Sweden

08:31 , Jamie Braidwood

1 min: Underway in Auckland! Japan win a corner inside the first minute and take it short, which perhaps tells you a lot about where the strengths and weaknesses lie...

Women’s World Cup: Japan vs Sweden

08:30 , Jamie Braidwood

Here we go! It’s Japan vs Sweden in the World Cup quarter-finals, in what is a fascinating test of both teams given what we have seen so far.

Can Japan continue to look so fluid against a team like Sweden, who locked out the USA with a strong defensive performance? And how will they look to cause Japan problems against set-pieces?

It’s such a new challenge for both teams, on what is a huge stage at Eden Park.

Women’s World Cup LIVE: Japan vs Sweden

08:24 , Jamie Braidwood

What makes Japan so interesting?

The 2011 champions were considered to be a side in transition but have so far played the best football of the tournament. They have a clear tactical plan and Japan’s players are well drilled in the system they have chosen to play. Japan finished the group stage with the most goals and expected goals (xG) of any team at the tournament, but it’s about the only statistical category in which they do dominate.

Japan aren’t near the top when it comes to passes, possession, or even shots. Everything is instead built on efficiency and maximising the quality of their goal-scoring opportunities. Japan’s shape, with wing-backs and two No 10s, has allowed this, while the outstanding service from Yui Hasegawa and Jun Endo feeds the players who have taken their chances.

All of this could change the second Japan face a side who are able to counter their system, such as Sweden. Everything has gone right so far for Japan, but the high-pressure environment of a knockout game is a different test.

Women’s World Cup LIVE: Japan vs Sweden

08:23 , Jamie Braidwood

One thing that will be key is set-pieces: a high percentage of Sweden’s goals have come from corners, particularly towards Amanda Ilestedt.

Ilestedt has scored three goals already at the World Cup from inswinging corners alone.

Women’s World Cup LIVE

08:10 , Jamie Braidwood

Zecira Musovic was Sweden’s hero in the last-16 win against the United States, making several key saves in normal and extra time to get her side through to the penalty shoot-out.

It was an impressive performance from the goalkeeper, who now faces the team she says is the most impressive she has seen at the World Cup.

“I’m at a loss for words,” Musovic her performance against the USA. “I don’t know what to say except that I am extremely proud that we persevered against an extremely strong USA team that pressed for 120 minutes. We’re not going home yet.

“I think Japan is maybe the most exciting team and maybe the team who’s impressed me the most so far.”

Women’s World Cup LIVE

07:55 , Jamie Braidwood

Team news!

Japan make one change to their starting line-up, with the impressive left wing-back Jun Endo dropping to the bench and midfielder Hina Sugita coming into the side, in what could be a formation switch from 3-4-3 to 4-3-3.

Sweden are unchanged from the side that started against the USA, although many of the substitutes bench of course made an impact later in extra time against the defending champions.

Japan: Yamashita, Minami, Kumagai, Takahashi, Shimizu, Sugita, Nagano, Hasegawa, Miyazawa, Mina Tanaka, Fujino

Subs: Momoko Tanaka, Hirao, Miyake, Naomoto, Ueki, Endo, Hayashi, Seike, Moriya, Hamano, Chiba, Ishikawa

Sweden: Musovic, Andersson, Eriksson, Ilestedt, Bjorn, Asllani, Angeldal, Rolfo, Kaneryd, Rubensson, Blackstenius

Subs: Falk, Enblom, Sembrant, Lennartsson, Sandberg, Janogy, Hurtig, Jakobsson, Blomqvist, Seger, Bennison, Schough

Women’s World Cup LIVE

07:43 , Jamie Braidwood

Australia coach Tony Gustavsson said he would have no hesitation bringing Sam Kerr back into his starting 11 for Saturday’s Women’s World Cup quarter-final against France if she is cleared by the team’s medical staff.

After sitting out three group matches with a calf injury, Australia’s talismanic captain came off the bench late in the 2-0 win over Denmark, raising home fans’ hopes of a bigger role for her against France at Brisbane’s Lang Park.

Barring a surprise 3-2 loss to Nigeria, Australia have coped well without their star striker, netting six goals in their last two matches.

But Gustavsson said he had no fears about upsetting the Matildas’ momentum by using Kerr from kick-off.

“I definitely would never ever see Sam as a disturbance to the team,” the Swede told a press conference on Friday.

