Britain ladies confront the most prominent match in their history when they tackle Canada for a spot in the World Cup semi-finals on Saturday night.
Mark Sampson’s Lionesses have officially made history with their first ever World Cup knockout win against Norway in the last 16, yet now anticipate a significantly harder match against the hosts in Vancouver.
The match, which commences at 7:30 p.m Eastern time, will be England’s most troublesome test yet, yet they go into the tie on a high after three wins in their initial four matches.
After a frustrating opening defeat by France in Moncton, England went ahead to beat Mexico 2-1 before goals from Karen Carney and Fara Williams guaranteed triumph over Colombia in their final group game.
Britain advanced as runners-up, setting up a tie against Norway in the last 16. They went a goal down in Ottowa, yet captain Steph Houghton was on focus to tie not long after.
Not content with a draw, defender Lucy Bronze – who has drawn applause for some fine exhibitions in the competition so far – scored with a shocking exertion from 25 yards to send England through.
Has Canada are positioned eighth on the planet – two spots behind England on FIFA ranking – yet have the benefit of home backing for the match in Vancouver.
Sampson’s side have gone more than 2,000 miles west from their group base for the match, while Canada played their last 16 match in the same stadium.
Canada accomplished less points than England amid their Group A crusade, yet figured out how to advance as champs. They beat China in their first game, before drawing with New Zealand and the Netherlands in their last two.
In the last 16, the hosts confronted 19th-positioned Switzerland, triumphing 1-0 thanks to a goal from Josee Belanger to set up their quarter-final face off against England.
To add some multifaceted nature to the account, Canada are coached by an Englishman – John Herdman. The Geordie, who harbors any expectations of one day dealing with his dearest Newcastle United, will rather be attempting to secure triumph against his country to take Canada through to the semi-finals.
Vegas Coverage prediction : England 0 – 1 Canada