Women’s World Cup 2023 LIVE: Result and reaction after Jamaica advance to stun Brazil
Brazil and Italy crashed out of the Women’s World Cup after a series of pulsating final group-stage games which saw both Jamaica and South Africa advance to the last 16 for the first time.
Brazil, needing to win against Jamaica to finish second in Group F, could only manage a 0-0 draw with the result sending the Reggae Girlz through to the World Cup knockout stages in second place.
South Africa, meanwhile, came from behind against Italy with an injury-time winner from Thembi Kgatlana securing a famous 3-2 win to knock their European opponents out of the World Cup.
Elsewhere, Sweden progressed top in Group G after beating Argentina 2-0 while France ran out comfortable winners against Panama with their 6-3 victory sending them through as the winners of Group F.
On Tuesday, Lauren James shone again on with two stunning goals as England put in their best performance of the Women’s World Cup so far to sweep aside China 6-1 and march into the last 16.
USA only just managed to sneak through with a draw against Portugal, leading to criticism from former stars. Follow all the latest news and match updates below:
World Cup LIVE: JAMAICA VS BRAZIL AND PANAMA VS FRANCE
Jamaica knock out Brazil after 0-0 draw to reach last 16 for the first time
France come from behind to comprehensively beat Panama and top Group F
Injury-time winner sees South Africa shock Italy and win 3-2 to reach knockout stages
Sweeden cruise past Argentina to win 2-0 and set up last-16 clash with the USA
Lionesses thrash China to secure top spot
Women’s World Cup latest - USA’s narrow escape spells the end of Women’s World Cup dominance
Wednesday 2 August 2023 15:00 , Ben Fleming
Tuesday may have been a positive one for England but it was a vastly different day for the USA who narrowly avoided a group-stage exit after a 0-0 draw with Portugal
Ana Capeta, brought on in stoppage time, came within the width of a post from sending the two-time defending champions crashing out of the tournament.
If that’s how close the USA came to a first World Cup defeat since 2015, it’s a clear indication of how fragile their dominance appears to be. After only scraping through Group E as runners-up and with Sweden, who thrashed the USA at the Olympics two years ago, likely to be next in the last-16, there is little confidence that this is the same side who entered the tournament as favourites.
Read more below:
USA’s narrow escape spells the end of Women’s World Cup dominance
Women’s World Cup latest - England’s attack goes from tired to inspired
Wednesday 2 August 2023 14:45 , Ben Fleming
It is far too easy to fall into the trap of viewing this England team through rose-tinted glasses: this is a team who win games and have fun while doing so. After all, the Lionesses are the team who scored 20 against Latvia; the team who danced past Luxembourg and North Macedonia as they found a way to double figures; the team who made a mockery of any suggestion Norway were a top team with their 8-0 victory at the Euros.
In recent months that hasn’t been the case — two wingers would charge up the flanks and cross towards Alessia Russo, if couldn’t can’t find a cross then they’d try and cut inside. Rinse and repeat. It hadn’t taken much of late for teams to sit back and stifle England – the code had been cracked and the attack was neutered.
It’s a good job, then, that Sarina Wiegman has stumbled across a way forward.
Read more below:
England’s attack goes from tired to inspired as new-look front three devastates China
Women’s World Cup latest - England’s formation change works a treat
Wednesday 2 August 2023 14:30 , Ben Fleming
Rip it up and start again: if Keira Walsh’s injury spelled the end of something at the Women’s World Cup, it only did for England’s starting formation. Against China, Sarina Wiegman made her most dramatic change as Lionesses manager yet, switching to a 3-5-2 system to counter the blow of losing their key midfielder. In doing so, Wiegman created something new, unlocking England’s best performance in months.
The Lionesses looked like themselves again, and while England’s 6-1 win against China made sure of their progress to the last-16 as Group D winners, as much focus will be on how Wiegman has recalibrated and recharged her side ahead of the knockout stages. After two 1-0 wins over Haiti and Denmark there was an element of danger coming into the decider, but from the opening moments, the tempo and fluidity of England’s performance erased any doubts.
Read more from Jamie Braidwood below:
Sarina Wiegman’s brave England switch solves key Women’s World Cup problem
Women’s World Cup latest
Wednesday 2 August 2023 14:15 , Ben Fleming
With today’s action done, let’s take a look back on yesterday’s action. And what a great day it was for England who convincingly beat China 6-1 courtesy of two goals from rising superstar, Lauren James.
Much like Lauren James’s divine second goal, this might be dropping beautifully for England. Certainly, Sarina Wiegman suddenly has clarity in a World Cup characterised by uncertainty and unpredictability. James’s very role illustrates that. The young winger’s influence from that wide role was a driving force in this crushing 6-1 win over China that confirmed an expected first place.
It is a first place, however, that suddenly looks very different. The path to the semi-finals, at least, is something else that’s so much clearer.
Read more from Miguel Delaney below:
Lauren James takes over World Cup — but England must learn from rivals
Women’s World Cup latest - LIVE
Wednesday 2 August 2023 14:05 , Ben Fleming
What does each team need to qualify?
- South Korea can only go through with a win against Germany, combined with Morocco losing to Colombia.
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Wednesday 2 August 2023 14:00 , Ben Fleming
What does each team need to qualify?