“And I want to be very clear here and now to say if Sam is fit to play 90 minutes, she is starting. That’s not even a question, and the team knows it.

“We’re talking about Sam Kerr. Whether she is ready to play 90 minutes plus extra time, that’s to be decided tonight.”

Reuters

Women’s World Cup LIVE

07:23 , Jamie Braidwood

In case you missed it earlier, substitute Salma Paralluelo scored an extra-time winner to lift Spain to a nervy 2-1 victory over the Netherlands on Friday and into the semi-finals of the Women’s World Cup for the first time.

The 19-year-old Barcelona winger broke the 1-1 deadlock when she latched onto a through ball, cut a Dutch defender inside and out and unleashed a shot that clanged off the post into the net.

The sixth-ranked La Roja, who had not advanced past the round of 16 in two previous two World Cup appearances, will face either Japan or Sweden for a place in the final in Auckland on Tuesday .

All the goals came late in a tight game with Mariona Caldentey scoring Spain’s first from a penalty kick in the 81st minute after Dutch defender Stefanie Van der Gragt had handled the ball inside the box.

Van der Gragt, in her final match before retirement, earned some redemption when she equalised in the 91st minute to send the contest to extra time in front of 32,021 fans at Wellington Regional Stadium.

The ninth-ranked Dutch, who were runners-up to the United States four years ago in France, became the latest tournament favourites eliminated in a tournament full of upsets, with the U.S., Germany, Canada and Brazil already gone.

Spain will play the winner of Japan vs Sweden.

Reuters

Women’s World Cup LIVE

06:59 , Jamie Braidwood

Sweden coach Peter Gerhardsson looks ahead to facing Japan in the World Cup quarter-finals.

“It’ll be a one-on-one situation that will decide this game. Of course, we need to try to stop their passing game.

“We’ve talked a lot about if you want to gain possession you can do that very high up the field. We’re going to have to do both.

“We’re going to have to be patient ... We’re going to have to work harder.

“We can win against them in a one-on-one situation but it’s going to take a few more passes.

“But when you do get in possession, you’re going to have to be very fast and take the opportunity and make use of our physique and our strength.”

Women’s World Cup LIVE

06:39 , Jamie Braidwood

Japan’s Hinata Miyazawa may be leading the golden boot standings but captain Magdalena Eriksson says Sweden will face threat from all areas in today’s quarter-final.

“I think that the whole team is a threat. Instead of focusing on one player on this Japanese team, I think it’s important to look at their whole team.

“The most impressive thing ... is that it doesn’t really matter who is on the end of their attacks. They are all in sync and have such a clear style of play.”

Women’s World Cup LIVE

06:19 , Jamie Braidwood

The race for the Women’s World Cup golden boot is taking shape with the knockout stages underway in Australia and New Zealand.

Hinata Miyazawa moved back to the top of the standings as the in-form striker rounded off Japan’s 3-1 win over Norway in the last-16, moving her to five goals in four games.

Alexandra Popp, one of the pre-tournament favourites for the golden boot, had joined Miyazawa on four goals but the Germany captain will be unable to add any more after the two-time champions crashed out in the group stages.

Lauren James is among those on three goals, but the forward has been handed a two-match ban by Fifa after her red card against Nigeria.

Women’s World Cup golden boot: Who’s leading the top-scorer standings?

Women’s World Cup LIVE

05:59 , Jamie Braidwood

England striker Bethany England warned it would be more dangerous to underestimate Colombia than worry about their “physical” approach ahead of Saturday’s quarter-final clash at the Women’s World Cup.

Colombia played a part in the biggest shock of the tournament so far in beating Germany as the two-time champions crashed out of the World Cup in the group stages, but the South American side have also earned a reputation for their robust style.

A pre-World Cup friendly against Ireland was abandoned when it became ‘overly physical’ - while Germany complained about the rough treatment they received in the 2-1 defeat.

It’s been a World Cup of surprises so far and the Lionesses survived a major scare against Nigeria in the last-16 as they advanced on penalties, after playing extra time with 10 players following Lauren James’ red card.

And England said Sarina Wiegman’s side are more concerned about not taking Colombia lightly, while insisting they can also match their fight if the quarter-final does turn physical.

Bethany England reveals ‘biggest danger’ facing Lionesses against Colombia

Women’s World Cup LIVE

05:57 , Jamie Braidwood

Colombia will use its status as the last nation of the Americas at the Women’s World Cup as motivation to beat England in Saturday’s quarter-final, coach Nelson Abadia said.

