WWC: England thrash China 6-1 to set up last 16 clash with Falcons

The Lionness of England will play Nigeria’s Super Falcons in the second round of the ongoing Women’s World Cup after finishing top of Group D.

The English defeated China 6-1 in their final group game on Tuesday at the Hindmarsh Stadium, Australia.

Lauren James scored two and assisted three goals as the European champions produced a performance contrasting the drab of their first two games.

Alessia Russo, Lauren Hemp, Chloe Kelly and Rachel Daly got one goal each in routing a previously solid Chinese side.

The Lioness top Group D with nine points and will face Nigeria in the round of 16 clash on Monday.

In the other group game, Denmark defeated Haiti 2-0 to secure the second-place finish in Group D and set up a second-round contest against Australia.

In the earlier game, the Netherlands thumped Vietnam 7-0 to win Group E.

Esmee Brugts and Jill Roord scored braces, while Lieke Martens, Katja Snoeijs and Danielle van de Donk wrapped up the historic victory for the Oranje girls.

The US narrowly progressed to the next round after managing a goalless draw with Portugal.