England’s Lionesses take early lead against Japan as they look to top their group in Women’s World Cup match while Scotland battle to stay in the competition
- Manchester City’s Ellen White slotted a composed finish in the 14th minute
- The Lionesses are bidding to finish top of Group D having won two other games
- Scotland face Argentina in other Group D match with slim hopes of progressing
England have taken an early lead against Japan at the Women’s World Cup as they bid to finish top of their group.
The Lionesses, who have already qualified for the last 16 of the tournament, are currently playing the Japanese at the Allianz Riviera in Nice.
Manchester City forward Ellen White coolly dinked the ball over Japanese keeper Ayaka Yamashita in the 14th minute to give England the early advantage.
Ellen White calmly slotted the ball into the far corner of the net after breaking into the Japan box
Ellen White of England celebrates after scoring in the 14th minute against Japan in Nice
England’s Demi Stokes dribbles the ball past Japan’s Rikako Kobayashi and Kumi Yokoyama
If they avoid defeat against Japan they will face one of the best third-place finishers in the last 16.
Having already beaten Scotland and Argentina, England start their third and final group game on Wednesday two points above second-placed Japan, the 2011 world champions.
In the other game in Group D, Scotland face Argentina in a game the Scots need to have a chance of progressing to the last 16 as one of the best third-placed sides.
England and Japan line up at the Allianz Riviera in Nice just before kick off this evening
England fans painted with the cross of St George on their faces cheer their team on as the game kicks off
A trio of England fans smile for the camera as they attend the final group D game in Nice this evening