Women’s World Cup 2023 LIVE: Australia and Nigeria through to last-16 as Canada crash out

Women’s World co-hosts Australia cruised into the last-16 thanks to a stunning 4-0 victory over Canada, as the Olympic champions crashed out of the tournament.

Australia needed to win to reach the knockout stages and although they remained without Sam Kerr, the Matildas thrashed a shambolic Canada side to advance as group winners. The result was a disaster for Canada, with Nigeria claiming second place as Ireland earned their first World Cup point thanks to a 0-0 draw.

Elsewhere, Japan executed their game-plan to perfection to thrash Spain 4-0 and finish top of Group C. Japan stunned Spain on the counter-attack in a sublime performance and will play Norway in the last-16.

The Lionesses are also finalising their preparation for Tuesday’s crunch match with China following the brutal loss of Keira Walsh to injury. It has been a World Cup packed with surprises, including Colombia’s shock win over Germany. Follow the latest World Cup scores, updates and news in today’s live blog:

Women’s World Cup LIVE: Latest updates

• Group C - Japan thrashed Spain 4-0 and Zambia defeated Costa Rica

• Group B - Canada thrashed by Australia, Ireland earn first World Cup point with draw against Nigeria

• 90+4’ GOAL! - Catley converts a penalty to put Australia in dreamland (CAN 0-4 AUS)

• 58’ GOAL! - Fowler gets her goal as Australia hammer home their advantage (CAN 0-3 AUS)

• 39’ GOAL! - Raso adds a second after Australia have a goal disallowed (CAN 0-2 AUS)

• 9’ GOAL! - Raso puts Australia ahead in crucial match versus Canada (CAN 0-1 AUS)

• Darts, colouring in and 1,000 bags of Yorkshire tea: Inside the Lionesses’ World Cup den

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

• Why Keira Walsh is irreplaceable for England

• Sam Kerr ‘available’ for Australia’s must-win clash with Canada after calf injury

Women’s World Cup LIVE: Ireland 0-0 Nigeria

13:22 , Mike Jones

Here’s a bit of reaction from Republic of Ireland boss Vera Pauw who spoke to RTE Sport after her team earned their first ever point at the Women’s World Cup.

“Fantastic feeling. They are the 11-time African champions and we had the better play,” said Pauw about the 0-0 draw between Ireland and Nigeria.

“They always looked dangerous but we were in control. We created chances.

“We need to get there [to the opposition goal] to score. We’ve done that so much better. When you see what Nigeria did against Australia, not one time they could do that to us. The game plan worked again. I’m so proud.

“I think we can be really proud. We played three top 10 nations, I think Nigeria are a top-10 nation [despite their 40th-placed ranking], we have played equal games against them.

“Those players came into this tournament as very good players, they go out as world stars. It will change their lives. They will get other contracts and more opportunities.”

Women’s World Cup LIVE: Canada 0-4 Australia

13:19 , Mike Jones

Sam Kerr was confident she could play a part in today’s match for Australia. In the build-up to the game she said: “I feel good. The plan has always been the same, miss the first two games then reassess.

“I’m feeling good, I was out on the pitch today. As good as I can be. I would love to tell you guys everything – but you know being in sport a long time, that that’s a massive thing the opposition wants to know.

“And like Tony [Australia’s head coach] said yesterday it’s going to go down to the wire. I’m definitely going to be available, but how we decide to use that is not to be given to the opposition, I think is the main thing.

“Obviously the plan for me is to be involved and I’m excited. I’ve done everything I can, and no matter what happens I know that I’ve given everything just in the last 10 days, in the last four years, I’ve given everything to be here.”

Kerr was named on the bench for the crunch match against Canada and once it became clear that her services wouldn’t be needed she spent the entire match watching from the sidelines.

Questions remain over her fitness as she tries to recover from a calf injury but for now Australia’s talisman will look ahead to the knockout rounds and prepare herself as best she possibly can.

Women’s World Cup LIVE: Canada 0-4 Australia

13:16 , Mike Jones

Former England midfielder and current BBC pundit Fara Williams spoke on BBC Two after the match and highly praised the Australian performance.

“Australia needed to show up, and they did exactly that,” she said, “They hadn’t yet shown up in the tournament, and left it to the final game under immense pressure.

“Sam Kerr could have been used if needed, but she wasn’t, and she will be grateful for that because she has an extra few days for her recovery. Hopefully we see some of her in the round of 16.

“Tactically, Australia were miles better than Canada today.”

Women’s World Cup LIVE: Canada 0-4 Australia

13:13 , Mike Jones

The crowd is loud.

Australia have made it through to the last-16 at their home tournament and they’ve done it in style with a triumphant victory over Canada.

Cue the celebrations.

Women’s World Cup LIVE: Canada 0-4 Australia

13:10 , Mike Jones

Women’s World Cup LIVE: Canada 0-4 Australia

13:07 , Mike Jones

This blistering win means that Australia finish top of Group B with 6 points. They’re through to the knockout rounds as are Nigeria who end up in second place on five.

Canada, who underperformed throughout the tournament, have to settle for third on four points but there’s a bright spark to finish as the Republic of Ireland secured their first ever World Cup point with a draw against Nigeria today.

