NEWS… BUT NOT AS YOU KNOW IT
England recovered from Lauren James’ reckless red card to move one step closer to Women’s World Cup glory by beating Nigeria in a tense penalty shootout.
The Lionesses feared becoming the latest big name to crash out of the tournament as Nigeria largely dominated the last-16 clash in Brisbane and were spurred on by James’ dismissal for violent conduct late on.
But Sarina Wiegman’s side showed the resolve and character that helped them become European champions last year to keep Nigeria at bay in extra-time before winning the shootout 4-2.
England were again fearing the worst when Georgia Stanway blasted the first penalty wide, but Nigeria failed to hit the target with their first two spot-kicks before Chloe Kelly scored to send the Lionesses through.