White leads Team GB past Japan and into Olympics quarter-finals

Team GB got their second win in as many games thanks to White's header just 16 minutes from time. The Aston Villa striker has netted every single goal in Great Britain's group campaign so far, which sees them sit top of Group E with qualification to the next round guaranteed.

Despite the lack of fans in the stadium, Japan appeared to benefit from the home advantage as they were the quickest out the blocks and just about edged the first half. That said, their efforts were mainly limited to long range efforts that didn't overly threaten Roebuck in the GB goal. Tanaka came closest in the first period but her attempt flashed narrowly wide of the post.

Japan started the second half in the same vein, but it would be Team GB who would have the better of the opportunities. Houghton struck over with a powerful volley after pinball in the box from the corner, before Parris failed to bend one in with her cross-come-shot just three minutes later. The game looked set to peter out to a goalless draw, but on 74 minutes Ellen White arrived.

It was Bronze's cross from the right that spelled danger for Japan, struck with bend and height that tempted keeper Yamashita to come rushing off her line in an attempt to punch. White was alert and her movement swift, darting in ahead of defender and goalkeeper to plant a firm header into the empty net.

 

July 24, 2021

Team GB were rarely threatened after that point and nearly made it two after Weir's long range free-kick went inches over the bar just minutes from full-time. The whistle eventually did blow, cueing the celebrations from a Women's GB side who are playing in just their second Olympics in the country's history.

Lack of experience or not, Team GB are certainly taking this tournament by storm. Their next match is against second-placed Canada on July 27, which they will go into with the confidence of having already secured qualification to the quarter-finals.

 

July 24, 2021