Ireland lost two matches by a single goal and impressed on their World Cup debut, they’ll be left wondering what could have been but, alongside Canada, are heading home.

Women’s World Cup LIVE: Canada 0-4 Australia

13:02 , Mike Jones

Full-time!

90+8 mins: Australia have done it in style! They needed to defeat the Olympic champions in this final Group B game in order to ensure that they secured a place in the last-16.

What should have been a close encounter turned out to be anything but. Australia took the lead inside the opening 10 minutes thanks to Hayley Raso and continued to push throughout the first half.

Mary Fowler had a goal disallowed but Raso added a second to open up a cushion of the Matildas. The second half saw them pick up where they left off.

Fowler got herself a goal having poked home a pass from Caitlin Foord before the captain, Steph Catley, put the icing on the cake with a stoppage time penalty.

Women’s World Cup LIVE: GOAL! Canada 0-4 Australia (Catley, 90+4)⚽️

12:57 , Mike Jones

90+4 mins: They’ve saved the best until last. Steph Catley steps up and smokes the spot kick past Kailen Sheridan. The penalty is a good way and is too powerful for the Canadian goalkeeper.

Australia have scored four, it’s their best tally in a match at the World Cup.

Women’s World Cup LIVE: Canada 0-3 Australia

12:56 , Mike Jones

Penalty to Australia!

90+3 mins: Jessie Fleming stands on the boot of Katrina Gorry who eases into the box. Gorry goes to ground and after a VAR check, Australia have the chance to add a fourth goal.

Women’s World Cup LIVE: Canada 0-3 Australia

12:55 , Mike Jones

90+1 mins: It’s all over in the match between Nigeria and Ireland. That Group B encounter ended 0-0 and gives the Republic of Ireland their first ever points at the World Cup.

Nigeria have qualified for the knockout rounds in second place.

Women’s World Cup LIVE: Canada 0-3 Australia

12:54 , Mike Jones

90 mins: Eight minutes of added time to play at the end of the game. Australia want more goals, they’re attacking the box, floating in crosses and looking to increase their lead.

Women’s World Cup LIVE: Canada 0-3 Australia

12:50 , Mike Jones

86 mins: Maybe not. Sam Kerr looks to be taking some strapping off her left leg. Maybe she will get a few minutes. She’s taken her coat off too.

Four minutes plus stoppage time to play in Melbourne.

Women’s World Cup LIVE: Canada 0-3 Australia

12:48 , Mike Jones

82 mins: Clare Polkinghorne replaces Emily van Egmond for Australia. Sam Kerr is well zipped up in her puffer jacked and won’t be coming on today.

Australia will be hoping to get her ready for the knockout rounds.

Women’s World Cup LIVE: Canada 0-3 Australia

12:43 , Mike Jones

79 mins: Clare Hunt took a knock when clearing the ball out of the Australian box and needs a check up from the physios. She’s okay and will carry on.

A goal kick from Mackenize Arnold sees Mary Fowler bring the ball under control. She attacks down the right side, darts into the box and gets a shot away.

Post! Fowler’s effort hits the upright and bounces away as Kailen Sheridan dropped low to turn it wide.

Women’s World Cup LIVE: Canada 0-3 Australia

12:38 , Mike Jones

76 mins: There’s a massive cheer for Hayley Raso as she departs the pitch for Australia. Cortnee Vine comes on to replace her for the Matildas.

Raso’s two goals in the first half gave Australia command of this match and she’s given a big hug from a smiling Sam Kerr who appreciates her efforts.

Women’s World Cup LIVE: Canada 0-3 Australia

12:37 , Mike Jones

73 mins: Canada are running out of ideas, they’re belting the ball long but none of their forward line are able to get in behind the Australian back line.

A diagonal ball forward comes to Caitlin Foord for the hosts. She sweeps down the left and sends a cross into the middle but Canada defend it well.

Women’s World Cup LIVE: Canada 0-3 Australia

12:33 , Mike Jones

70 mins: 20 minutes to play in this match and there’s still no sign of Sam Kerr. The Australian camp let it be known that she was available for this match following her injury but that could have been mind games.

It certainly doesn’t look like she’ll make an appearance now. Not with Australia this dominant.

Women’s World Cup LIVE: Canada 0-3 Australia

12:30 , Mike Jones

67 mins: Deanne Rose nails a low, hard strike towards Australia’s goal but she’s denied by Mackenzie Arnold who sticks out a right leg and deflects the ball clear.

Canada win a corner but don’t do anything with it.

Women’s World Cup LIVE: Canada 0-3 Australia

12:28 , Mike Jones

64 mins: A fifth change for Canada sees Evelyne Viens come on to replace Adriana Leon. This one seems to be a concussion substitution though so the Canadians will have an extra sub should they require it.

It probably won’t make any difference at this point.

Women’s World Cup LIVE: Canada 0-3 Australia

12:24 , Mike Jones

61 mins: That should be that. Canada have been unable to respond to the controlled and pacey play from the hosts. There’s less than half an hour to play and the visitors don’t look likely to get back into this match now.

Australia have done a superb job. They would have been nervous heading into the match but they haven’t shown it. It’s been a wonderful performance from the Matildas who aren’t finished yet.

