Australia’s hopes of reaching the knockout stages of the Women’s World Cup are in danger after Nigeria shocked the tournament co-hosts with a stunning 3-2 win in Brisbane.
In the upset of the tournament so far, Nigeria came from behind to take top spot in Group B, leaving Australia behind second-placed Canada ahead of their crunch meeting in Melbourne on Monday.
Earlier, the United States battled back to claim a 1-1 draw against the Netherlands in a thrilling rematch of the 2019 World Cup final. Lindsey Horan equalised for the defending champions after Jill Roord fired the Dutch into a deserved lead in Group E.
On Friday, England continue their Women’s World Cup campaign against Denmark in a crunch Group D clash in Sydney – with Sarina Wiegman hinting that there may be changes to the side following the underwhelming opening win over Haiti.
Follow the latest World Cup scores, updates and news in today’s live blog
Women’s World Cup LIVE: Latest updates
The Women’s World Cup continues in Australia and New Zealand
England prepare for Group D clash against Denmark
World Cup co-hosts Australia lose to Nigeria in five-goal thriller
Netherlands earn 1-1 draw with USA in 2019 final rematch
Portugal defeat Vietnam 2-0 to keep hopes of reaching last-16 alive
Ireland ‘heartbroken’ as Canada comeback reveals World Cup lesson
14:53 , Mike Jones
There was no other way for Katie McCabe to put it, nor was there anywhere to hide her emotions. In 90 minutes, the Ireland captain had gone from the elation of scoring her country’s first goal at the Women’s World Cup to the heartbreak of going out after two matches.
Ireland will leave the tournament believing they deserved more and while the joy was great while it lasted, it probably made it hurt a whole lot more when it was over.
Canada’s comeback on a sodden night in Perth ended any hopes Ireland had of reaching the knockout stages, leaving their final fixture against Nigeria on Monday as a dead-rubber.
The ‘group of death’, at least from Ireland’s perspective, played out in the manner that many had feared. After facing the unenviable task of facing co-hosts Australia in their opening game, Ireland had to at least draw against an experienced and gritty Canada side who had their backs against the wall. Realistically, they couldn’t have asked for two harder games to start their first ever World Cup adventure.
Ireland ‘heartbroken’ as Canada comeback reveals World Cup lesson
What to expect at the Women’s World Cup 2023
14:42 , Mike Jones
The Independent’s Sonia Twigg answers all the important questions about this edition of the Women’s World Cup, such as can England win the tournament?
Sarina Wiegman ready to ring changes to rejuvenate rusty England
14:33 , Mike Jones
England boss Sarina Wiegman declared she is willing to “make changes” as the Lionesses look to secure a second successive World Cup victory against Denmark on Friday.
Wiegman stuck with the same starting XI for every match of England’s triumphant Euro 2022 campaign, but the retirements of striker Ellen White and midfielder Jill Scott alongside injuries to European champions Beth Mead, Leah Williamson and Fran Kirby have left her current 23-woman squad looking significantly different.
The 53-year-old called for more “ruthlessness” from her side following the nervy 1-0 tournament-opening win over Haiti, decided by Georgia Stanway’s retaken penalty despite several missed chances in open play.
Sarina Wiegman ready to ring changes to rejuvenate rusty England
Women’s football world rankings: Who could take No 1 at the World Cup?
14:24 , Mike Jones
The United States remain the team to beat ahead of the Women’s World Cup and the two-time defending champions remain number one in the Fifa rankings ahead of the tournament.
The USA are looking to become the first country to win three World Cups in a row and have held top spot since 2017.
But the tournament in Australia and New Zealand could bring a shake-up to the order. Europe is catching up and the likes of England, Germany, France and Spain will be coming for the USA’s crown.
Zambia come into the World Cup as the lowest-ranked team at the tournament, which is hosting 32 teams for the first time.
Women’s football world rankings: Who could take No 1 at the World Cup?
Lionesses prepare for Denmark
14:13 , Mike Jones
England take on Denmark on Friday morning as they look to secure a place in the knockout rounds of the Women’s World Cup.
The Lionesses who move to the top of Group D if they win and could qualify for the next round if the match between China and Haiti ends in a draw.
During their practice today, Sarina Wiegman’s squad were are smiles as they try to hone their tactics ahead of their toughest test of the group stages.
Keira Walsh not focused on personal treble as England chase World Cup glory
14:03 , Mike Jones
England midfielder Keira Walsh insists the prospect of completing a personal trophy treble with a World Cup win has scarcely crossed her mind.
Walsh followed up England’s Euro 2022 triumph and player-of-the-match honours in that final with a move to Barcelona, with whom she achieved Champions League glory alongside fellow Lioness Lucy Bronze in June.
A first World Cup at the August 20 Sydney final would cap off a phenomenal 13-month run for Rochdale native Walsh, who joined the Spanish side for what was believed to be a world record fee in September.
Keira Walsh not focused on personal treble as England chase World Cup glory
Darts, colouring in and 1,000 bags of Yorkshire tea: Inside the Lionesses’ World Cup den
13:54 , Mike Jones
The central coast beaches of Terrigal are a far cry from the metropolitan hustle and bustle of nearby Sydney, but they provide a fitting “home away from home” for the Lionesses as they embark on their Women’s World Cup campaign.
This quiet town, about 51km (32 miles) north of Australia’s largest city, is an environment in which the team can free themselves from the stresses of a major tournament.
