England U20 Women progress to World Cup semis

England U20s qualified for their first ever World Cup semi-final today as they beat the Netherlands 2-1.

It wasn't all plain sailing, and the Young Lionesses had to work hard to keep the Netherlands side pinned back.

After 12 minutes, Victoria Pelova was able to fire the Netherlands ahead. England's attack broke down, and after Finnigan dealt with the initial cross from the counter, Pelova was able to slot home the rebound.

It didn't take long for England to get back in the game. Manchester City star Georgia Stanway breaking into the box, turning inside and firing home to bring England level just eight minutes later.

It was Stanway who also scored England's second, bringing her tally at the competition up to 5 goals in 4 games.

Hemp was able to find Stanway in the box. She was able to skip round the keeper, and get a shot away which was cleared off the line.

Stanway made no mistakes with the rebound though, and buried it deep in the back of the Netherland's net.

England still looked dangerous during the second half, and despite pressure from the Netherlands, they were able to hold onto the 2-1 lead.

August 17, 2018

Stanway and Hemp were superb for the Young Lionesses, and the former was rewarded with the 'Dare to Shine' Player of the match award for the second time at the tournament.

England will now go on to face Japan in the semi finals, after they were able to beat Germany 3-1.