Women’s World Cup LIVE: GOAL! Canada 0-3 Australia (Fowler, 58’)⚽️

12:22 , Mike Jones

58 mins: Caitlin Foord times her run in behind perfectly as she bombs down the left wing. The ball comes over the top and she brings it down before heading to the penalty area.

She sits down Vanessa Gilles before pulling the ball back to Mary Fowler. Fowler miscues her shot but it hits the inside of the far post and crosses over the line!

Australia are in dreamland now, they’ve surely done enough to reach the knockout rounds.

Women’s World Cup LIVE: Canada 0-2 Australia

12:17 , Mike Jones

54 mins: Close! Australia continue to knock on the door in the hopes of scoring a definitive third goal. Kyra Cooney-Cross has the ball and decides to shoot from range.

Her strike is decent and dips at the last minute meaning Kailen Sheridan has to push the ball over the top of the crossbar to deny her a goal.

Women’s World Cup LIVE: Canada 0-2 Australia

12:15 , Mike Jones

51 mins: Close! It’s almost a hat-trick for Hayley Raso.

Steph Catley gets forward on the left side and nips into space to receive the ball. She pings a cross into the six-yard area from the edge of the box just as Emily van Egmond and Raso both attack the ball.

Raso comes closest at the back post but her lunging effort misses the ball and Canada get it away.

Women’s World Cup LIVE: Canada 0-2 Australia

12:13 , Mike Jones

48 mins: Australia haven’t made any substitutions yet. They’re sticking with the personnel that controlled the first half and are hoping they can get the job done.

So far so good as the latest Canada attack breaks down with Ellie Carpenter shielding a pass in behind out for a goal kick.

Women’s World Cup LIVE: Canada 0-2 Australia

12:11 , Mike Jones

Second half!

Canada get the second half underway. They’ve made a quadruple change at the break with Allysha Chapman, Deanne Rose, Sophie Schimdt and Cloe Lacasse all brought on.

Jayde Riviere, Julia Grosso, Jordyn Huitema and Christine Sinclair have been hooked off.

Women’s World Cup LIVE: Canada 0-2 Australia

12:05 , Mike Jones

How will Canada respond now?

They need to score the next goal. The Canadians were one of the stronger sides before the tournament began and many thought they would get to the back end of the tournament.

They’re 45 minutes away from the earliest exit. Can they get back into the match?

Women’s World Cup LIVE: Canada 0-2 Australia

12:01 , Mike Jones

In the other Group B match of the day, the Republic of Ireland are holding their own against Nigeria. As things stand Australia are going to finish top of the group with Nigeria also going through in second place.

Canada need to mount a comeback or else they’re heading home.

Women’s World Cup LIVE: Canada 0-2 Australia

11:57 , Mike Jones

Two goals for Hayley Raso sees Australia sweep into the lead against Canada. They’ve got 45 minutes to hold out and the co-hosts will be in the last-16.

Women’s World Cup LIVE: Canada 0-2 Australia

11:53 , Mike Jones

Half-time!

45+7 mins: What an exceptional first half for Australia. The Matildas needed to win to keep themselves in the World Cup and they’ve opened up a two-goal lead.

It could have been three as Mary Fowler also had a goal disallowed. Australia boss, Tony Gustavsson, will be over the moon and the longer they keep this lead in tact the less likely it becomes that Sam Kerr needs to feature.

She’s still fighting through a calf injury and will not want to be risked until the knockout games.

Women’s World Cup LIVE: Canada 0-2 Australia

11:49 , Mike Jones

45+3 mins: Australia are trying to close out this game. They’ve got a whole heap of players forward for a corner but the ball is scooped clear by Jordyn Huitema for Canada.

Three Canadians chase down the loose ball only for Australia to recover it and look to string together another attack.

Women’s World Cup LIVE: Canada 0-2 Australia

11:46 , Mike Jones

45 mins: There’s seven minutes of added time to play before the end of the first half. A couple of lengthy VAR calls are behind those stoppages.

Women’s World Cup LIVE: Canada 0-2 Australia

11:43 , Mike Jones

42 mins: This is a healthy lead for Australia now. They’ve looked like the better team and have certainly been sharper in possession than Canada.

The crowd is well behind them and the hosts seem very confident. Another goal would kill off this match and effectively knock Canada out of the World Cup.

Women’s World Cup LIVE: GOAL! Canada 0-2 Australia (Raso, 39’)⚽️

11:41 , Mike Jones

39 mins: No sooner than the second goal was ruled out, Hayley Raso restores Australia’s two-goal cushion. A corner ball is whipped into the box where Kailen Sheridan flaps at the ball.

She scuffs it into Quinn who doesn’t react as the ball hits her and drops to Raso. Raso turns it home from close range and the celebrations begin again!

Women’s World Cup LIVE: Canada 0-1 Australia

11:39 , Mike Jones

37 mins: NO GOAL!

Australia’s second goal is chalked off. This one goes to VAR too and the video assistant referee, having looked at all the angles, decides that Ellie Carpenter was offside in the build-up meaning the goal doesn’t stand.

One tight VAR call has gone Australia’s way, and one tight VAR call has gone against them.

Women’s World Cup LIVE: GOAL! Canada 0-2 Australia (Fowler, 34’)⚽️

11:37 , Mike Jones

34 mins: Canada are in trouble now!