It’s the first time the FA have ever allowed the media access to an England base camp and Kay Cossington, the FA’s women’s technical director, and Anja van Ginhoven, England’s women’s general manager, are excited to reveal what they’ve delivered for the squad.
A private entrance to the hotel is adorned with the Three Lions crest, the staircase that leads you towards the team’s home sits underneath a red and white balloon arch, while the stairs themselves bear phrases to drive home the motivation: “Our England, our family, bonded by pride,” reads one.
Games, colouring and 1,000 bags of tea: Inside the Lionesses’ World Cup den
Sarina Wiegman must take chance to reset England’s World Cup bid
13:44 , Mike Jones
As Sarina Wiegman admitted she is willing to twist rather than stick, England are still in a position where they are needing more than that. The Lionesses go into their second match of the Women’s World Cup against Denmark looking to rediscover their goalscoring form and lift the mood that was left rather flat by the opening 1-0 win against Haiti on Saturday.
There are lots of reasons not to panic. It is true to say that the opening games in tournaments are rarely easy, and that the Lionesses also laboured to a 1-0 win over Austria to kick off the Euros last summer. Wiegman’s teams are typically slow-starters, with her Netherlands sides winning 1-0 on their first matches at both the 2017 Euros, which they won, and the 2019 World Cup, where they reached the final.
While Denmark are considered to be England’s toughest test of Group D, Haiti, led by their 18-year-old star Melchie Dumornay, were also stronger opposition than anyone was expecting, playing a high-tempo match that the Lionesses did not seem ready for at this stage of the tournament. But England won, and should Haiti go on to trouble China and Denmark, that result will undoubtedly be viewed in a very different context.
Sarina Wiegman must take chance to reset England’s World Cup bid
Women’s World Cup schedule: How to watch every match
13:34 , Mike Jones
For UK viewers, every game will be available to watch on the BBC and ITV.
For the BBC, there will be live coverage on television as well as the BBC Sport website with live audio commentary available on BBC Radio 5 Live, 5 Sports Extra and the BBC Sounds app.
For ITV, live coverage will be available on television as well as online via ITVX.
At present, the BBC and ITV have only announced the schedule for the group stages, although the BBC have said they will broadcast both semi-finals with the final available on both channels.
Women’s World Cup TV schedule: How to watch every match today
Women’s World Cup 2023: Australia 2-3 Nigeria
13:24 , Mike Jones
What a day at the World Cup. Portugal eased past Vietnam 2-0 whilst the USA and the Netherlands went toe-to-toe in a repeat of the 2019 final.
The Netherlands took the lead but the reigning World Champions fought back to earn a draw.
In the final match of the day, co-hosts Australia hoped to qualify for the knockout rounds but they were defeated by Nigeria who performed brilliantly to edge a five-goal thriller 3-2.
Women’s World Cup 2023: Australia 2-3 Nigeria
13:13 , Mike Jones
Asisat Oshoala’s goal is the difference between the teams at the end of this game. She’s ensured that Nigeria become the first African team to win at this edition of the Women’s World Cup.
(Getty Images)
(Getty Images)
(REUTERS)
Women’s World Cup 2023: Australia 2-3 Nigeria
13:09 , Mike Jones
Lapses in concentration and a lack of energy in the second half has cost Australia this game. After two group games, Nigeria are top of Group B with four points from six.
In second are Canada who also have four points while Australia sit third on three. Ireland are already out of the tournament but they could still influence this group if they defeat Nigeria next time out.
Australia must beat Canada to guarantee a spot in the knockout rounds. Expect Sam Kerr to feature in that match after missing the first two due to injury.
Women’s World Cup LIVE: Australia 2-3 Nigeria
13:06 , Mike Jones
Full-time!
90+13 mins: Time runs out for Australia. They fought to the very end but Nigeria get over the line with a victory that blows up Group B.
Nigeria, Australia and Canada are all within one point of each other going into the final group games. Nigeria face the Republic of Ireland whilst Australia take on the Canadians.
Nigeria move to the top of the group. What a result.
Women’s World Cup LIVE: GOAL! Australia 2-3 Nigeria (Kennedy, 90+10’)⚽️
13:04 , Mike Jones
90+10 mins: Game on!
Australia win a corner and send goalkeeper, Mackenzie Arnold up the pitch. The ball sails over her but lands on the head of Alanna Kennedy who nods a lovely finish past Chiamaka Nnadozie to give the hosts some hope of a draw.
Women’s World Cup LIVE: Australia 1-3 Nigeria
13:00 , Mike Jones
90+6 mins: Save! Australia whip the cross into the box from the right side of the pitch. The ball skims over the top of Alanna Kennedy’s head but bounces up nicely for Caitlin Foord who bombs a header at goal only for Chiamaka Nnadozie to palm the effort away.
Great save from Nigeria’s goalkeeper who keeps her team’s two-goal advantage in tact.
Women’s World Cup LIVE: Australia 1-3 Nigeria
12:56 , Mike Jones
90+3 mins: Emily van Egmond flicks the ball into the right side of the box for Alex Chidiac who controls it then lifts a prodded effort over the top!
That was a close one but Australia still need goals.
Women’s World Cup LIVE: Australia 1-3 Nigeria
12:55 , Mike Jones
90 mins: There’s 11 minutes of stoppage time! That’s plenty of time for more goals but maybe not enough for Australia to salvage something from this match.
Women’s World Cup LIVE: Australia 1-3 Nigeria
12:51 , Mike Jones
87 mins: Australia have looked a little bereft of ideas in this match. Chidiac collects a knock down from Alanna Kennedy and shifts into the left side of the box, She shoots but her low effort is smothered by Chiamaka Nnadozie diving across to her right.