Morocco
- Morocco will go through if they win and Germany fail to beat South Korea.
- Morocco would only go through with a draw if Germany lose to South Korea.
- Due to goal difference, Morocco cannot go through with a defeat.
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Wednesday 2 August 2023 13:55 , Ben Fleming
What does each team need to qualify?
Germany
- Germany will go through with a win, regardless of the result in the Colombia vs Morocco game.
- If Germany draw, they would go through in second place as long as Morocco fail to win against Colombia.
- If Germany lose and Morocco win or draw against Colombia, they would be out. Germany could lose and go through, but they would need to Colombia to beat Morocco and South Korea to win by no more than five goals.
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Wednesday 2 August 2023 13:50 , Ben Fleming
What does each team need to qualify?
Colombia
- Due to Morocco’s goal difference, Colombia would need to lose by at least four goals to be in danger of missing out on the last-16. A win or draw would confirm their place as group winners.
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Wednesday 2 August 2023 13:42 , Ben Fleming
With those pulsating fixtures done with, we’ve got the final round of group-stage matches to look forward to tomorrow. A reminder of the fixtures and how things stand in that group:
1. Colombia - 6 points (+3 goal difference)
2. Germany - 3 points (+5)
3. Morocco - 3 points (-5)
4. South Korea - 0 points (-3)
Final group fixtures:
South Korea vs Germany (11am BST)
Morocco vs Colombia (11am BST)
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Wednesday 2 August 2023 13:28 , Ben Fleming
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Wednesday 2 August 2023 13:20 , Ben Fleming
With France and Jamaica advancing they will take on the winner and runner-up from Group H who play tomorrow.
As things stand, that would see Jamaica face off against Colombia and a huge clash between France and Germany.
But if today has taught us anything, it’s that nothing in this World Cup is ever predictable.
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Wednesday 2 August 2023 13:14 , Ben Fleming
Jamaica’s manager, Lorne Donaldson speaks to ITV Sport after his side’s victory:
“To see these girls do this is unbelievable, while I'm alive and standing, I thank the girls, we do this for the country. The country should be proud. The resilience, the fight, it's a war, we have to be ready. It was a war, we stayed in battle, we fought the war.
“We have more work to do, but we'll enjoy tonight.”
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Wednesday 2 August 2023 13:12 , Ben Fleming
With those results, here’s a look at the final standings in Group F:
France 7pts
Jamaica 5pts
Brazil 4pts
Panama 0pts
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Wednesday 2 August 2023 13:09 , Ben Fleming
FULL-TIME! And there we have it in the other game as the referee calls time on a highly entertaining match between Panama and France. France top the group, advancing through to the last 16 after a 6-3 win.
In the end, the European heavyweights had too much quality for Panama but what a spirited performance from the central American underdogs who will have plenty of moments to cherish having scored their first three goals at a Women’s World Cup.
Jamaica 0-0 Brazil (FT)
Panama 3-6 France (FT)
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Wednesday 2 August 2023 13:03 , Ben Fleming
GOAL! Brazil’s only hope of a miracle escape was if Panama could come back from 5-3 down in injury time to win against France.
That small hope is gone now as Vicki Becho nets in the tenth minute of stoppage time for France who now take a 6-3 lead.
Jamaica 0-0 Brazil (FT)
Panama 3-6 France
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Wednesday 2 August 2023 13:01 , Ben Fleming
It’s contrasting scenes at full-time as the Jamaican players and staff celebrate widly after a monumental achievement.
Brazil, meanwhile, have been stunned into silence. The South American’s tournament comes to an abrupt end as they finish third in Group F.
And what about Marta? The legendary striker came off after 80 minutes but her sixth and final World Cup will not have a fairytale ending.
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Wednesday 2 August 2023 12:55 , Ben Fleming
AND THAT’S IT! The full-time whistle goes and Jamaica have done it! They hold on for a famous 0-0 draw and the Reggae Girlz, who had to fund their own way to the tournament, have knocked Brazil out of the World Cup!
It wasn’t pretty at times but what a dogged display of discipline from Jamaica who advance to the round of 16 for the first time in their history!
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Wednesday 2 August 2023 12:54 , Ben Fleming
Solai Washington’s shot is blocked for Jamaica as Brazil go up the other end and win a corner. The ball drops in the middle of the box and a goalmouth scramble ensures. Eventually it’s Andressa who gets a head on goal but it’s claimed by Spencer with just under a minute go.
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Wednesday 2 August 2023 12:52 , Ben Fleming
GOAL! Another one back for Panama who celebrate wildly again. A performance to be proud of for the underdogs as Cedeño rises highest from a free-kick to head home.
Panama 3-5 France
As things stand:
France 7pts
Jamaica 5pts
Brazil 4pts
Panama 0pts
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Wednesday 2 August 2023 12:50 , Ben Fleming
A free-kick on the right edge of the box for Brazil as Andressa stands over the ball. It’s guided over the wall but not with enough power and Spencer moves well to her left to take a comfortable save.
Four minutes of added time to play...
Jamaica 0-0 Brazil
Panama 2-5 France
As things stand:
France 7pts
Jamaica 5pts
Brazil 4pts
Panama 0pts
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Wednesday 2 August 2023 12:46 , Ben Fleming
Debinha bursts down the left-hand side once again but her outside-of-the-boot cross into the box, looking for Zaneratto, flies straight into the hands of Spencer at the near post.