Mary Fowler gives the ball to Caitlin Foord on the edge of the box who flicks it into the box. A poor clearance slips the ball out wide to Hayley Raso who drills a pass into the six-yard box.

Ellie Carpenter, having cut in from the right, is the target but Kailen Sheridan drops low to push the ball away from her.

Fowler is the first to get to the loose ball, she smokes it over the top of the sprawling goalkeeper and gives Australia a cushion in this game.

Women’s World Cup LIVE: Canada 0-1 Australia

11:31 , Mike Jones

30 mins: Jessie Fleming hooks a flat corner ball to the near post where Christine Sinclair flicks it on. Adriana Leon tries to keep it alive near the byline but Ellie Carpenter blocks the cross and Australia manage to clear their lines.

Women’s World Cup LIVE: Canada 0-1 Australia

11:29 , Mike Jones

27 mins: Caitlin Foord drifts out wide for Australia and receives the ball. She gets in behind the Canadian centre-backs before whipping a cross into the six-yard box.

Kailen Sheridan plucks the ball out of the air to avoid any dramas but it’s another sign that Australia can get in behind if they choose to.

Women’s World Cup LIVE: Canada 0-1 Australia

11:25 , Mike Jones

24 mins: Ashley Lawrence sends in a forward pass hoping to pick out Christine Sinclair but it’s an easy clearance for Alanna Kennedy.

Australia send the ball up the pitch where the Canadians recover it. They look to build another attack from the back.

Women’s World Cup LIVE: Canada 0-1 Australia

11:23 , Mike Jones

21 mins: Since the goal, Australia have been less inclined to commit players up the pitch. Canada are seeing more of the ball but they haven’t been able to break through the disciplined defence of the hosts.

Women’s World Cup LIVE: Canada 0-1 Australia

11:20 , Mike Jones

18 mins: Christine Sinclair threads a fine pass across to Adriana Leon. She combines with Jessie Fleming in a one-two to work the ball out to the right before Leon floats a cross into the box.

Clare Hunt brings the ball down and with the help of her centre-half partner scrambles the ball away.

Women’s World Cup LIVE: Canada 0-1 Australia

11:18 , Mike Jones

15 mins: Canada have not lived up to their usual standards at all in this tournament so far and now face an uphill climb to get through to the knockout stages.

They need to score as a draw will get them through.

In the other Group B game taking place right now, Nigeria are pushing for the opener against the Republic of Ireland.

Women’s World Cup LIVE: Canada 0-1 Australia

11:14 , Mike Jones

12 mins: Save! Australia are almost in again!

Steph Catley drives into the box and lays the ball to Hayley Raso who shoots once more. This time her effort isn’t that great and Kailen Sheridan manages to drop to her left and palms the ball away.

Women’s World Cup LIVE: GOAL! Canada 0-1 Australia (Raso, 9’)⚽️

11:12 , Mike Jones

9 mins: Australia lead!

Steph Catley makes a run down the left wing and carries the ball around Kadeisha Buchanan. She squares a pass into the box to Hayley Raso who takes a touch, then drills a lovely strike into the far bottom corner.

The goal is initially ruled out for offside against Catley but a VAR check says she was onside. It’s a tight call but Australia take the lead.

That’s a big moment in this match.

Women’s World Cup LIVE: Canada 0-0 Australia

11:10 , Mike Jones

8 mins: Kyra Cooney-Cross comes over to take the first corner of the game for Australia. She hangs the ball in deep and tries to pick out Alanna Kennedy.

Kennedy can’t control the ball but it gets recycled and almost drops to Steph Catley only for Canada to hook it clear.

Women’s World Cup LIVE: Canada 0-0 Australia

11:08 , Mike Jones

6 mins: Jordyn Huitema does well on the left side of the pitch for Canada. She drives the team forward, shrugs off Ellie Carpenter as the right-back looks to recover the ball, then lifts a decent cross into the middle only to see it cleared away by Alanna Kennedy.

Women’s World Cup LIVE: Canada 0-0 Australia

11:05 , Mike Jones

3 mins: Mary Fowler puts Kadeisha Buchanan under pressure after Caitlin Foord flicks a long ball in behind the Canadian defence. Buchanan holds Fowler off as they tussle to get to the ball first.

The defender pokes it back to the goalkeeper, Kailen Sheridan, who boots it long to clear the danger.

Women’s World Cup LIVE: Canada 0-0 Australia

11:03 , Mike Jones

Kick off!

Australia get the match underway in front of a full house in Melbourne. There’s a nervous atmosphere around the ground as the home fans are desperate for their team to win.

Canada win possession in the middle of the pitch and move it forward quickly. The ball comes up to Christine Sinclair who whips it out wide to Adriana Leon.

Leon puts the first cross into the box but the Aussies clear their lines.

Australia vs Canada

10:55 , Mike Jones

Here come the players.

The two teams make their way out onto the pitch at the Rectangular Stadium in Melbourne. Only a win will guarantee Australia take a place in the last-16, a draw will mean Ireland need to beat Nigeria to send them through while a loss would see the hosts knocked out of the tournament.

The national anthems are played, the stage is set. Group B is about to reach its conclusion. Who will be going through?