All other teams from Latin America, as well as the United States and Canada, were eliminated by the round-of-16, leaving 25th-ranked Colombia an unlikely survivor amongst the European and Asian powers in the last eight.

“To be representing the whole of the Americas at the moment is important,” Abadia told reporters on Friday.

“Because of everything that happens around this national team - to have all this positive energy not only from Colombia but from the whole continent - is beneficial.”

Colombia head into their first World Cup quarter-final at Sydney’s Stadium Australia as underdogs against England but the South Americans have already proved themselves against quality European opposition in their 2-1 upset of Germany in the group stage.

Reuters

Women’s World Cup LIVE

05:39 , Jamie Braidwood

Lauren James has been handed a two-game ban by Fifa after being sent off during England’s last-16 win over Nigeria, meaning she will miss both Saturday’s quarter-final with Colombia and the subsequent World Cup semi-final should her teammates progress.

James was shown a red card after standing on Nigeria defender Michelle Alozie during the knockout game, which England won via a penalty shootout.

The Chelsea forward was given an automatic one-match suspension and feared being ruled out of the tournament altogether, with Fifa typically increasing cases of “violent conduct” to a three-game ban. However, the governing body’s disciplinary committee showed some leniency and James could now return for the World Cup final, should England make it to the showpiece on Sunday 20 August in Sydney.

James had apologised for the incident, posting in response to a tweet from Alozie: “All my love and respect to you. I am sorry for what happened. Also, for our England fans and my team-mates, playing with and for you is my greatest honour and I promise to learn from my experience.”

Lauren James handed ban for World Cup red card

FULL TIME! Women’s World Cup LIVE: Spain 2-1 Netherlands

05:21 , Jamie Braidwood

Spain will play the winners of Japan vs Sweden, with that match kicking off in Auckland later today.

Japan have been the standout team of the tournament so far in Australia and New Zealand, thrashing Spain 4-0 in the group stages, and progressed to the quarter-finals after a 3-1 win over Norway in the last-16.

The 2011 World Cup champions are the tournament’s top scorers so far, with striker Hinata Miyazawa leading the golden boot standings with five goals from four games, as Japan have emerged as one of the favourites for the title.

But Sweden offer a true test of those ambitions, after the Olympic silver medalists knocked out the defending champions United States on penalties in the last-16. After a 0-0 draw against the USA, Sweden progressed in dramatic fashion after Lina Hurtig’s penalty was ruled to have crossed the line by an inch.

Japan vs Sweden: Kick-off time and how to watch on TV

FULL TIME! Women’s World Cup LIVE: Spain 2-1 Netherlands

05:09 , Jamie Braidwood

Spain become the first team through to the semi-final stages, and potentially a rematch with Japan.

Friday 11 August

QF1: Spain 2-1 Netherlands (after extra time)

QF2: Japan vs Sweden (08:30, Auckland) - BBC One

Saturday 12 August

QF3: Australia vs France (08:00, Brisbane) - ITV 1

QF4: England vs Colombia (11:30, Sydney) - ITV 1

Women’s World Cup TV schedule: How to watch every match today

FULL TIME! Women’s World Cup LIVE: Spain 2-1 Netherlands

05:01 , Jamie Braidwood

A historic goal for Spain: Paralluelo becomes their youngest-ever World Cup goalscorer, with a strike that sends them through to their first ever World Cup semi-final.

FULL TIME! Women’s World Cup LIVE: Spain 2-1 Netherlands

04:56 , Jamie Braidwood

Here’s the moment that won it for Spain - what a goal from Salma Paralluelo, who was dropped to the bench for the quarter-final but then made her impact as a substitute.

FULL TIME! Women’s World Cup LIVE: Spain 2-1 Netherlands

04:47 , Jamie Braidwood

SPAIN ARE THROUGH! Victory means they advance to their first ever Women’s World Cup, with Salma Paralluelo the hero after her late winner!

The Netherlands had their chances through Lineth Beerensteyn after forcing extra time, but the 2019 runners-up couldn’t take them.

Women’s World Cup LIVE: Spain 2-1 Netherlands

04:45 , Jamie Braidwood

120 mins: Two minutes added on, and Van Domselaar is going up for the Netherlands corner... but it’s played short and then Groenen passes out of play. Missed opportunity!