Jamaica 0-0 Brazil
Panama 2-5 France
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Wednesday 2 August 2023 12:42 , Ben Fleming
CHANCE! A real chance for Shaw as the Man City forward latches onto the ball and bears down on goal. She uses her strength well to create an opportunity on goal but with can only fire just over the bar from the edge of the box.
Straight up the other end, Ferreira has a chance on the left side of the box but slices her chance well wide of the goal.
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Wednesday 2 August 2023 12:40 , Ben Fleming
And with ten minutes to go, Brazil make a change which sees the legendary Marta make way. It’s her sixth and last World Cup but it could be ending in disappointing fashion unless her Brazil team-mates can find a winner.
Jamaica 0-0 Brazil
Panama 2-5 France
As things stand:
France 7pts
Jamaica 5pts
Brazil 4pts
Panama 0pts
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Wednesday 2 August 2023 12:39 , Ben Fleming
Jamaica have done an even better job of restricting Brazil in this half with the South Americans managing just three shots since the break with none on target.
There’s a heart-in-mouth moment, though, for Jamaica as Allyson Swaby slices a cross towards her own goal but the centre-back is bailed out by her keeper, Spencer, who comes off her line well to claim the dropping ball.
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Wednesday 2 August 2023 12:32 , Ben Fleming
Another corner for Brazil is taken by Debinha. Again Jamaica clear, though, as they continue to hold on. No real intent going forward for the Reggae Girlz but they won’t care one bit if they can see out these final 20 or so minutes.
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Wednesday 2 August 2023 12:30 , Ben Fleming
That goal in the Panama-France game doesn’t change the picture all too much in the other game. France should still cruise through to the last-16 as they still lead 5-2 and it means that, with 20 minutes left, Brazil still need to find a goal or face elimination.
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Wednesday 2 August 2023 12:28 , Ben Fleming
GOAL! It might not matter to the overall result but there are more great scenes as Panama get their second of the game from the spot. Elisa de Almeida concedes the penalty after a foul on Riley Tanner and Yomira Pinzon steps up to take it.
She’s a bit eager at first, and takes the penalty before everyone is ready but composes herself well to score again when the penalty is retaken!
Jamaica 0-0 Brazil
Panama 2-5 France
As things stand:
France 7pts
Jamaica 5pts
Brazil 4pts
Panama 0pts
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Wednesday 2 August 2023 12:22 , Ben Fleming
For what they have lacked going forward, Jamaica have been well-organised and resolute at the back. Adriana can’t find space for a cross from the right and, in the end, the ball is laid back to Luana on the edge of the box with the midfielder scuffing her effort into a crowd of players inside the box.
Jamaica 0-0 Brazil
Panama 1-5 France
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Wednesday 2 August 2023 12:18 , Ben Fleming
Some more concern for Jamaica as Shaw is down for the second time this game. It’s a groin issue this time but once again, the Man City striker is back up on her feet and looks to soldier on.
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Wednesday 2 August 2023 12:17 , Ben Fleming
Plenty more positive spells of possession for Brazil but they remain unable to create enough space for a clear-cut opportunity. Zaneratto again has space on the right but her cut-back into the box goes behind the onrushing Marta and Jamaica can clear.
Jamaica 0-0 Brazil
Panama 1-5 France
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Wednesday 2 August 2023 12:15 , Ben Fleming
GOAL! France ease further clear and it’s a World Cup hat-trick for Diani. Natis concedes another penalty after her second handball inside the box with the French striker stepping up and firing into the bottom left corner.
Three girls for her and five for France now. A convincing display.
Jamaica 0-0 Brazil
Panama 1-5 France
As things stand:
France 7pts
Jamaica 5pts
Brazil 4pts
Panama 0pts
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Wednesday 2 August 2023 12:10 , Ben Fleming
A promising burst from Shaw down the right, who does well to keep the ball under pressure from Kathellen. She’s forced wide but fires in a good low cross into the box but she’s lacking in support and it’s gathered easily by Brazil.
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Wednesday 2 August 2023 12:07 , Ben Fleming
And we are now underway in the second half. A change each for Jamaica and Brazil. The Reggae Girlz bring off Williams for Cameron while Borges comes off at half-time for Brazil, with Bia Zaneratto introduced to the action.
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Wednesday 2 August 2023 12:05 , Ben Fleming
With the second half coming up, here’s a reminder of what both Jamaica and Brazil need to do to qualify for the last 16:
- Jamaica will qualify from Group F as long as they avoid defeat to Brazil and a win or draw would confirm their place in the last-16. They could still go through if they lose, but they would need France to lose to Panama by a bigger margin than their defeat to Brazil.
- Brazil will reach the last-16 if they beat Jamaica in Melbourne and a draw would only be enough if France lose to Panama. Brazil will top Group F if they lose and France fail to win. Brazil cannot go through with a defeat.
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Wednesday 2 August 2023 11:57 , Ben Fleming
The first half may not have panned out exactly how Panama would have hoped. Having lost their first two games, they already had no chances of progressing but what a moment to remember for captain Marta Cox, who opened the scoring in quite superb fashion:
Marta Cox, take a BOW!