Australia vs Canada

10:50 , Mike Jones

The players have gone through their warm-ups in Melbourne with Australia’s Sam Kerr easing through it wearing a puffer jacket. The signs don’t like great for her to play a massive part in this match and the Matildas will be hoping that she isn’t needed today.

They have to beat Canada to get through though and that is going to be a tough, tough ask.

Morocco make history on multiple fronts

10:45 , Mike Jones

Debutants Morocco claimed their first-ever victory at the Women’s World Cup with a 1-0 win over South Korea. Morocco are 55 rungs below South Korea in the women’s rankings but claimed three points thanks to their first World Cup goal from striker Ibtissam Jraidi.

In the sixth minute, Hanane Ait El Haj whipped in a cross from the right and Jraidi dived forward to make contact with a deft glancing header that went in at the far post.

Morocco defender Nouhaila Benzina, who also made history by becoming the first player to wear a headscarf at the Women’s World Cup, made crucial interventions, while she almost scored from a set-piece when she volleyed a snapshot over the bar.

“We are just so pleased our efforts have paid off. This victory is for Morocco and Arabs, it’s the fruit of our hard work,” Jraidi told reporters.

Japan hammer Spain to win Group C

10:40 , Mike Jones

Group C ends in barnstorming fashion. Japan topped the group with a superb record, played three, won three, scored 11, conceded none.

They ended the group stage with a 4-0 battering of Spain but the Spaniards also get through to the knockout stages and will be desperately trying to forget about this one.

Zambia secured a first ever World Cup win which sees them move above Costa Rica, who end up pointless.

Co-hosts miss chance to reach knockout stage as Switzerland and Norway qualify

10:35 , Mike Jones

New Zealand and Switzerland played out an underwhelming 0-0 stalemate, sending the co-hosts out of the tournament on goal difference and the Europeans through to the last 16 as Group A winners.

Norway’s 6-0 thrashing of the Philippines in the other group game in Auckland put them level on four points with New Zealand but second on goal difference.

The results meant New Zealand, who stunned Norway in their opening match before losing to the Philippines in their second, became the first Women’s World Cup hosts to exit in the group stage, with several players in tears at the final whistle.

“I can’t ask any more of the players. There’s a lot of tears out there but they should be so proud,” New Zealand co-captain Ali Riley said. “We fought really hard. There’s such disappointment but I want everyone to be proud of what we’ve achieved.

“I really think that we’ve inspired the country. I hope that little girls across New Zealand and the world now will start playing sport and feel like they can achieve whatever they put their mind to and just dream bigger.”

Sophie Roman Haug scored a hat-trick, winger Caroline Graham Hansen and Guro Reiten also netted and Alicia Barker’s own goal as Norway put a turbulent two weeks behind them and squeaked into the knockout stages on goal difference on Sunday with that 6-0 thrashing of the Philippines.

“We felt it was us against the world today and we performed from the very start, delivering when we really had to,” said Norway coach Hege Riise. “This was the best response we could have given the Norwegian people and ourselves.”

England provide Keira Walsh injury update in Women’s World Cup boost

10:30 , Mike Jones

England’s Keira Walsh did not suffer an anterior cruciate ligament injury against Denmark at the Women’s World Cup and could feature later in the tournament after the Lionesses confirmed the midfielder will remain with the squad.

Walsh was stretchered off in the Lionesses’ 1-0 win against Denmark on Friday and there were fears that the 26-year-old had become the latest star in women’s football to suffer an ACL tear – with England captain Leah Williamson and forward Beth Mead among several star names to be ruled out of the World Cup due to the injury.

The Barcelona midfielder was left on crutches after stretching for the ball and catching her studs on the turf, but a scan yesterday afternoon revealed that the injury was not as bad as it first looked and there was no serious ligament damage.

England provide Keira Walsh injury update in Women’s World Cup boost

Morocco’s Benzina becomes the first senior-level Women’s World Cup player to compete in hijab

10:25 , Mike Jones

Stepping onto the field against South Korea in Morocco’s second Women’s World Cup match, defender Nouhaila Benzina made history as the first player to wear a hijab while competing at a senior-level global tournament.

A FIFA ban on playing in religious head coverings in its sanctioned games for “health and safety reasons” was overturned in 2014 after advocacy from activists, athletes and government and soccer officials.

“I have no doubt that more and more women and Muslim girls will look at Benzina and just really be inspired – not just the players, but I think decision makers, coaches, other sports as well,” said Assmaah Helal, a co-founder of the Muslim Women in Sports Network.

Benzina becomes first senior-level Women’s World Cup player to compete in hijab

Colombia shock Germany

10:20 , Mike Jones

Colombia will celebrate their stunning upset victory over Germany at the Women’s World Cup but have no intention of resting on their laurels, assistant coach Angelo Marsiglia said after the 2-1 win yesterday.

Manuela Vanegas scored a dramatic last-gasp winner to put the South Americans top of Group H and all but secure their progress to the knockout stage of the tournament with an all-time great upset.

“We need to give this win to our whole country,” said Marsiglia. “After the game, we were overcome by emotions. Emotions were running high but we gathered in a circle on the pitch and we said ‘look, let’s enjoy this but keep our feet on the ground’. We will go step by step.”