Women’s World Cup LIVE: Australia 1-3 Nigeria
12:49 , Mike Jones
84 mins: Echegini gives away a free kick and Australia have the chance to get one bakc. Catley and Raso stand over the ball before a change in personnel sees Raso leave the pitch.
Alex Chidiac comes on as the set piece is flicked into the box. Nigeria boot the ball away without too much trouble.
Women’s World Cup LIVE: Australia 1-3 Nigeria
12:44 , Mike Jones
81 mins: Inside the final 10 minutes of the match now. Australia haven’t made any substitutions but they’re starting to increase the pressure on Nigeria.
Caitlin Foord receives the ball on the left wing. She cuts inside and pings a decent shot at goal where Chiamaka Nnadozie tips it over the top.
The referee awards Nigeria a goal kick and Foord isn’t happy.
Women’s World Cup LIVE: Australia 1-3 Nigeria
12:42 , Mike Jones
78 mins: Jennifer Onyinyechi Echegini is brought on for Nigeria to shore up the defence even further. Halimatu Ayinde is sacrificed from midfield.
Close! A cross comes in from the right for Australia. Alanna Kennedy, trying to make up for her earlier mistake, leaps towards the ball and whips her headed effort just over the crossbar.
Women’s World Cup LIVE: Australia 1-3 Nigeria
12:39 , Mike Jones
75 mins: Australia have been underpar in this second half. They’ve never got themselves back up to tempo and Nigeria sensed that there were openings for them to exploit.
The African side have been beltin’ in this second half and fully deserve their lead. Can they see out the final quarter of an hour plus stoppage time?
Women’s World Cup LIVE: GOAL! Australia 1-3 Nigeria (Oshoala, 72’)⚽️
12:37 , Mike Jones
72 mins: Huge moment! Asisat Oshoala comes off the bench to send Nigeria further ahead. Toni Payne flicks the ball up the pitch and gets it to bounce over Alanna Kennedy’s head.
The centre-back doesn’t deal with the ball and is forced off it by the substitute. Mackenzie Arnold is off her line and Oshoala dinks the ball into the net from a tight angle on the right.
Great goal. Australia are in real trouble now.
Women’s World Cup LIVE: Australia 1-2 Nigeria
12:35 , Mike Jones
71 mins: Halimatu Ayinde is on the floor now after a coming together with Hayley Raso. There are growing signs of worry in the Australian dugout.
Time is running away from them. This half has seen plenty of injuries so there’ll be a bunch of time added on at the end.
Australia win a free kick over to the right of the penalty area. It’s fizzed into the near post but Caitlin Foord can’t control it and the ball goes out for a goal kick.
Women’s World Cup LIVE: Australia 1-2 Nigeria
12:32 , Mike Jones
68 mins: Ohale took a foot to the chest as she nodded that ball over the line for Nigeria. There’s a break in play as she receives some treatment but she’ll be buoyed on by putting her team ahead.
Australia need to respond now. The crowd are starting to increase the noise levels too.
Women’s World Cup LIVE: GOAL! Australia 1-2 Nigeria (Ohale, 65’)⚽️
12:31 , Mike Jones
65 mins: Nigeria lead! A corner kick is whipped into the box where Emily van Egmond gets on the end of it. She can’t completely clear her lines and Nigeria nod the second ball over to Rasheedat Ajibade.
She squares the ball into the six yard box and lifts it over the goalkeeper’s left arm. Osinachi Ohale arrives at the back post and heads the ball into the back of the net just as she’s taken out by Alanna Kennedy’s attempt to clear the danger.
Nigeria score and go ahead!
Women’s World Cup LIVE: Australia 1-1 Nigeria
12:28 , Mike Jones
64 mins: Kyra Cooney-Cross shuffles onto her left foot and has a go from a long way out as Nigeria fail to close her down. Her effort is pulled wide of the target and Nigeria earn a goal kick.
There’s a couple of changes for Nigeria now. Uchenna Kanu and Ifeoma Onumonu go off with Asist Oshoala and Esther Okoronkwo introduced.
Women’s World Cup LIVE: Australia 1-1 Nigeria
12:25 , Mike Jones
62 mins: That’s lovely play. As Nigeria defend with 10 players, Australia work the ball out to the right side where Ellie Carpenter gets forward on the overlap.
She lifts a fine cross into the middle where Caitlin Foord’s header lands safely in the hands of Chiamaka Nnadouzie.
Payne is back on the pitch but she’s not moving comfortably.
Women’s World Cup LIVE: Australia 1-1 Nigeria
12:23 , Mike Jones
60 mins: Ouch! Toni Payne is struggling for Nigeria. She twists awkwardly after a challenge in the middle of the pitch and stays down. The physios help her off the pitch but they’ve got an ice pack over her left leg.
Payne grimaces as she hobbles off, this would be a big loss for Nigeria if she cannot return.
Women’s World Cup LIVE: Australia 1-1 Nigeria
12:20 , Mike Jones
57 mins: The shots are coming in from Nigeria now. There seems to have been a switch in the visitors’ minds that this game is there to win. Ajibade takes a fizzing shot from the left side of the box but can’t beat Mackenzie Arnold.
Australia look nervous. Their mistakes are starting to add up and they’re not moving the ball as freely.