That is simply stunning from the Panama midfielder 🚀 pic.twitter.com/zwhPe1XVSs— ITV Football (@itvfootball) August 2, 2023
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Wednesday 2 August 2023 11:54 , Ben Fleming
HALF-TIME! It’s half-time between Jamaica and Brazil and it remains goalless in this crunch group-stage fixture. Brazil need to win and have been the side that look more likely to go ahead, with Spencer called into action on numerous occasions in the first half.
In the other game, Panama took a shock lead through Cox’s thunderous long-range free-kick but it’s one-way traffic since then. Lakrar’s header drew France level shortly after before Diani’s brace moved Herve Renard’s side ahead. And just before the break, they found a fourth when Le Garrec’s cross, swung in from the left, bounced over everybody - including the keeper - and into the far corner. They lead 4-1 and are well on their way to the last 16.
Jamaica 0-0 Brazil
Panama 1-4 France
As things stand:
France 7pts
Jamaica 5pts
Brazil 4pts
Panama 0pts
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Wednesday 2 August 2023 11:45 , Ben Fleming
A bit more variety from Brazil, who go long this time into Marta. The striker does well to stretch to reach the cross but the ball is behind her when she heads it on goal, and it’s a comfortable save for Spencer in the Jamaica net.
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Wednesday 2 August 2023 11:41 , Ben Fleming
More sustained pressure from Brazil as they press for the opening goal against Jamaica. Left-back Tamires finds some space on the left side of the box but Spencer is equal to it, making a smart save down at the near post.
Jamaica 0-0 Brazil
Panama 1-3 France
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Wednesday 2 August 2023 11:39 , Ben Fleming
GOAL! It’s all-too easy for France now as they move 3-1 ahead from the penalty spot. It’s a handball inside the box from Natis with Diani stepping up and converting for her second of the game.
After that early wobble, France are cruising through to the knockout stages.
Jamaica 0-0 Brazil
Panama 1-3 France
As things stand:
France 7pts
Jamaica 5pts
Brazil 4pts
Panama 0pts
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Wednesday 2 August 2023 11:34 , Ben Fleming
Jamaica are yet to fashion a shot of any kind with more than 30 minutes gone in this match so far. Brazil, meanwhile, have had eight shots (five on target) and 77% possession. No breakthrough as of yet for the South Americans, though.
Jamaica 0-0 Brazil
Panama 1-2 France
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Wednesday 2 August 2023 11:31 , Ben Fleming
GOAL! What a turnaround for France who have deservedly come from behind to now lead 2-1 against Panama. It’s great work from Becho down the right who finds Diani inside the six-yard box. The striker has a couple of swipes at it before managing to create some space away from the keeper and looping the ball in off the bar.
You can’t say it’s not deserved for France who now move onto seven points and on course for the last 16.
Jamaica 0-0 Brazil
Panama 1-2 France
As things stand:
France 7pts
Jamaica 5pts
Brazil 4pts
Panama 0pts
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Wednesday 2 August 2023 11:26 , Ben Fleming
CHANCE! With that France goal, Brazil have to win to progress and right on cue, they generate their best chance of the game. It’s Borges who arrives late in the box to meet a header but she can’t direct it on target as it whistles past the post.
Jamaica 0-0 Brazil
Panama 1-1 France
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Wednesday 2 August 2023 11:24 , Ben Fleming
And France do have an equaliser now! A nightmare for Panama as Lakrar’s header from Mateo’s cross appears to be heading towards the goalkeeper before Pinzon takes a swipe at the ball, sending it over Bailey and into the roof of the Panama net.
With that equaliser, France move back to the top of the group as things stand.
Jamaica 0-0 Brazil
Panama 1-1 France
As things stand:
France 5pts
Jamaica 5pts
Brazil 4pts
Panama 1pt
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Wednesday 2 August 2023 11:20 , Ben Fleming
A slight pause in play between Jamaica and Brazil as Shaw is down, grimacing after hurting her foot. Thankfully for the Jamaican fans in attendance, the forward is back up and looks alright to continue.
Since going behind, France have had seven shots already inside twenty minutes against Panama. None on target, though, and they still trail.
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Wednesday 2 August 2023 11:14 , Ben Fleming
Another half chance falls the way of Marta inside the Jamaican penalty box, but Sampson does well to make the vital block.
In the other game, it’s wave after wave of French attacks as they go in search of an immediate response. Nothing forthcoming so far, however.
Jamaica 0-0 Brazil
Panama 1-0 France
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Wednesday 2 August 2023 11:10 , Ben Fleming
Well, if the scores remain as they are then both Jamaica and Brazil would go through. Not much in the way of early chances between these two sides, with Marta’s effort saved comfortably by Spencer in the Jamaica goal.
Jamaica 0-0 Brazil
Panama 1-0 France
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Wednesday 2 August 2023 11:04 , Ben Fleming
WHAT A SCREAMER! Well, what a start to the other game in Group F and the ramifications could be big for France. An absolute thunderbolt of a free-kick from Panama’s captain Marta Cox opens the scoring inside two minutes and France are behind.
Panama can’t qualify but France need to avoid defeat to ensure they go through. An early twist in the tale!
