WWC: Spain reach semi-final as Japan crash out

Spain’s La Roja have qualified for the Women’s World Cup semi-final for the first time ever.

Spain defeated the Netherlands 2-1 on Friday to reach the last four of the tournament held in Australia and New Zealand.

The Spaniards continued their impressive form that saw them thrash Switzerland 5-1 in the round of 16.

The Netherlands had defeated the US, the reigning champions, in the second round but could not put the Spanish team to the sword.

The first goal in the game came in the 80th minute through a Mariona Caldentey penalty.

The Netherlands looked dead and buried until deep into stoppage time when Stefanie van der Gragt scored the equaliser.

The game extended into extra time where Salma Paralluelo scored the winner for Spain in the 111th minute.

The 19-year-old became Spain’s youngest scorer at a Women’s World Cup.

In the second game of the day, Sweden stunned the high-flying Japan 2-1 to progress to the semis.

The Nadeshiko were among the favourites to win the competition after blitzing through the group stages with a huge goal return, but they left their brilliance too late against the Swedish.

Sweden’s Amanda Ilestedt and Filippa Angeldahl struck the Japanese, with Honoka Hayashi pulling one back in the 87th minute.

Despite the late rally, Sweden held on to a famous victory.

Spain will face Sweden in the semi-finals on Tuesday.