Marsiglia said both of the team’s goals on Sunday illustrated the technique of the Colombians, not least the sublime 52nd-minute first from teenager Linda Caicedo who jinked between two defenders and curled a sumptuous strike into the far corner. Caicedo, who made her senior team debut at age 14 and was diagnosed with ovarian cancer at 15, collapsed in training on Thursday, raising fears over her health. But Marsiglia said he was confident the 18-year-old would be fit to play Colombia’s final group match against Morocco in Perth on Thursday.

“We know that Linda has had some problems in the past but nothing to be worried about,” he insisted. “She was very tired of course. She had a bit of acceleration in her heart but this wasn’t a problem and she decided to continue and finish the game.”

Australia vs Canada

10:17 , Mike Jones

The two starting XIs give an insight into the state of both squads. Canada have brought in the experienced Christian Sinclair who provided some impteus from the bench in their match against Ireland.

Australia have recalled Mary Fowler who has recovered from a niggle but Sam Kerr is not fully fit as she starts on the bench. Could the Matildas be heading out of the World Cup before Kerr even gets the chance to play?

If Canada start well, that may be so.

Australia vs Canada line-ups

10:13 , Mike Jones

Australia XI: Arnold; Carpenter, Hunt, Kennedy, Catley; Van Egmond, Gorry, Cooney-Cross; Raso, Foord, Fowler

Canada XI: Sheridan; Riviere, Buchanan, Gilles, Lawrence; Quinn, Grosso, Huitema; Fleming, Leon, Sinclair

Australia vs Canada

10:09 , Mike Jones

The co-hosts of this Women’s World Cup are on the verge of an early exit. New Zealand narrowly missed out on a spot in the knockout rounds yesterday as Norway pipped them in Group A due to their superior goal difference.

Today, Australia must beat Canada if they want to ensure a place in the last-16. Nigeria currently top Group B and should have enough quality to get at least a draw against the Republic of Ireland when their clash kicks off at 11am.

That leaves a shootout between Australia and Canada for the second qualifying spot in the group. The Aussies are boosted by the return of the captain Sam Kerr who has recovered from injury and she will no doubt play a huge role if they are to get through the group this morning (UK time).

Women’s World Cup group permutations: How can each team qualify?

10:06 , Karl Matchett

It’s crunch time at the Women’s World Cup with the final round of fixtures in the group stages set to decide who will advance to the knockouts.

It has been a tournament of shocks and surprises so far, with Nigeria stunning Australia and Colombia’s last-gasp win over Germany standing out as the biggest results of the World Cup.

There are set to be more twists and turns as the final matches of the group stages are played out - with the top two teams in each group advancing to the last-16.

With everything to play for across several groups, here’s what each team needs to reach the knockout stages, starting with Group B.

Women’s World Cup group permutations: How can each team qualify?

Women’s World Cup: Full time - Japan 4-0 Spain

10:00 , Karl Matchett

Group C finishes thus:

1. Japan 9pts

2. Spain 6

3. Zambia 3

4. Costa Rica 0

Last-16 ties confirmed:

Switzerland vs Spain (5 August, Aukland)

Japan vs Norway (5 August, Wellington)

Women’s World Cup: Full time - Japan 4-0 Spain

09:55 , Karl Matchett

There’s the whistle and Spain have been put out of their misery. Japan have absolutely thrashed them with a supremely clinical showing.

Full time results in Group C:

Japan 4-0 Spain - Almost a late fifth but a free-kick lands on top of the roof of the net.

Costa Rica 1-3 Zambia - The African nation add a late third through Racheal Kundananji.

Women’s World Cup: Japan 4-0 Spain

09:49 , Karl Matchett

Spain’s biggest defeat in over a decade. The first time they’ve conceded four in over a decade. The second-biggest defeat for a European nation at these finals, behind only Italy’s 5-0 loss to Sweden at the weekend.

A truly humbling occasion for Spain, while Japan are really sounding their intent and capacity here to go deep into the tournament. They haven’t conceded a single goal in the group stage.

Women’s World Cup: GOAL! - Japan 4-0 Spain

09:44 , Karl Matchett

Inside the final ten minutes now.

For all their dominance of the ball, for all their neat approach and for all their intent in deeper areas, Spain have managed a measly one shot on target today. Simply nowhere near enough cutting edge to break down a brilliantly organised Japan side, whose gameplan has been absolutely perfect.

And....it’s FOUR! Tanaka just runs and runs and runs and keeps going, before cutting in and bending a left-footer into the top corner!

What a goal, 4-0 to Japan.

Women’s World Cup: Japan 3-0 Spain

09:38 , Karl Matchett

Looking a little further ahead to what this result - assuming no dramatic late comeback - will do for the knockout stage, Spain as we mentioned will now (almost surely!) face Switzerland.

The winners of that fixture are on a collision course with USA in the quarters, if they do the business and beat Portugal in their own final group fixture. If they don’t, it will most likely be Netherlands - another tough assignment.

For Japan, a last-16 tie with Norway must be navigated before facing the winners of G or second in E: currently Sweden and Netherlands respectively.