Jamaica 0-0 Brazil
Panama 1-0 France
As things stand:
Jamaica 5pts
Brazil 4pts
France 4pts
Panama 3pts
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Wednesday 2 August 2023 11:02 , Ben Fleming
And we are off in both games! Jamacia in the customary yellow and green, Brazil in the blue and white.
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Wednesday 2 August 2023 10:57 , Ben Fleming
The key game here is Jamaica’s clash with Brazil who will both see big names return to the forward line. For the Reggae Girlz, Khadja Shaw, who scored 31 goals for Manchester City last season, is back after a sending off against France.
For Brazil, Marta comes in to start for her first game of the tournament with the legendary 37-year-old making an appearance in her sixth and last World Cup.
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Wednesday 2 August 2023 10:52 , Ben Fleming
What does each team need to qualify?
- Brazil will reach the last-16 if they beat Jamaica in Melbourne and a draw would only be enough if France lose to Panama. Brazil will top Group F if they lose and France fail to win. Brazil cannot go through with a defeat.
What does each team need to qualify?
Wednesday 2 August 2023 10:48 , Ben Fleming
What does each team need to qualify?
- Jamaica will qualify from Group F as long as they avoid defeat to Brazil and a win or draw would confirm their place in the last-16. They could still go through if they lose, but they would need France to lose to Panama by a bigger margin than their defeat to Brazil.
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Wednesday 2 August 2023 10:44 , Ben Fleming
What does each team need to qualify?
- France will reach the last-16 with a win or draw against Panama. If France win and Jamaica fail to win, they are guaranteed top spot, but if France and Jamaica both win, they will only finish first with a better goal difference (with France currently ahead on goals scored).
- France could still lose and go through, but they would need Jamaica to beat Brazil, or for Jamaica to lose heavily. A France defeat would mean Brazil and Jamaica would go through with a draw.
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Wednesday 2 August 2023 10:40 , Ben Fleming
There’s no rest in the World Cup and we are straight onto the final group-stages matches for Group F.
At 11am (BST), we have France vs Panama and Jamaica vs Brazil. Other than Panama, who lost both opening games, it is all to play for.
A reminder of the current standings:
France 4pts
Jamaica 4pts
Brazil 3pts
Panama 0pts
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Wednesday 2 August 2023 10:32 , Ben Fleming
After that win for South Africa, a round-of-16 contest against the Netherlands awaits. It will be quite some task for the Banyana Banyana but after how they played tonight, you would be a fool to put anything past them.
Here’s another look at that injury-time winner from Kgatlana:
SOUTH AFRICAAAAAA! 🤯
They're in second place in Group G!
A late goal that could make history!#FIFAWWC #RSA pic.twitter.com/laeegpz5vk— BBC Sport (@BBCSport) August 2, 2023
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Wednesday 2 August 2023 10:25 , Ben Fleming
Our focus drifted away from Sweeden towards the end, but it was another impressive performance from the European nation. A comfortable 2-0 win means they have a perfect record and have conceded just one goal in three games.
Unfortunately for them, USA’s draw with Portugal yesterday means they must face the defending champions in the round of 16. However, with how impressive they have been so far, the Swedes will no doubt fancy their chances against an out-of-sorts USA side.
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Wednesday 2 August 2023 10:16 , Ben Fleming
That is South Africa’s first win at the World Cup and what a time to do it. Last year they won the African Cup of Nations but they’ve broken new ground here in Australia to now reach the knockout stages of the World Cup!
A reminder of the full-time results and how the group ended up:
South Africa 3-2 Italy
Argentina 0-2 Sweden
As things stand:
Sweden 9pt
S.Africa 4pts
Italy 3pt
Argentina 1pts
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Wednesday 2 August 2023 10:12 , Ben Fleming
FULL-TIME! SOUTH AFRICA ARE THROUGH!
Well, now the full-time whistle goes and the celebrations begin! The players and staff charge onto the pitch to embrace each other while the Italians haven’t moved. Some on the floor, others standing up - crestfallen in defeat.
But what a performance from South Africa. They went 1-0 down early and were pegged back when they had moved 2-1 ahead but an injury-time winner courtesy of Kgatlana sees them win 3-2, leapfrogging Italy and advancing to the round of 16 at their expense. Remarkable!
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Wednesday 2 August 2023 10:09 , Ben Fleming
A small stoppage after Dhlamini goes down, perhaps winded. Play resumes with a long throw-in for Italy but the South African defence survives. We’re past the allotted 11 minutes of added time but we still they play on...
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Wednesday 2 August 2023 10:04 , Ben Fleming
Five minutes of added time remaining as Italy win a free-kick just inside the South African half. Linari wins the header but there’s not enough power on it to trouble Swart in the South African goal.
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Wednesday 2 August 2023 10:00 , Ben Fleming
Oh my, that was close! Almost straight away, Italy are on the attack and Giacinti fashions a great opportunity with Swart rooted to the spot as the effort just flies wide.
The full-time whistle goes between Sweeden and Argentina - that’s finished 2-0.
South Africa 3-2 Italy
Argentina 0-2 Sweden (FT)
As things stand:
Sweden 9pt
S.Africa 4pts
Italy 3pt
Argentina 1pts
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Wednesday 2 August 2023 09:58 , Ben Fleming
GOOOAALLLL!!! South Africa have found their goal in the second minute of added time and Italy are heading out once again. What a lovely move which starts down this left-hand side again with Seoposenwe. The ball is played inside to Magaia who evades the challenge of Bartoli superbly, advancing into the box before cutting it back to Kgatlana who makes no mistake from close range!
