Unstoppable Lauren James leads Lionesses to victory, securing Women's World Cup last 16 as Keira Walsh faces injury setback
Lauren James' sensational goal propels England to victory, putting them one step closer to the Women's World Cup last 16 Despite Keira Walsh's unfortunate injury, the Lionesses continue to shine Exciting times ahead! #WWC2023
England secured a 1-0 victory against Denmark in the World Cup, courtesy of Lauren James' sensational goal in her maiden start. This win places England on the edge of reaching the last 16, but there might be unfortunate news as Keira Walsh, the midfielder, had to be carried off on a stretcher due to a knee injury. The inclusion of Chelsea's James in the starting lineup was refreshing, especially following a disappointing performance in England's previous match against Haiti. She impressively scored from a distance of 20 yards (6), instantly making her presence felt on the global stage.
England's joy was short-lived when their influential midfielder Walsh suffered a knee injury, forcing her to leave the field on a stretcher just after the thirty-minute mark. Offering insight after the game, England manager Sarina Wiegman conveyed uncertainty about Keira's injury, stating that it appeared serious considering the stretcher usage. However, she admitted to having no information on the extent of the injury or if Walsh would undergo a scan.
They did an excellent job of recovering after the injury, although it is certainly unpleasant to witness a player on the field needing to be carried off on a stretcher. During the second half, we had to work hard to secure the victory, and that's precisely what we did.
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Walsh immediately indicated to the sideline that she could not carry on after getting injured towards the end of the first half. Prior to Walsh's injury, the Lionesses were already being penalized by Denmark due to their careless mistakes, and came close to conceding a late equalizer.
Denmark secured a late victory against China in their first match, and came close to scoring at a similar moment in Sydney. Unfortunately, Amalie Vangsgaard's header struck the post and went wide, requiring Mary Earps to once again ensure England's triumph.
Having accumulated six points, the Lionesses are currently leading Group D, despite their unimpressive performances. Denmark holds onto the second position. In order to secure a spot in the last 16, England either requires Haiti to defeat China in their upcoming group game at 12pm (UK time), or a draw.
How England toiled to another World Cup win
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Lauren James scored her first major tournament goal on her full World Cup debut
James showed why there was so much demand for her to start in just six minutes. Starting from the left, she swiftly crossed the top of the area and unleashed an extraordinary strike from 20 yards that powered into the far corner.
England maintained their momentum with multiple opportunities. Chloe Kelly aimed for a breathtaking overhead kick, but it missed the target. James then had two consecutive attempts, but both shots were directly aimed at Denmark goalkeeper Lene Christensen.
Denmark had a chance to equalize due to England's sloppy play, which gave them multiple opportunities. Rikke Madsen made a powerful shot towards the goal, but it went across the face of the goal. Janni Thomsen also attempted a shot, but it went over the bar. In addition, Pernille Harder's shot was caught easily by Earps.
The game became much more difficult for England when Walsh had to be stretchered off the field. She injured her knee after catching her foot in the turf and immediately signaled to be substituted. After receiving treatment from the England medical staff, she was carried off the pitch, and Laura Coombs took her place.
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England had a more subdued first half, but performed strongly after the break. Unfortunately, their cutting edge was once again missing as promising attacks broke down before posing a threat to the Danish defense.
Denmark could have equalized as well, as the Lionesses had a moment of relaxed play. However, Kathrine Kuhl's shot was low and easily saved by Earps. In another opportunity, Lucy Bronze's header went over the crossbar after a series of England corners. Alessia Russo had a quiet game, but managed to strike the side of the net with her shot.
Earps continued to protect England's lead, making a fantastic save in the 73rd minute. Katrine Veje attempted a direct corner similar to Katie McCabe's style, but the goalkeeper managed to push the ball away. Denmark had a chance to score late in the game as Vangsgaard headed towards the goal, but it hit the post instead of finding the back of the net.
James: World Cup goal a dream come true
England goalscorer Lauren James provides her thoughts on BBC Sport:"It was a dream come true, one I've been thinking about, but most importantly we got the win on the day.
"I had a thought [it was going in] but the moment it hit the net, it was a relief.
I'm composed both on and off the field and I strive to embody that in my performance - it proved beneficial.
What's next?
England's Group D campaign culminates on August 1 in Adelaide, with a kick-off scheduled for 12pm. Similarly, Denmark will face Haiti in Perth at the same time.What is the schedule?
The group stage is currently underway and will continue for two weeks until August 3. The teams that emerge as winners and runners-up from each group will advance to the round of 16, which is scheduled to occur between August 5 and August 8.Following that, the quarter-finals will take place on August 11 and 12 in Wellington, Auckland, Brisbane, and Sydney.
The first semi-final is scheduled for August 15 in Auckland, while the other semi-final will take place on August 16 at the Accor Stadium in Sydney. The final will be held at the same venue on August 20. Preceding the final, a third-place play-off is set to be played on August 19 in Brisbane.