Women’s World Cup LIVE: Australia 1-1 Nigeria
12:18 , Mike Jones
54 mins: Chance! Nigeria weather a bit of pressure and clear their lines after the Australia corner. They pass the ball nicely through the middle of the pitch and feed it up to Rasheedat Ajibade.
She’s got time to operate and lets fly from range. Her shot is pretty good but the ball continues to rise and heads over the bar.
Women’s World Cup LIVE: Australia 1-1 Nigeria
12:15 , Mike Jones
51 mins: Gorry dinks the ball down the right side and looks to pick out Raso. She’s put under pressure from Michelle Alozie who leaps over her and nods the ball out of play.
Foord is then sent into space on the right side and earns Australia a corner kick.
Women’s World Cup LIVE: Australia 1-1 Nigeria
12:12 , Mike Jones
48 mins: The tempo has slowed right down in these opening minutes to the second half. Australia have made a couple loose passes and are trying to regain the momentum they had in the first 45 minutes.
Women’s World Cup LIVE: Australia 1-1 Nigeria
12:09 , Mike Jones
Second half!
Australia get the match back underway. The Matildas know that a victory here would see them safely into the knockout rounds before a tricky final group game against Canada.
Katrin Gorry boots the ball long but Nigeria head it clear easily enough.
Women’s World Cup LIVE: Australia 1-1 Nigeria
12:07 , Mike Jones
This is the last game of the day for the Women’s World Cup but the action returns tomorrow morning. England are back on the pitch as they take on Denmark in Group D.
The winner of that one will probably ensure they make it into the knockout rounds as both teams won their opening matches. It’s a massive game for Sarina Wiegman’s side who were under par in their opener against Haiti.
Can they earn another win?
Women’s World Cup LIVE: Australia 1-1 Nigeria
12:02 , Mike Jones
Australia had 12 shots in that first half but only two were on target. In comparison, Nigeria afforded Australia possession and only managed three attempts.
The only one on target came from Uchenna Kanu who slotted in an equaliser right at the end of the half.
Women’s World Cup LIVE: Australia 1-1 Nigeria
11:58 , Mike Jones
(Getty Images)
(REUTERS)
(REUTERS)
Women’s World Cup LIVE: Australia 1-1 Nigeria
11:54 , Mike Jones
Half-time!
45+7 mins: What an end to the first half! Two stoppage time goals, one for both teams, and the sides head into the break on level terms once again.
There’s everything to play for in the second half.
Women’s World Cup LIVE: GOAL! Australia 1-1 Nigeria (Kanu, 45+6’)⚽️
11:53 , Mike Jones
45+6 mins: Equaliser! What a response from Nigeria.
The turn the ball past Katrina Gorry in midfield and work it over to Rasheedat Ajibade on the left wing. Ajibade whips the cross into the box and picks out Uchenna Kanu on the far side.
Kanu squeezes ahead of Steph Catley and guides the ball into the near corner. Great finish and Nigeria are back in the game.
Women’s World Cup LIVE: GOAL! Australia 1-0 Nigeria (Van Egmond, 45+1’)⚽️
11:48 , Mike Jones
45+1 mins: Deadlock broken!
Australia win the ball from a goal kick and send it straight to Caitlin Foord who bombs forward. Foord carries the ball to the edge of the box before slipping it inside to Emily van Egmond who passes a first time shot into the far bottom corner!
Lovely finish and Australia lead.
Women’s World Cup LIVE: Australia 0-0 Nigeria
11:46 , Mike Jones
45 mins: There’s going to be five minutes of stoppage time at the end of this half. Can one of these teams break the deadlock?
Women’s World Cup LIVE: Australia 0-0 Nigeria
11:43 , Mike Jones
41 mins: Close! A Nigerian corner is nodded out to the edge of the box where the ball bounces up for Christy Ucheibe. She leaps above the ball and nails a shot towards goal.
Mackenzie Arnold moves to the right to cover the line of the ball but a deflection off Ashleight Plumptre leaves the goalkeeper wrong footed.
The ball looks to be heading in but spins wide of the far post and out of play.
Women’s World Cup LIVE: Australia 0-0 Nigeria
11:40 , Mike Jones
38 mins: Australia clear their lines after defending free kick and sweep rapidly up the pitch. Caitlin Foord is given the ball and despite being closed down by three defenders manages to win a corner.
The set piece is whipped into the box where Chiamaka Nnadozie spills it. The ball comes out to Foord who has a couple of shots blocked by the defence before the ball bobbles to the edge of the box.
Emily van Egmond is there to meet the ball and she smokes a shot over the top.
Women’s World Cup LIVE: Australia 0-0 Nigeria
11:37 , Mike Jones
35 mins: Steph Catley plays a corner short to Katrina Gorry who shifts to the right and whips a cross into the box. Halimatu Ayinde meets the ball in the air and heads it away but Catley recovers the ball.
She snatches at a shot from range but pulls it wide of the right-hand post. A sign of frustration from the Australian captain perhaps?
Women’s World Cup LIVE: Australia 0-0 Nigeria
11:33 , Mike Jones
32 mins: Chance! Steph Catley swings another corner into the near post. The ball gets flicked on by a defender but Hayley Raso pops up at the back post to meet the ball on the volley.
She turns it goalwards but guides her effort agonisingly wide of the post and Nigeria survive. That’s the best moment of the match so far.
Women’s World Cup LIVE: Australia 0-0 Nigeria
11:31 , Mike Jones
30 mins: Close! Nnadozie flies off her line to punch the ball away from a corner. She doesn’t connect well and only manages to knock the ball to Emily van Egmond who flicks it back into the middle.
