The first round of knockout stage matches are underway as the Netherlands beat South Africa 2-0 to progress and the USA lose to Sweden 5-4 on penalties
An unpredictable and unprecedented group stage Down Under has given way to the knockout rounds with plenty more drama and high stakes in store.
Spain and Japan became the first two teams to book themselves berths in the Women’s World Cup quarter-finals following their victories on Saturday against Switzerland and Norway respectively.
The Netherlands were next to book their spot in the quarter-finals in the early hours of Sunday. Goals from Jill Roord and Lineth Beerensteyn ensured a win over history-makers South Africa.
The USA and Sweden game was goalless after 120 minutes and penalties were needed to separate the two teams. Megan Rapinoe, Sophia Smith and Kelly O’Hara missed their spot-kicks and Sweden progressed after a 5-4 win in the shootout.