Women’s World Cup roundup: Germany and US through to semi-finals
A weakened United States was still too strong for China during Friday's (June 26) quarter-final at the Women's World Cup.
They shrugged off the suspension of two key players to beat China 1-0.
The Americans wasted a host of chances against a young, defensively-minded Chinese side and had to wait until the 51st minute to take the lead through a fine header by captain Carli Lloyd.
The US started without suspended first-choice midfielders Lauren Holiday and Megan Rapinoe but had little trouble maintaining their record of reaching the semi-final of every World Cup.
The Americans, criticised for some sluggish play earlier in the tournament, looked sharper from the start and only some wayward finishing prevented them scoring several goals.
Ali Krieger also hit the post with a long drive in the 73rd minute.
Their win sets up a tantalising semi-final match against Germany who had beaten France on penalties in an earlier match on the same day.
Germany beat France in a penalty shootout after their thrilling quarter-final ended 1-1 after extra-time.
Louisa Necib, dubbed the "Female Zidane," had put France ahead in the 64th minute.
But Germany equalised in the 84th when Celia Sasic converted a penalty after French defender Amel Majri handled inside the box in the 84th min.
The Germans triumphed 5-4 in the shootout after Claire Lavogez, chosen as the fifth kicker for France, saw her low shot saved by Germany goalkeeper Nadine Angerer.
USA and Germany will go head-to-head in their semi-final will on Tuesday (June 30).
The remaining quarter-finals matches will be played today (June 27).
Australia will take on Japan while England will go up against hosts Canada.
The winners will play their semi-final on Wednesday (July 1).
Source: AFP, Reuters, Vine, Twitter
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