Alanna Kennedy is there to win the header but she can’t control it and her attempt is cleared. There’s a follow up shot from range but it sails high and wide.
Women’s World Cup LIVE: Australia 0-0 Nigeria
11:29 , Mike Jones
28 mins: Alanna Kennedy steps up the pitch as Australia push forward. She’s given the ball and lifts a decent pass into the penalty area for Caitlin Foord, who has very much been the target woman so far.
The ball drops over the forward’s head and is scooped up cleanly by Nigerian goalkeeper, Chiamaka Nnadozie.
Women’s World Cup LIVE: Australia 0-0 Nigeria
11:26 , Mike Jones
25 mins: Vine is up and walks off the pitch. She’ll play on after this set piece. Katrina Gorry knocks the ball short in a training ground move.
The ball is floated over Nigeria’s high line and drops onto the head of Caitlin Foord. Foord looks to head the ball across the six-yard area but it goes out of play and the offside flag is raised anyway.
Vine jogs back onto the pitch.
Women’s World Cup LIVE: Australia 0-0 Nigeria
11:24 , Mike Jones
22 mins: Cortnee Vine has stayed down after a tackle and needs a check over by the physios. She looks okay to play on but the medics are taking their time with a concussion procedure.
Australia have a free kick in a decent area, inside Nigeria’s final third.
Women’s World Cup LIVE: Australia 0-0 Nigeria
11:22 , Mike Jones
19 mins: Toni Payne is fuming at Uchenna Kanu. Payne wins the ball and drives through the middle of the pitch. She skips around two Australian midfielders before looking to offload the ball out wide.
Kanu is rooted to the spot and not offering a pass for Payne who yells at her to come closer. When Kanu receives it she tries to send Ifeoma Onumonu in behind but overhits her pass and knocks the ball out of play.
Not the best couple of minutes of the Nigerian winger.
Women’s World Cup LIVE: Australia 0-0 Nigeria
11:18 , Mike Jones
16 mins: There’s a little bit of pushing inside the box as Nigeria set up for a corner. The referee calms things down before the ball is hooked into the middle.
Mackenzie Arnold comes off her line and flaps at the ball, managing to push it away from the nearest attackers. Ifeoma Onumonu tries to recover possession and keep the attack alive, but it’s wrestled away from her and booted clear.
Women’s World Cup LIVE: Australia 0-0 Nigeria
11:15 , Mike Jones
13 mins: Katrina Gorry drifts into the right side of the box and takes possession. She curls an attempted cross into the middle but Ashleigh Plumptre is there to block the effort with her face!
The ball deflects out for an Australian corner. Steph Catley swings the ball into the box but Osinachi Ohale leaps up to nod it away.
Chance! The Aussies recycle the ball and send it over to Catley who sweeps into the box. She’s got bags of space and whips a shot towards the near post but Chiamaka Nnadozie dives to her left and palms it past the post!
Women’s World Cup LIVE: Australia 0-0 Nigeria
11:12 , Mike Jones
10 mins: Mackenzie Arnold, Australia’s goalkeeper, gets her first touch of the game in the 10th minute as Australia retreat in the hopes of building an attack from deep.
The hosts have seen most of possession in this opening stages as Nigeria look for avenues to get themselves into this match.
Women’s World Cup LIVE: Australia 0-0 Nigeria
11:08 , Mike Jones
6 mins: Foord receives the ball along the halfway line for Australia and turns nicely. She’s the highest Australian player up the pitch but drives on, taking it towards the Nigerian defence.
Foord holds the ball up against a couple of defenders but Christy Ucheibe sweeps across from the left and nicks possession before kicking Nigeria into a counter-attack of sorts.
Women’s World Cup LIVE: Australia 0-0 Nigeria
11:05 , Mike Jones
3 mins: Australia have started well, they’re pressing high and trying to force Nigeria bck. Cortnee Vine is playing higher in this game than she did against Ireland.
Over on the left she brings the ball forward befor slotting a pass inside. The ball gets floated into the penalty area towards Caitlin Foord but Chiamaka Nnadozie watches as it floats out of play.
Goal kick.
Women’s World Cup LIVE: Australia 0-0 Nigeria
11:02 , Mike Jones
Kick off!
Nigeria get the game underway. This is a crucial one for both these teams. Should Australia win, they will be safely through to the knockout rounds before they play Canada.
If Nigeria are triumphant, the two qualifiers from Group B will be decided in the final gameweek.
Women’s World Cup LIVE: Australia vs Nigeria
10:56 , Jamie Braidwood
Here we go! It’s another sell-out for Australia, this time in Brisbane. Can the Matildas book their place in the knockout stages or will Nigeria frustrate them to take Group B down to the final matchday?
Women’s World Cup LIVE: Australia vs Nigeria
10:49 , Jamie Braidwood
Australia came into their home World Cup in great form having won ten of their last 11 international matches (W10 L1), while the Matildas have kept seven clean sheets in their last nine international fixtures.
Nigeria have played at all nine previous World Cups but their 0-0 draw against Canada was their first goalless stalemate in 27 previous appearances at the tournament – Nigeria have won only two of their last 18 Women’s World Cup matches (D3 L13).
Women’s World Cup LIVE: Australia vs Nigeria
10:40 , Jamie Braidwood
Australia needed a Steph Catley penalty to squeeze past a determined Ireland in their opening match in Sydney. That came after the shock news of Sam Kerr being ruled out for their first two matches and the Matildas will have had more time to adjust the team without their striker.
