England, Netherlands turn on style as USA struggles continue
Sports Desk, Aug 1 (EFE).- European champions England thrashed China 6-1 on Tuesday, while the Netherlands smashed seven goals past Vietnam as the European powerhouses sealed their spots in the Round of 16.
England, who had labored to 1-0 wins in their opening two matches, came to life in their Group D decider as they tore into an overmatched China side.
The English were ahead after just four minutes thanks to Alessia Russo’s tidy finish after Lauren James had set her up.
James, who has emerged as one of England’s leading stars, dominated the match, scoring two goals herself while laying on another two assists. She also had a third strike ruled out by the VAR.
The result means England move on to play Nigeria in the Round of 16, while China, who got on the scoresheet with a second half penalty from Wang, head for the exit after picking up just one win in the group.
Group D’s second place was taken by Denmark, who qualified for the knockout round for the first time in 28 years after sealing a 2-0 win against Haiti.
Meanwhile the Netherlands, finalists in 2019, underlined their credentials with a thumping 7-0 victory over Vietnam.
A completely one-sided affair was lit up by two sensational long-distance strikes from Esmee Brugts either side of half-time, with midfielder Jill Roord also bagging a brace.
The win means the Dutch top Group E ahead of tournament favorites and reigning champions USA, who were held to a goalless draw against Portugal.
After drawing 1-1 against the Netherlands last week, the USA were hoping to seal their spot in the next round with a convincing win against a Portuguese team at their first World Cup.
But despite dominating possession and creating several good chances in the first half, the Americans failed to break the deadlock, and were lucky to escape with the draw after Ana Capeta struck the post in stoppage time as underdogs Portugal were denied a famous victory.
The USA will face Group G’s winners – almost certainly Sweden – while the Netherlands will take on one of Argentina, Italy or South Africa in the Round of 16. EFE
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