03 August 2023 , 12:40
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England cruised into the knockout rounds of the Women’s World Cup with a thrashing of China.
And that means it will be the Lionesses against Nigeria in the last 16.
Sarina Wiegman’s side had claimed maximum points from their opening two matches, but the European champions were far from their fluent best in back-to-back wins over Haiti and Denmark; they secured 1-0 wins against both opponents, but were largely indebted to the brilliance of goalkeeper Mary Earps.
As such, their place in the knockout stages was, despite their 100 percent record, far from secure ahead of their showdown with China in Adelaide.
Lauren James of England celebrates with team-mate Rachel Daly against China (The FA via Getty Images)But the Lionesses were magnificent at Hindmarsh Stadium, dominating from the outset and ultimately cruising to victory. Alessia Russo opened the scoring early, Lauren Hemp doubled the advantage and Lauren James made it 3-0 before the break. China struck back through a penalty but James notched her second, before Chloe Kelly and Rachel Daly ensured an emphatic 6-1 triumph. That means a meeting with surprise package Nigeria, who finished runners-up to Australia in Group B, in the next round.
Earps reacts to FIFA Best nomination and on season so far with Man Utd
Following EURO 2022 runners-up Germany's shock group stage exit, the Lionesses' route to the Final looks pretty favourable, however Sarina Wiegman's side will know that no team should be underestimated at this summer's tournament.
With all that being said, Mirror Football takes a look at England’s potential route to the final...
Round of 16
England vs NIGERIA - Brisbane Stadium – 7 August @ 8:30am
Quarter-finals
England vs ColombiaOR Jamaica - Stadium Australia - 12 August @ 8:00am
Semi-finals
England vs Australia OR Denmark OR France OR Morocco - Stadium Australia - 16 August @ 11:00am
Final
If the Lionesses are triumphant, a berth in the Women's World Cup final awaits them. The final is set to be held at Stadium Australia on 20 August with an 11:00am kick-off time.
England could face one of USA, Sweden, Spain, Norway, Japan, South Africa, Switzerland or Netherlands.