(Getty Images)
(Getty Images)
FULL TIME! Women’s World Cup LIVE: Portugal 2-0 Vietnam
10:23 , Jamie Braidwood
Portugal celebrate their first ever win at the Women’s World Cup! They will face the United States with their hopes of reaching the knockout stages alive after a comfortable win against Vietnam. The first half was certainly impressive, but the second was played out on auto-pilot. Vietnam are now unable to advance to the last-16 ahead of their final match with the Netherlands. They are out.
(Getty Images)
(Getty Images)
Women’s World Cup LIVE: Australia vs Nigeria
10:18 , Jamie Braidwood
As expected, Australia remain without Sam Kerr for their second match of the Women’s World Cup due to a calf injury. Mary Fowler is only fit enough for the bench, leaving the Matildas without their two leading forwards.
The big team news from Nigeria is that Barcelona star Asisat Oshoala finds herself on the bench.
Australia XI: Arnold, Carpenter, Hunt, Kennedy, Catley, Gorry, Van Egmond, Cooney-Cross, Vine, Foord, Raso.
Subs: Williams, Chidiac, Fowler, Grant, Kerr, Luik, Nevin, Polkinghorne, Simon, Wheeler, Yallop, Micah
Nigeria XI: Nnadozie, Alozie, Ohale, Demehin, Plumptre, Payne, Ucheibe, Ayinde, Onumonu, Kanu, Ajibade
Subs: Oluehi, Ebi, Echegini, Imuran, Monday, Ogbonna, Okoronkwo, Oparanozie, Ordega, Oshoala, Balogun
(Getty Images)
Women’s World Cup LIVE: Portugal 2-0 Vietnam
10:11 , Jamie Braidwood
81 mins: Portugal don’t seem to be too concerned by goal difference, and really it’s not going to be too much of a factor before their final match against the USA. Portugal need to win that, unless the Netherlands manage to draw against Vietnam. Only then would goal difference become important.
Women’s World Cup LIVE: Portugal 2-0 Vietnam
09:59 , Jamie Braidwood
69 mins: That’s it for Silva! The Portugal forward is taken off with 20 minutes to go, unable to find her first World Cup goal. But the attention is very much now on the final group match against the United States, which Portugal will have to win to reach the knockout stages.
(Getty Images)
Women’s World Cup LIVE: Portugal 2-0 Vietnam
09:56 , Jamie Braidwood
65 mins: Silva is getting closer but Portugal are denied again! Vietnam goalkeeper Kim Thanh makes the save at close range but the ball spills to Silva, who is unable to find the angle to squeeze it in.
Women’s World Cup LIVE: Portugal 2-0 Vietnam
09:49 , Jamie Braidwood
59 mins: Close! Joana Marchão takes aim from the left edge of the box and her shot skims the crossbar.
Andreia Jacinto then drags her shot narrowly wide following a short-corner routine. Portugal are getting closer to their third, which would really kill the game.
Women’s World Cup LIVE: Portugal 2-0 Vietnam
09:44 , Jamie Braidwood
54 mins: CHANCE! Jessica Silva continues to dazzle. After a string of step-overs, Silva picks out a cross to the back post and finds Encarnação, but she can’t keep the volley down.
Silva then blasts over from the edge of the box.
Women’s World Cup LIVE: Portugal 2-0 Vietnam
09:35 , Jamie Braidwood
Back underway in Hamilton – as it stands, Vietnam will be unable to qualify for the knockout stages when they face Netherlands in their final group game.
HALF TIME! Women’s World Cup LIVE: Portugal 2-0 Vietnam
09:31 , Jamie Braidwood
(Getty Images)
(Getty Images)
HALF TIME! Women’s World Cup LIVE: Portugal 2-0 Vietnam
09:20 , Jamie Braidwood
A brilliant first half from Portugal sees them take a commanding advantage into the break. Jessica Silva threatened from the opning moments, but it was Telma Encarnação and Francisca Nazareth who struck to give Portugal the advantage.
Women’s World Cup LIVE: Portugal 2-0 Vietnam
09:18 , Jamie Braidwood
45 mins: Vietnam are growing into this a bit more now before half time. Thuy forces Portugal goalkeeper Patrícia Morais into her first save.
Women’s World Cup LIVE: Portugal 2-0 Vietnam
09:11 , Jamie Braidwood
38 mins: Portugal manage to slow the game down, before suddenly sprining back into life as they release Joana Marchão down the left. Her cross searches for Jessica Silva at the near post, but the star is unable to flick her effort towards goal.
Women’s World Cup LIVE: Portugal 2-0 Vietnam
09:00 , Jamie Braidwood
28 mins: Encarnação is denied a second at the near post after another first-time effort.
Here’s Nazareth’s goal – which is unlikely to be the last. How worried are the USA getting as they watch this?
GOAL! Women’s World Cup LIVE: Portugal 2-0 Vietnam
08:54 , Jamie Braidwood
Like a hot knife through butter – that is so, so easy for Portugal but it’s another well-taken goal as they double their lead against Vietnam!
Encarnação brings the ball down and slips a lovely pass through the legs of a Vietnam defender, releasing Francisca Nazareth. The 20-year-old then remains calm as finishes past the Vietnam goalkeeper – Portugal just cutting through them in the blink of an eye.