What a moment for South Africa!
South Africa 3-2 Italy
Argentina 0-2 Sweden
As things stand:
Sweden 9pt
S.Africa 4pts
Italy 3pt
Argentina 1pts
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Wednesday 2 August 2023 09:54 , Ben Fleming
ELEVEN minutes of added time here between South Africa and Italy. Can the South Africans find a massive winner in the dying moments?
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Wednesday 2 August 2023 09:52 , Ben Fleming
HUGE CHANCE! That should be game over for Italy. Cantore makes a good burst down the right with South African players pushed up the pitch. She makes the right choice and cuts it back to Girelli but the Italian inexplicably fires straight at the keeper from point-blank range. Could that come back to haunt them?
Over in the other game, Sweeden have taken a 2-0 lead from the spot courtesy of Rubensson.
South Africa 2-2 Italy
Argentina 0-2 Sweden
As things stand:
Sweden 9pts
Italy 4pts
S.Africa 2pts
Argentina 1pt
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Wednesday 2 August 2023 09:48 , Ben Fleming
We are into the last ten minutes between South Africa and Italy with the game still hanging firmly in the balance. South Africa haven’t quite got going again since that Italian equaliser but only one moment of magic is required. Caruso, who scored both vital Italian goals, makes way for Cantore.
In the other game, Sweeden remain in charge and they are heading for a perfect group-stage record and a last 16 crunch tie with the USA.
South Africa 2-2 Italy
Argentina 0-1 Sweden
As things stand:
Sweden 9pts
Italy 4pts
S.Africa 2pts
Argentina 1pt
Women’s World Cup latest - LIVE
Wednesday 2 August 2023 09:42 , Ben Fleming
ITALY DRAW LEVEL! What a pulsating few minutes and Italy think they are ahead. From a corner, Girelli gets a flick at the near post and Caruso is on hand to further divert it into the net! The Italians celebrate wildly as that goal moves them back ahead of South Africa and into second place...but wait!
A VAR check ensues. It’s unclear what for, perhaps an offside from the initial Girelli flick-on?
GOAL STANDS! We are still not sure what they were checking but Italy won’t care one bit now. They are back ahead of South Africa and into second place.
South Africa 2-2 Italy
Argentina 0-1 Sweden
As things stand:
Sweden 9pts
Italy 4pts
S.Africa 2pts
Argentina 1pt
Women’s World Cup latest - LIVE
Wednesday 2 August 2023 09:37 , Ben Fleming
Almost another goal for South Africa as they continue their pressure. Magaia has far too much space down the left and she clips in an inch-perfect cross towards the six-yard box. The ball finds Kgatlana but Durante stretches to tip wide the header superbly!
South Africa 2-1 Italy
Argentina 0-1 Sweden
Women’s World Cup latest - LIVE
Wednesday 2 August 2023 09:35 , Ben Fleming
With those two quickfire goals, here is how the group currently looks:
As it stands:
Sweden 9pt
S.Africa 4pts
Italy 3pt
Argentina 1pts
South Africa 2-1 Italy
Argentina 0-1 Sweden
Women’s World Cup latest - LIVE
Wednesday 2 August 2023 09:33 , Ben Fleming
SOUTH AFRICA AHEAD! More drama in Group G as South Africa take a well-deserved lead after the break. Kgatlana has been at the heart of everything good that South Africa have done going forward this half and she finds Magaia on the left side of the penalty box with a lovely reverse pass. It’s a tidy finish across the keeper and into the far corner and, as things stand, Italy will be going out!
South Africa 2-1 Italy
Argentina 0-1 Sweden
Women’s World Cup latest - LIVE
Wednesday 2 August 2023 09:30 , Ben Fleming
SWEEDEN AHEAD! The deadlock is finally broken and Sweeden have the lead. It’s a well-worked move down the right and Jakobsson is given far too much space to whip in a cross.
She makes no mistake with her whipped delivery landing perfectly on the head of Blomqvist, who nods home from close range.
South Africa 1-1 Italy
Argentina 0-1 Sweden
Women’s World Cup latest - LIVE
Wednesday 2 August 2023 09:26 , Ben Fleming
A couple of changes for Sweeden as their top goalscorer Ilestedt is brought off for Sembrant while Hurtig is also introduced, replacing the lively Schough.
South Africa 1-1 Italy
Argentina 0-0 Sweden
Women’s World Cup latest - LIVE
Wednesday 2 August 2023 09:20 , Ben Fleming
A couple of half chances in both games for Argentina and South Africa. Banini lets fly from range, despite players around her, and her effort is comfortably saved in the Sweeden goal.
In the other game, Kgatlana has a good burst down the left but can’t quite force her effort on target from a tight angle.
Just over ten minutes gone in the second half of both these games.
South Africa 1-1 Italy
Argentina 0-0 Sweden
Women’s World Cup latest - LIVE
Wednesday 2 August 2023 09:16 , Ben Fleming
It’s all rather comfortable for Sweeden at the minute and, despite their numerous changes, the group leaders are continuing to control possession. Argentina need to win this game and surely will step up their attacking intent as this half goes on.