Women’s World Cup: Japan 3-0 Spain

09:29 , Karl Matchett

We’re welll into the final half-hour and no sign at all of Spain mounting a comeback. Japan have made a handful of subs to keep themselves fresh and preserve a few legs, but despite Spain’s 67% possession it’s the Asian nation who have looked far more impressive today.

Costa Rica thought they had an equaliser against Zambia but it has been ruled out.

Women’s World Cup: Japan 3-0 Spain

09:20 , Karl Matchett

Spain still sticking to their plan, passing and playing and looking for spaces between the defence - of which there are very few.

Yamashita is looking dominant with aerial claims and takes another cross comfortably now - at the moment it’s very much looking as though Spain will be playing Switzerland and Japan will play Norway in the last 16.

Women’s World Cup: Japan 3-0 Spain

09:12 , Karl Matchett

Back underway in both games.

Costa Rica have quickly pulled one back against Zambia, so it’s 2-1 there. Both those sides scoring their first goals of the competition today.

Japan very quickly back on the front foot when counter chances arise.

Women’s World Cup: Half time - Japan 3-0 Spain

08:52 , Karl Matchett

An unexpected scoreline but by no means an undeserved one.

Japan lead Spain 3-0 after an absolute exhibition in counter-attacking play. In the other game in this group it’s Zambia 2-0 Costa Rica at the break.

As it stands in Group C:

1. Japan 9pts

2. Spain 6pts

3. Zambia 3pts

4. Costa Rica 0pts

Women’s World Cup: GOAL! - Japan 3-0 Spain

08:43 , Karl Matchett

Zambia are two goals to the good against Costa Rica too - Barbra Banda has rolled home a penalty, low to the left.

And Japan have scored again!!

This is incredible - absolutely textbook counter for the third time, straight through the spaces Spain are leaving and with three chances in three on target and 3-0!

Hinata Miyazawa with her second, racing through and firing a strike across goal into the far corner. Magnificent.

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

08:31 , Karl Matchett

Absolutely picturebook perfect! Another lethal counter-attack and Japan have a second goal.

Slightly more fortune in the end but the driving run forward initially by Miyazawa was exceptional, she then frees Ueki on the left side of the box and her cut-in-and-finish is deflected by Paredes, up and over goalkeeper Misa Rodriguez and into the net for 2-0 just before the half-hour mark!

Japan 1-0 Spain

08:20 , Karl Matchett

The match following a pattern so far: Spain with all the ball, not quite making the headway they want into the penalty box and then Japan looking to spring forward in numbers.

They do look a threat on the break and of course have the lead - a strike from range from Paralluelo perhaps suggests the Europeans are just getting a little frustrated.

GOAL! Japan 1-0 Spain

08:15 , Karl Matchett

The Asian nation are ahead! On the break and straight through the middle, 12 minutes on the clock.

Endo plays a brilliant ball around the corner and Hinata Miyazawa shows extraordinary composure to take the first touch out of her feet and then slide a side-footed finish into the bottom corner.

Japan ahead and top of the group!

Women’s World Cup live

08:08 , Karl Matchett

Underway in Wellington and Hamilton.

Spain dominant in possession in the opening stages but the first real opening for Hermoso just escapes her - a crossfield pass to the far post which she can’t quite reach.

Goal early on in the other game - Zambia lead Costa Rica after just a few minutes, Lushomo Mweemba on the scoresheet. They are up to third as it stands.

Women’s World Cup live

07:57 , Karl Matchett

Just a few minutes to kick-off in the opening matches and the big focus will be on Spain, who remain one of the favourites.

The winners of Group C face Norway, with the runners-up heading to Auckland to play Switzerland. They progressed from Group A, remember, with co-hosts New Zealand knocked out yesterday.

Japan vs Spain lineups

07:52 , Karl Matchett

Japan XI: Yamashita, Shimizu, Minami, Kumagai, Miyazawa, Naomoto, Ueki, Nagano, Takahashi, Endo, Hayashi

Spain XI: Rodriguez, Battle, Paredes, Galvez, Carmona, Abelleira, Bonmati, Putellas, Paralluelo, Hermoso, Caldentey

Women’s World Cup: Group B and Group C

07:46 , Karl Matchett

Let’s go in chronological order by kick-offs - which means Group C first.

It’s also the most simple, which at this time in the morning is definitely the best way to start. Spain face Japan but both teams are already qualified for the knockouts, having won their opening two fixtures each. This, then, is a fight for top spot. Costa Rica and Zambia are both looking for their first points, but their campaigns are effectively over.

Then it’s Group B later on, and that’s more open.

Ireland are bottom and already out, but they can prevent group leaders Nigeria progressing if they win and Australia, the hosts, beat Canada.

Australia do need some sort of result though, given they are only on three points with Canada and Nigeria both on four.

We’ll naturally keep it live with the permutations once those 11am fixtures get underway.

Every Women’s World Cup game today

07:40 , Karl Matchett

Morning all - it’s quite a big day of action as we plough further into the final group stage games. That means four matches across each of the next three days, with the following from Groups C and then B today:

8am (BST): Japan vs Spain and Costa Rica vs Zambia

11am (BST): Canada vs Australia and Republic of Ireland vs Nigeria

Full group details coming up...