Women’s World Cup LIVE: Portugal 1-0 Vietnam
08:45 , Jamie Braidwood
13 mins: I think the odds of a Jessica Silva goal at some point are looking pretty good – Vietnam are playing so open and it’s giving Portugal a lot of space to run into.
Here’s the goal from Encarnação.
GOAL! Women’s World Cup LIVE: Portugal 1-0 Vietnam
08:40 , Jamie Braidwood
Portugal take the lead! What a lovely goal this is. Silva finds the run of wing back Lúcia Alves on the overlap, and the cross back inside is perfect. It allows Telma Encarnação, who times her run well, to guide the first-time finish into the net. That’s a historic moment for Portugal, and there could be plenty more to come based on how this match has started.
(Getty Images)
Women’s World Cup LIVE: Portugal 0-0 Vietnam
08:36 , Jamie Braidwood
4 mins: CHANCE! What an opportunity for Jessica Silva! It’s lovely play from Portugal, slicing Vietnam open, and it releases Silva through on goal. She can’t quite get the shot from out from here feet and it’s sliced wide – but if Portugal continue like that you would imagine the chances keep coming.
And there’s another chance! Silva plays it inside to Francisca Nazareth, who spins her defender but fires over!
Women’s World Cup LIVE: Portugal vs Vietnam
08:30 , Jamie Braidwood
Two emotional anthems before we kick-off as Portugal and Vietnam go in search of their first World Cup goal and, from there, points.
A defeat would spell the end of their World Cup campaign.
(Getty Images)
Women’s World Cup LIVE: Portugal vs Vietnam
08:15 , Jamie Braidwood
Portugal were beaten 1-0 by the Netherlands in their opening match – their star player is Jessica Silva. Vietnam lost 3-0 to the USA, in a scoreline that was closer than many expected.
Both teams are playing at the Women’s World Cup for the first time.
(REUTERS)
Women’s World Cup LIVE: USA 1-1 Netherlands
08:11 , Jamie Braidwood
This morning’s 1-1 draw between the USA and Netherlands leaves both teams on four points at the top of Group E.
It means if either Portugal or Vietnam were to lose in this morning’s upcoming clash they would be out of the World Cup.
Things would get very interesting if Portugal were to win – they face the USA on the final day, and a place in the last-16 would be up for grabs between them.
Women’s World Cup LIVE: USA 1-1 Netherlands
07:54 , Jamie Braidwood
USA goalscorer Lindsey Horan: “I think the first half, we could be a little disappointed in how we played but I think we fixed things right away.
“The pressure that we got on, the amount of chances and opportunities that came from it – I’m so proud of the team and their response.”
(Getty Images)
Women’s World Cup LIVE: USA 1-1 Netherlands
07:41 , Jamie Braidwood
Vlatko Andonovski said the United States have yet to produce their best performance at the Women’s World Cup after the 1-1 draw against the Netherlands.
“(In) the first half, we allowed them to take control of the tempo and slow down the tempo a lot more than we wanted,” Andonovski said.
“This team has not had time together. I mean, the first time we see this team together is in game one and now we saw them again in game two. So in game three, we expect it to grow from there.
“As hopefully we move forward, we’re going to see better and better.”
ICYMI: Horan’s heroic header saves US from rare loss
06:00 , Josh Marcus
The US women’s national team hasn’t lost a match since 2011, but as today’s matchup between the Netherlands and the Stars and Stripes progressed, it looked like the Dutch might finally humble one of football’s great international dynasties.
That is, until Lindsey Horan got fired up.
The midfielder and US captain endured a tough tackle from Daniëlle van de Donk, then seemed to surge off the adrenaline from the collision, getting in then Dutch player’s face then racing into the box on a corner to flick in a header from a swinging Rose Lavelle cross.
Watch the goal below, which cemented the match as a 1-1 draw.
When does the USA play next in Women’s World Cup?
05:15 , Josh Marcus
The US will have nearly a week to rest and reset after a somewhat disappointing draw against the Netherlands.
The next opponents of the Stars and Stripes will be Portugal, and the match will take place on 1 August at 7pm local time in Auckland.
Portugal lost their opening match against the Netherlands 0-1.
Can the US still win its group after World Cup draw with Netherlands?
04:32 , Josh Marcus
Despite finishing with a draw against the Netherlands in Wellington, the US national team can still win Group E.
Right now, the Stars and Stripes top the table, with a plus-two goal differential over the Oranje.
If both teams continue on their current form, the winner of Group E could come down to who scores the most goals on the final group match day.
Regardless, if the Netherlands and the US both win, they’ll both still advance to the next round, as the top two finishers are the ones to move on.
PHOTOS: US claws back a draw after early goal from Netherlands
04:23 , Josh Marcus
In the second half, the US were able to fight their way back to a 1-1 draw against the Netherlands, after the Dutch went ahead with a smooth early goal.
Here are some of the key moments.
A tough tackle from Danielle Van De Donk of the Netherlands helped change the tone of the match. Lindsey Horan of the USA responded first by angrily shoving her Lyon teammate, then scoring an eventual equaliser (Getty Images)
Lindsey Horan flicks in a header from a Rose Lavelle corner to make the match 1-1 (Getty Images)
Substitute Rose Lavelle made an immediate impact in the second half, sending in numerous threatening crosses, including the ball that brought the US level (Getty Images)
Netherlands and US end group stage showdown with a 1-1 tie
04:05 , Josh Marcus
The score sheet doesn’t tell the full story.
The much-watched group stage matchup between the US and the Netherlands ended in a 1-1 tie, but what finished as a low-scoring draw was in fact quite a lively game with plenty of chances on both sides.
