Sweden joy, England make move: Women’s World Cup power rankings
1) Sweden (up 6)
An energetic first-half performance stunned the in-form Japan to see Sweden through to their second successive World Cup semi-final. In contrast to their game against USA, they pressed the Nadeshiko high, allowing them little time on the ball. Eight of their 11 goals have been from set pieces.
2) Australia (up 1)
The Matildas captured the eyes of a nation as they saw off France 7-6 on penalties to make history. France put them under pressure but their defence held strong throughout. The goalkeeper Mackenzie Arnold was the hero despite missing her own spot-kick as Australia came through a 20-penalty shootout.
3) England (up 5)
England were much improved in their 2-1 defeat of Colombia despite the absence of the suspended Lauren James. Lauren Hemp shone in attack, with her bursts of pace troubling the opposition. Their defence was tested at times by a lively Colombian front four but remained resilient. Good practice in front of a partisan crowd.
4) Spain (up 2)
La Roja needed extra time to see off the Netherlands despite a match in which they controlled possession and chances created. They had little bite in front of goal, however, with only eight attempts on target. The 19-yearold Salma Paralluelo produced a fine finish to score the winner, her first World Cup goal.
5) Colombia (down 1)
Their captivating World Cup run ended in heartache in Sydney, just falling short against an experienced England. They brought joy on and off the pitch as they made their first quarter-final. The future is bright with the teenager Linda Caicedo one of the World Cup’s breakout stars.
6) Netherlands (down 1)
A failure to take their chances is what cost Andries Jonker’s team in the end. Lineth Beerensteyn’s lack of clinical finishing proved a source of frustration after Stefanie van der Gragt had pulled them back level. It was redemption for the retiring Dutch defender whose handball had conceded the penalty that put Spain in front.
7) Japan (down 6)
The Nadeshiko were perhaps favourites to take the title after waltzing through their first four matches in style. But Futoshi Ikeda’s side were outsmarted tactically by Sweden. Whether we see the captain, Saki Kumagai, at another World Cup remains to be seen but this is a team for the future. Hinata Miyazawa remains top goalscorer.
8) France (down 6)
There is no doubt that things have improved since Hervé Renard’s arrival in March. Les Bleues simmered throughout the tournament without hitting the heights their talent suggests and went home empty-handed once more. This may well be the last time Wendie Renard and Eugénie Le Sommer are seen on this stage.