England veteran Rachel Daly concerned by ACL issue at Women’s World Cup

07:30 , Karl Matchett

England veteran Rachel Daly revealed she blocks out the frightening possibility of becoming a victim of the devastating injury crisis besetting women’s football and the World Cup.

Midfielder Keira Walsh was stretchered off with a suspected knee injury in the first half of the Lionesses’ 1-0 group-stage victory over Denmark on Friday, later appearing on crutches and sparking concern she might join England’s Beth Mead and Leah Williamson on a long list of players ruled out of the 2023 tournament with the same anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injury that disproportionately affects women.

There was no update on Walsh’s condition as of Saturday night in Sydney, three days before the Lionesses play China in Adelaide with a target of escaping Group D in top spot.

Daly said: “I don’t think you can think about it, for me, those three letters scare the absolute you-know-what out of me.”

More here:

England veteran Rachel Daly concerned by ACL issue at Women’s World Cup

Sam Kerr ‘available’ for Australia’s must-win clash with Canada after calf injury

07:20 , Jack Rathborn

Australia captain Sam Kerr confirmed she will be available for the Matildas’ final group stage encounter with Canada after missing their first two Women’s World Cup matches with a calf injury.

The Matildas’ chances of progressing from Group B hang in the balance after Thursday’s surprise 3-2 defeat to Nigeria in Brisbane, and only victory over the Olympic champions on Monday will see Tony Gustavsson’s side qualify for the last 16, barring a draw scenario that will still rely on the Republic of Ireland beating Nigeria.

Kerr, her country’s top goal-scorer of either gender, is not just Australia’s strongest weapon – she is more symbolically the poster-woman for this tournament both in her native country and, arguably, around the world.

The Chelsea striker would not confirm if the encouraging update would mean the home support would see her start in Melbourne, telling a press conference: “I feel good. The plan has always been the same, miss the first two games then reassess.

Sam Kerr ‘available’ for Australia’s must-win clash with Canada after calf injury

Why Keira Walsh is irreplaceable for England

07:00 , Jack Rathborn

“I’ve done my knee.”

Keira Walsh knew it immediately, and then came the words to devastate the Lionesses and England’s chances of winning the World Cup as well. That’s how significant a blow losing Walsh is for any amount of time, let alone the tournament and potentially beyond. If England had one irreplaceable player, it would be Walsh. If Sarina Wiegman could have chosen any star to protect for the rest of the World Cup, it would have been their holding midfielder and pass master.

The Lionesses now face a terrible wait to discover the extent of Walsh’s injury. It overshadowed England’s win over Denmark, and threatens to hang over the rest of their tournament in Australia. After losing Leah Williamson and Beth Mead to ACL injuries, it looks like England have suffered another, a cruel twist that came after Wiegman made two changes to her team and the Lionesses, for the first time this World Cup, looked to have clicked into gear.

Why Keira Walsh is irreplaceable for England

Morocco’s Benzina becomes the first senior-level Women’s World Cup player to compete in hijab

06:30 , Jack Rathborn

Stepping onto the field against South Korea in Morocco’s second Women’s World Cup match, defender Nouhaila Benzina made history as the first player to wear a hijab while competing at a senior-level global tournament.

A FIFA ban on playing in religious head coverings in its sanctioned games for “health and safety reasons” was overturned in 2014 after advocacy from activists, athletes and government and soccer officials.

“I have no doubt that more and more women and Muslim girls will look at Benzina and just really be inspired – not just the players, but I think decision makers, coaches, other sports as well,” said Assmaah Helal, a co-founder of the Muslim Women in Sports Network.

Benzina becomes first senior-level Women’s World Cup player to compete in hijab

Women’s World Cup 2023: Brilliant Colombia cause huge shock with Germany win and co-hosts crash out

Sunday 30 July 2023 20:19 , Jack Rathborn

Colombia will celebrate their stunning upset victory over Germany at the Women’s World Cup but have no intention of resting on their laurels, assistant coach Angelo Marsiglia said after the 2-1 win.

Manuela Vanegas scored a dramatic last-gasp winner to put the South Americans top of Group H and all but secure their progress to the knockout stage of the tournament with an all-time great upset.

“We need to give this win to our whole country,” said Marsiglia. “After the game, we were overcome by emotions. Emotions were running high but we gathered in a circle on the pitch and we said ‘look, let’s enjoy this but keep our feet on the ground’. We will go step by step.”

Women’s World Cup 2023: Brilliant Colombia cause huge shock and co-hosts crash out

England provide Keira Walsh injury update in Women’s World Cup boost

Sunday 30 July 2023 20:25 , Jack Rathborn

England’s Keira Walsh did not suffer an anterior cruciate ligament injury against Denmark at the Women’s World Cup and could feature later in the tournament after the Lionesses confirmed the midfielder will remain with the squad.

Walsh was stretchered off in the Lionesses’ 1-0 win against Denmark on Friday and there were fears that the 26-year-old had become the latest star in women’s football to suffer an ACL tear – with England captain Leah Williamson and forward Beth Mead among several star names to be ruled out of the World Cup due to the injury.

The Barcelona midfielder was left on crutches after stretching for the ball and catching her studs on the turf, but a scan yesterday afternoon revealed that the injury was not as bad as it first looked and there was no serious ligament damage.

England provide Keira Walsh injury update in Women’s World Cup boost