South Africa 1-1 Italy
Argentina 0-0 Sweden
Women’s World Cup latest - LIVE
Wednesday 2 August 2023 09:10 , Ben Fleming
And we are back underway live in the second half. It remains goalless between Argentina and Sweeden, while an Orsi own goal has South Africa level with Italy.
Sarina Wiegman hails England adaptability after big win over China
Wednesday 2 August 2023 09:09 , Karl Matchett
England boss Sarina Wiegman lauded the Lionesses’ adaptability after a system shake-up sparked a thumping 6-1 victory over China at the Women’s World Cup.
The Lionesses had not scored more than once in their opening two matches but came alive on a crisp night in front of 13,497 at Adelaide’s Hindmarsh Stadium to seal top spot in Group D.
Wiegman took a gamble as she swapped England’s usual 4-3-3 for a 3-5-2 formation, and she was rewarded with goals from five different players including a brace from Chelsea prodigy Lauren James, who also picked up three assists.
“I think we are growing into this tournament,” said Wiegman, whose side will travel back to their Terrigal, New South Wales base camp before flying to Brisbane to meet Nigeria in the knockout stages.
More from the boss:
Sarina Wiegman hails England adaptability after big win over China
Millie Bright: England’s captain leading Lionesses into last-16 of Women’s World Cup
Wednesday 2 August 2023 09:05 , Karl Matchett
With the Lionesses’ Euro 2022-winning captain Leah Williamson forced to miss out on the World Cup through injury, coach Sarina Wiegman has entrusted the responsibility for leading the team to experienced Chelsea centre back Millie Bright.
Bright has been passed fit for England’s match against Haiti after recovering from knee surgery and the defender will lead the Lionesses in their Group D opener.
Now 29, Bright grew up in Chesterfield, Derbyshire, overcoming infant pneumonia and asthma to enjoy a career as a top level athlete, although her first love was equestrianism, not football.
Showing early promise when she did take to the field aged nine, she was soon scouted playing for Killamarsh Dynamos by Sheffield United and joined their academy before moving to Doncaster Rovers Belles aged 16 in 2009.
Making her debut that same year and scoring on her first start, Bright spent a year on loan at Leeds Ladies before establishing herself at Doncaster, where she played with future Lionesses Mary Earps and Bethany England.
More on the skipper:
Millie Bright: England’s captain leading Lionesses into last-16 of Women’s World Cup
Women’s World Cup latest - LIVE
Wednesday 2 August 2023 08:56 , Karl Matchett
Half time!
We’re halfway through in both matches. The best chances falling to Sweden in their clash with Argentina but it’s still goalless there.
Italy led from the spot against South Africa before a very strange and very long-range own goal levelled matters.
South Africa 1-1 Italy
Argentina 0-0 Sweden
As it stands:
Sweden 7pts
Italy 4pts
S.Africa 2pts
Argentina 2pts
Women’s World Cup latest - LIVE
Wednesday 2 August 2023 08:50 , Karl Matchett
Big chance for Italy on the break but Beccari overhits the pass and the opportunity is lost.
Another strike from range is then saved, while at the other end of the pitch, Karabo Dhlamini runs onto the ball and lashes a first-time shot wildly off-target. Well into injury time in both matches.
South Africa 1-1 Italy
Argentina 0-0 Sweden
Women’s World Cup latest - LIVE
Wednesday 2 August 2023 08:41 , Karl Matchett
Italy almost immediately back in front as a header clips the post. A VAR check for potential penalty doesn’t go their way either - but the Europeans look to have been sparked back into action by the strange equaliser.
Meanwhile, Florencia Bonsegundo is being stretchered off for Argentina with an apparent knee injury. She looks in some distress as Falfan comes on.
South Africa 1-1 Italy
Argentina 0-0 Sweden
Women’s World Cup latest - LIVE
Wednesday 2 August 2023 08:34 , Karl Matchett
GOAL!
What on earth?! South Africa gifted a route back into the game as Benedetta Orsi spins and plays a blind backpass - far too hard and far too inaccurate, beating her own goalkeeper from 25 yards and scoring an own goal!
Incredible way to level matters.
South Africa 1-1 Italy
Argentina 0-0 Sweden
Women’s World Cup latest - LIVE
Wednesday 2 August 2023 08:31 , Karl Matchett
Sweden’s best move of the match down the right - Jakobsson gets into space behind the defence and clips a decent ball across, but Schough’s eventual header is weak and off-target.
Half an hour into the first half in both games and as it stands the European nations are both progressing in relative comfort.
South Africa 0-1 Italy
Argentina 0-0 Sweden
Women’s World Cup latest - LIVE
Wednesday 2 August 2023 08:24 , Karl Matchett
Off the post! South Africa close to an equaliser as a lnog-range effort crashes out off the woodwork!
Argentina meanwhile continue to push through set pieces but they haven’t really managed to threaten Jennifer Falk in goal for Sweden yet.
Women’s World Cup latest - LIVE
Wednesday 2 August 2023 08:18 , Karl Matchett
A reminder of what each of the quartet now in action requires:
Sweden
- Sweden are already through to the last-16 and top spot in Group G will be confirmed with at least a draw against Argentina.
- Even if Sweden lose, they are still likely to finish top spot. It would take an Italy win, combined with a 10-goal swing, for them to finish second.