The Dutch dominated the first half, scoring early and so thoroughly controlling posession at times in the minutes that followed that they looked like they were on the training ground warming up, not playing in the World Cup.
The Americans found their fight in the second half, though, with Lindsey Horan finally getting a US ball into the goal, after countless corners failed to deliver.
From there, the US looked a bit more like its world number-one self, outclassing the Dutch defence with attack after attack.
However, US boss Vlatko Andonovsk will likely head to the locker room feeling his side could’ve done better. The Americans could’ve easily had two or three more goals but just couldn’t seem to find that final bit of quality to score.
Lavelle and van de Donk collide heads
03:59 , Josh Marcus
A nasty head-to-head collision between Rose Lavelle and Daniëlle van de Donk sent the Dutch mid down to the pitch, where she could be seen gripping her head with a spot of blood on one hand.
After a few minutes of treatment, play resumed and both players made it back into the game.
Last-minute tackle from Ertz saves the US
03:43 , Josh Marcus
The US squad owes Julie Ertz a big thank-you.
In the 79th minute, the midfielder flew in with a last-minute challenge to stop another surgical build-up from the Dutch, who were able to play a wonderful cutback ball right across the US box.
For now, things remain 1-1.
So close! US goal called offside
03:38 , Josh Marcus
It was finally starting to gel for the US.
Following a crucial header goal from Lindsey Horan, the Stars and Stripes quickly got a second attempt in the goal, only for it to be called offside.
(Getty Images)
It’s raining corners for the US
03:32 , Josh Marcus
Here’s a notable stat: eight to zero.
That’s the advantage the US has had so far when it comes to corners.
After a first half full of missed opportunities from set pieces, the Americans were finally able to convert via a header from Lindsey Horan.
WATCH: Corner header from Horan brings US back into the game
03:27 , Josh Marcus
Lindsey Horan has delivered for the US.
After a shaky first 55 minutes or so for the Americans, the midfielder was able to sneak a header past the Dutch defence off a corner.
Watch her goal below.
Lindsey Horan brings US level with near-post header
03:24 , Josh Marcus
Lindsey Horan is showing why she’s a captain on the US squad.
The US mid, fresh off a very tough tackle from Daniëlle van de Donk that paused play, just scored a flicked header from a corner to bring the Stars and Stripes level with the Dutch.
Play resumes as Dutch lead USWNT
03:12 , Josh Marcus
The second half is upon us.
The US, who looked awfuly flat-footed in the first period against the Dutch, are likely hoping for an injection of pace from sub Rose Lavelle, who came on at half.
PICTURES: Netherlands looking strong as they lead US 1-0
03:08 , Josh Marcus
The Netherlands made a confident showing in the first half, racing to a 1-0 advantage on a Jill Roord goal, then defending their lead with solid defence and snappy midfield transitions.
Here are some of the best photos of the action so far.
Jill Roord got the Dutch off to an early lead with a goal in the 16th minute (Getty Images)
So far, Sophia Smith hasn’t been the same kind of attacking force for the US she was in their opener with Vietnam, where she scored twice (Getty Images)
Vlatko Andonovski, head coach of the US squad, will need to come up with some answers for the flowing Dutch attack and tight defence so far (Getty Images)
US heads to halftime trailing Dutch
02:54 , Josh Marcus
Watching the first half of today’s match alone, you wouldn’t know that the US national team is ranked number one in the world.
The Dutch have looked calm and collected so far, outrunning, out-passing, and thus far, outscoring the Stars and Stripes at every turn.
The Oranje have had nearly twice the number of passes so far, and used this measured, precision attacking style to convert one of their few chances so far on goal. The Americans are still showing a bit of attacking quality – Alex Morgan, Crystal Dunn, and Sophia Smith have all had glimmers of potential in the Dutch half – but so far the US hasn’t been able to convert any of its numerous chances for a goal.
We’ll surely see some adjustments, and a renewed fighting spirit, in the second half.
What you need to know about Megan Rapinoe
02:45 , Josh Marcus
Megan Rapinoe is one of the veterans anchoring the American squad.
Here’s what you need to know about the decorated winger’s legacy on and off the pitch.
Joe Sommerlad has the story for The Independent.
Megan Rapinoe: The legendary US attacker and LGBT+ rights activist in profile
Quality, not quantity leading the day for the Dutch
02:43 , Josh Marcus
The US has five times the number of attempts on goal as the Netherlands so far, but the Dutch are still setting the tone, making the most of one of their two shots on target to take an early lead in the 16th minute.
The Oranje have been moving well throughout the midfield, dictating the pace with 54 per cent posession so far.
Play pauses as trainers examine van der Gragt
02:38 , Josh Marcus
Play has been paused for a moment, as the Dutch squad signalled for the trainers to take a look at Stefanie van der Gragt.
The brief reprieve was a welcome one for the US.
The Dutch have been mixing solid defence and quick counterattacks to get the better of the Stars and Stripes so far.
Dutch defence holding strong against US set pieces
02:34 , Josh Marcus
The US has a roster full of lethal scorers, but the Dutch defence has been doing a solid job so far.
They just fended off a long set piece from the US, then a corner, where the ball bounced dangerously around the box before the Oranje were able to clear.
WATCH: US down 1-0 as Netherlands score on the counterattack
02:23 , Josh Marcus
Against the early run of play, the Netherlands are up 1-0.
Here’s how they scored their first goal.
Click here to read the full blog on The Independent’s website