Women’s World Cup LIVE: Spain 2-1 Netherlands

04:44 , Jamie Braidwood

118 mins: Spain are doing a better job of closing this out but the Netherlands are starting to increase the pressure. Not long now for Spain to hold on...

Women’s World Cup LIVE: Spain 2-1 Netherlands

04:38 , Jamie Braidwood

111 mins: What a moment for Spain, if they can hold on. Paralluelo becomes Spain’s youngest ever goalscorer at the Women’s World Cup, and what a rising star she is.

It came just moments after Beerensteyn had another chance to put the Netherlands ahead - this time the forward lifted a volley over the bar from six yards after it broke in the box.

GOAL! Women’s World Cup LIVE: Spain 2-1 Netherlands

04:34 , Jamie Braidwood

SALMA PARALLUELO!!! What a goal this is from the 19-year-old, who could have made herself Spain’s hero!

It’s brilliant hold-up play from Jenni Hermoso, who then plays the ball around the corner and releases Paralluelo in behind. Aniek Nouwen makes the error of standing of, and Paralluelo works a yard of space to drill a stunning finish off the post and in!

Women’s World Cup LIVE: Spain 1-1 Netherlands

04:32 , Jamie Braidwood

106 mins: What a chance! That could have been it for the Netherlands! The electric Lineth Beerensteyn bursts through the Spain defence, who stand off her, and gets into the box. All the forward had to add was the finish, but it’s dragged past the post!

HALF TIME! Women’s World Cup LIVE: Spain 1-1 Netherlands

04:27 , Jamie Braidwood

Half time in extra time: Daphne van Domselaar was not really tested in those 15 minutes and Spain have stopped playing. If you would have offered Netherlands penalties when they were 1-0 down, they would have taken it. Now after getting the equaliser, it looks like they are playing for it.

Women’s World Cup LIVE: Spain 1-1 Netherlands

04:23 , Jamie Braidwood

104 mins: Spain’s attack now feels very predictable. The Netherlands almost get through with Beerensteyn racing to chase a long ball in behind. Spain goalkeeper Coll has to be sharp to get off her line and clear.

Women’s World Cup LIVE: Spain 1-1 Netherlands

04:19 , Jamie Braidwood

99 mins: Double change for Spain: and here comes Alexia Putellas. The two-time Ballon d’Or winner replaces Mariona Caldentey, with Esther Gonzalez also off. Eva Navarro is also on, so Spain have now made their six changes.

Women’s World Cup LIVE: Spain 1-1 Netherlands

04:17 , Jamie Braidwood

98 mins: The Netherlands have really benefitted from their change of shape, switching from 3-5-2 to get better support on the wings.

Women’s World Cup LIVE: Spain 1-1 Netherlands

04:16 , Jamie Braidwood

93 mins: What a clearance! That’s incredible from Ivana Andrés to deny Katja Snoeijs an open goal. Dominique Janssen made the overlapping run and put in a great ball across the box, but Andres somehow reached to flick it away.

EXTRA TIME! Women’s World Cup LIVE: Spain 1-1 Netherlands

04:10 , Jamie Braidwood

So the first quarter-final of the Women’s World Cup heads to extra time, after Stephanie van der Gragt’s dramatic equaliser rescued the Netherlands.

It was quite an incredible collapse from Spain, who completely forgot how to play after going 1-0 up through Caldentey’s penalty. It feels like the Netherlands have the momentum.

Spain are yet to bring on Alexia Putellas.

Women’s World Cup LIVE: Spain 1-1 Netherlands

04:03 , Jamie Braidwood

90+11 mins: The Van der Gragt rollercoaster almost took another twist, as the centre-back slices a clearance and it almost ends up in the back of the Netherlands net. Thankfully for her, Van Domselaar made the save.

To make this story even more incredible, Van der Gragt is retiring after the World Cup, so her equaliser has just saved her chances of playing another match.

Women’s World Cup LIVE: Spain 1-1 Netherlands

03:57 , Jamie Braidwood

90+5 mins: And there’s still a lot of time to play before we go to extra time... can either team get a winner? I cannot believe how open Spain were after they went 1-0 up, or how late the Netherlands waited to start playing like this! Spain also took off Aitana Bonmati moments before Van der Gragt’s equaliser...

GOAL! Women’s World Cup LIVE: Spain 1-1 Netherlands

03:53 , Jamie Braidwood

90+1 mins: UNBELIEVABLE! Netherlands are level and its Stefanie van der Gragt, who conceded Spain’s penalty, with a thumping finish! The Netherlands had thrown Van der Gragt forward in search of a goal and the centre-back delivers, but in a way no one could have expected! The defender is played through and whacks a first-time finish into the corner from just outside of the box! What a stunning moment, and redemption for Van der Gragt!