Italy
- Italy will go through win a win against South Africa but will be knocked out with a defeat .
- A draw would only be enough if Argentina fail to beat Sweden. Given Italy’s goal difference of -4, any Argentina win against Sweden would see them knocked out if they draw.
South Africa
- South Africa can only go through if they beat Italy, but would only be guaranteed a place in the last-16 if Argentina fail to win.
- If South Africa and Argentina both win, it will go down to goal difference and then goals scored.
Argentina
- Argentina can only go through if they beat Sweden. Like South Africa, they will only be guaranteed a place in the last-16 if South Africa draw or lose and if both teams win it will go down to goal difference.
Women’s World Cup latest - LIVE
Wednesday 2 August 2023 08:14 , Karl Matchett
GOAL!
Italy are ahead from the penalty spot! Caruso knocks home the spot kick, low to her left, after VAR signalled a foul which wasn’t initially spotted.
That means Argentina, as it stands, cannot go through even if they win. They need South Africa to find a result as well as getting one of their own.
Women’s World Cup latest - LIVE
Wednesday 2 August 2023 08:04 , Karl Matchett
Underway in both matches!
Here’s the state of play in Group G:
Sweden 6pts
Italy 3pts
South Africa 1pt
Argentina 1pt
A big ask for either of South Africa or Argentina to win today, but win they must to progress.
Women’s World Cup TV schedule: How to watch every match today
Wednesday 2 August 2023 07:58 , Karl Matchett
Lauren James shone again with two fine goals as England put in their best performance of the Women’s World Cup so far to sweep aside China 6-1 and march into the last 16.
That gave England an emphatic victory as they head off to Brisbane to play Nigeria on Monday for a place in the quarter-finals.
Elsewhere, the United States survived a mighty scare against Portugal to narrowly reach the last-16.
Today, Groups F and G will be concluded, with two more games in Group H tomorrow.
Here is everything you need to know about how to watch the Women’s World Cup.
Women’s World Cup TV schedule: How to watch every match today
When do England play next? Women’s World Cup fixtures and route to the final
Wednesday 2 August 2023 07:54 , Karl Matchett
Lauren James inspired England to a thrilling Women’s World Cup victory over China and now the Lionesses are into the knock-out stages of the tournament.
The Chelsea forward has produced some spectacular strikes already down under, with England rebounding from the injury loss of Keira Walsh.
Sarina Wiegman has reshuffled the pack spectacularly and England have regained their confidence, particularly in front of goal.
Here’s everything you need to know about the Lionesses’ next challenge in Australia:
When do England play next? Women’s World Cup fixtures and route to the final
Women’s World Cup golden boot: Who’s leading the top-scorer standings?
Wednesday 2 August 2023 07:50 , Karl Matchett
The race for the Women’s World Cup golden boot is taking shape as the group stages continue in Australia and New Zealand.
Japan’s Hinata Miyazawa bagged a brace in the 4-0 victory over Spain to move top of the top-scorer standings, with Lauren James among those on three goals after her stunning double in England’s 6-1 win over China.
If two or more players finish on the same number of goals, the golden boot will be determined by assists and then on minutes played.
Women’s World Cup golden boot: Who’s leading the top-scorer standings?
Sarina Wiegman’s brave switch solves England’s Keira Walsh problem at Women’s World Cup
Wednesday 2 August 2023 07:46 , Karl Matchett
Rip it up and start again: if Keira Walsh’s injury spelled the end of something at the Women’s World Cup, it only did for England’s starting formation. Against China, Sarina Wiegman made her most dramatic change as Lionesses manager yet, switching to a 3-5-2 system to counter the blow of losing their key midfielder. In doing so, Wiegman created something new, unlocking England’s best performance in months.
The Lionesses looked like themselves again, and while England’s 6-1 win against China made sure of their progress to the last-16 as Group D winners, as much focus will be on how Wiegman has recalibrated and recharged her side ahead of the knockout stages. After two 1-0 wins over Haiti and Denmark there was an element of danger coming into the decider, but from the opening moments, the tempo and fluidity of England’s performance erased any doubts.
Sarina Wiegman’s brave England switch solves key Women’s World Cup problem
Genius Lauren James takes over Women’s World Cup — but England must learn from rivals
Wednesday 2 August 2023 07:38 , Karl Matchett
Much like Lauren James’s divine second goal, this might be dropping beautifully for England. Certainly, Sarina Wiegman suddenly has clarity in a World Cup characterised by uncertainty and unpredictability. James’s very role illustrates that. The young winger’s influence from that wide role was a driving force in this crushing 6-1 win over China that confirmed an expected first place.
It is a first place, however, that suddenly looks very different. The path to the semi-finals, at least, is something else that’s so much clearer.
It now won’t feature Australia or Canada, and may not have any of France, Brazil or Germany. A thrilling Colombia and dangerous last-16 opponents Nigeria are huge threats, but there is the prospect that such developing teams have had their main highs. Just as importantly, the World Cup’s stand-out performers so far, in Japan, are on the other side of the draw.
On that, and the elusive momentum that defines tournaments, England now have none of the sudden doubts that are afflicting other previous favourites in Spain and – above all – the USA.
Read more:
Lauren James takes over World Cup — but England must learn from rivals
