Friday 14 June 2019, 16:27

Azzurre, Lionesses qualify as Nadeshiko sink Scots

  • Italy and England qualify with wins over Jamaica, Argentina respectively

  • Japan boost their chances with a 2-1 win over Scotland

  • Reaction and more: #JPNSCO, #JAMITA and #ENGARG Live Blogs

One quarter of the last 16 line-up is now known after Italy and England joined France and Germany in sealing their places. Le Azzurre secured their spot with a thumping, Cristiana Girelli-inspired demolition of Jamaica, while the Lionesses eventually overcame Argentina and the seemingly-unbeatable Vanina Correa.

Japan, meanwhile, looked back to their old, slick selves in the first half of a 2-1 win over Scotland. That result leaves the Nadeshiko well placed to advance, and means Scotland and Argentina's Paris clash is now a must-win for both sides.

Japan 2-1 Scotland, Group D, Rennes, 15:00

Team reporter analysis

Ai Yoshiizumi (JPN)

The entire Japan team contributed in attack and defence. It was a game where the best qualities of the team came to the fore. They came under pressure in the second half, so there's still room to improve before the England match. But there were a lot of good aspects such as young Jun Endo's performance and Rikako Kobayashi's return from injury. This young team will now be able to pack a lot of confidence into their luggage ahead of the move to Nice.

Aileen Larkin (SCO) It was a disappointing day for Scotland in Rennes. They never really got into their flow, as Japan's speed and technical ability dictated the game and left the Scots looking discombobulated. However, Shelley Kerr's side once again improved significantly as the second half progressed, just as they had against England, and scored a superb goal through Lana Clelland. Kerr suggested they will be quick to brush off today's disappointment, given that a positive result could still result in qualification for the last 16.

Jamaica 0-5 Italy

Team reporter analysis

Kayon Davis (JAM) When the 53rd-ranked team in the world takes on the 15th, an uphill battle is only to be expected. And that’s exactly how this game played out. Defensively Jamaica were shaky, while the midfield failed to track back and make positive connections with the forwards. So far, head coach Menzies has used 17 of his 20 outfield players and he has yet to find the right formation or combination of players to bridge that gap with the higher-ranked sides.

Sonja Nikcevic (ITA) Italy promised they would go into this match fully concentrated, not underestimating their opponents, and they were more than true to their word. As concentrated in defence as they have been in attack, they didn't allow Jamaica's speed and energy to get to them. A Girelli hat-trick that started after a penalty repeat and an Aurora Galli brace made the difference on the scoresheet, but every single player on the pitch were deserving of top marks.

England 1-0 Argentina

Team reporter analysis

Laure James (ENG)

England wanted a comprehensive test of their patience and ability to handle frustrating game situations, and they got that against a relentless and determined Argentina side. The game will have given Phil Neville plenty to ponder in terms of how to improve ahead of Japan, with ruthlessness in front of goal an obvious missing ingredient. And while England came away with the three points, Vanina Correa's display will live long among the Group D highlights.

Diego Zandrino (ARG)

Argentina were outplayed by England from the start but stayed in the game well into the second half thanks to a brilliant performance by goalkeeper Correa. Again though, La Albiceleste failed to produce any notable attacking opportunities, something that will need to change against Scotland in a match that will decide their future in the tournament.

Next up

15 June

Netherlands-Cameroon, Group E, Valenciennes, 15:00 Canada-New Zealand, Group E, Grenoble, 21:00

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