England progressed to the World Cup last-16 as group winners with a 6-1 victory over China.
Goals from Alessia Russo, Lauren Hemp, Chloe Kelly, Rachel Daly and two from Lauren James saw the Lionesses to victory, ensuring Sarina Wiegman’s side took maximum points from their three group fixtures.
The result sets up a last-16 tie with Group B runners up Nigeria in Brisbane on August 7.
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England made three changes to the side that had beaten Denmark last time out, with Lauren Hemp, Katie Zelem and Jess Carter coming into the starting XI in place of Ella Toone, Chloe Kelly and the injured Keira Walsh as Wiegman switched to a back three — the first time the Lionesses have lined up in this formation at a major tournament under the Dutch manager.
Russo opened the scoring inside five minutes with a close-range finish following a Hemp cross from the left. Hemp then doubled England’s advantage before the half-hour mark, latching onto James’ pass and stroking home.
James added a spectacular third and VAR denied the Chelsea forward a similarly stunning second before the half-time whistle.
Into the knockouts we go.
The hard work continues 💪 pic.twitter.com/ncShviUZGb
— Lionesses (@Lionesses) August 1, 2023
Wang Shuang pulled one back…