Women’s World Cup LIVE: Spain 1-0 Netherlands

03:52 , Jamie Braidwood

90 mins: TWELVE minutes of time added on! That’s loads of time, and Spain are suddenly looking very nervous!

Women’s World Cup LIVE: Spain 1-0 Netherlands

03:51 , Jamie Braidwood

89 mins: The Netherland are suddenly attacking with purpose and intensity - where has this been?!

Beerensteyn gets into the box and weaves in between the Spain challenges - but then slices her shot wide after creating room.

Women’s World Cup LIVE: Spain 1-0 Netherlands

03:49 , Jamie Braidwood

85 mins: CHANCE! The Netherlands have nothing to lose now... and almost go racing through on goal! Beerensteyn suddenly finds space down the wing and is able to drive into the box. She had support with her, but elects to shoot at goal and it’s straight at goalkeeper Coll.

Women’s World Cup LIVE: Spain 1-0 Netherlands

03:46 , Jamie Braidwood

81 mins: SAVE! Wow - what an effort that was from Teresa Abelleira! From the halfway line, the midfielder tries to lob Van Domselaar, who has to scamper back and tip it over the bar!

GOAL! Women’s World Cup LIVE: Spain 1-0 Netherlands

03:42 , Jamie Braidwood

SPAIN TAKE THE LEAD FROM THE SPOT!

Mariona Caldentey holds her nerve and sends Van Domselaar the wrong way! It goes in off the post and Spain have a deserved lead, you have to say.

Women’s World Cup LIVE: Spain 0-0 Netherlands

03:40 , Jamie Braidwood

78 mins: Now... a check for a Spain penalty! Paralluelo’s cross clearly strikes Van der Gragt’s hand... but is it inside or outside?! The camera angle clearly shows it’s inside... penalty!

Women’s World Cup LIVE: Spain 0-0 Netherlands

03:38 , Jamie Braidwood

76 mins: Spain are forced into a change at centre-back as Cordina stays down after winning a header on the halfway line. Ivana Andrés, woh played in the group stages, takes her place. Alexia Putellas continues to watch on.

Women’s World Cup LIVE: Spain 0-0 Netherlands

03:34 , Jamie Braidwood

71 mins: The shots keep coming from Spain - and they keep finding Van Domselaar. The Netherlands will be encouraged by the last 10-15 minute spell.

Women’s World Cup LIVE: Spain 0-0 Netherlands

03:31 , Jamie Braidwood

66 mins: Just before the penalty incident, the Netherlands took off their top goalscorer Jill Rood and replaced with a defender Lynn Wilms, in what is an eye-catching change. That should lead to a formation change from the Netherlands, something clearly wasn’t working, but taking off Roord is a big call.

Meanwhile Spain make their first change as Salma Paralluelo replaces Redondo. Paralluelo had been in the starting line-up throughout the World Cup until today.

Women’s World Cup LIVE: Spain 0-0 Netherlands

03:26 , Jamie Braidwood

63 mins: Suddenly a huge let off for Spain. That would have totally been against the run of play: all it took was one pass through the Spain defence and Beerensteyn got in behind. Parades stepped across and Beerensteyn went to ground. I’m guessing the penalty was overturned because Beerensteyn tried to cut across Parades.

NO PENALTY! Women’s World Cup LIVE: Spain 0-0 Netherlands

03:24 , Jamie Braidwood

63 mins: Frappart overturns her decision! No penalty and no yellow card for Parades. Extraordinary.

Women’s World Cup LIVE: Spain 0-0 Netherlands

03:22 , Jamie Braidwood

PENALTY! Beerensteyn goes through and Parades barges her over! Stephanie Frappart points to the spot!

But this is going to VAR...

Women’s World Cup LIVE: Spain 0-0 Netherlands

03:20 , Jamie Braidwood

57 mins: On the plus side for the Netherlands, they have so far managed to keep Aitana Bonmati fairly quiet. The Spain star is being closely marked by Jackie Groenen, who is following her around the midfield area. Jill Roord is also playing close attention to Teresa Abelleira, but it’s clearly coming at a cost to their attacking play. The Netherlands are yet to have a shot on target.

Click here to read the full blog on The Independent's website