England win shootout to scrape into...

From page 21 has formed since Wiegman's arrival in September 2021. in escaping a group containing Olympic champions Canada, co-hosts Australia and plucky debutants, the Republic of Ireland.

James will miss the quarter-finals and could face a longer suspension should FIFA deem it worthy.

Her loss will certainly be felt given she is England's leading scorer at the tournament, having also popped up to provide the winner in the 1-0 victory over Denmark in the second group game.

"I don't know what my heart rate is, I just know I'm 10 years' older," said manager Wiegman.

"I was not worried. It was a really intense game. Nigeria has done really well in the group stages so we were not underestimating them at all and they showed what a good team they were.

He said victory over European champions England could have had "significant implications" for the development of women's football in Nigeria, but they can exit the tournament with their heads held high.

They more than matched England and carried momentum going into extra time, but just could not provide the ruthlessness that was needed.

"We can be and should be one of the top teams in the world. I think we have shown we're capable of playing with anybody."

England captain Millie Bright made numerous last-ditch blocks, Earps faced more shots in the first half than in any other game under Wiegman and Nigeria rattled the Lionesses.

All signs had started to point to a historic Nigeria victory - they were seeking to become the first African nation to win a knockout tieand even a corner from Stanway floated out of play in a rare break-up of Nigeria possession late in the second half.

"We had trouble getting out of their press. We could do a little better but I also think we should give them credit."

"[The players] have been fantastic all tournament," said Waldrum. "We've played four matches, including against the Olympic gold medalists and the European champions and had clean sheets in those games.

Nigeria leave with heads held high

Nigeria manager Randy Waldrum had already praised his side's efforts

"I'm so proud of them. They have such a bright future. The players came together in an unbelievable way. They just played their hearts out and I couldn't be more proud of them.