England advanced to the Women’s World Cup quarterfinals by a hair’s breadth on Monday, defeating Nigeria on penalties after being outplayed by the Super Falcons all evening in Brisbane.
Lauren James’ silly red card made their task even more difficult, but they showed steely grit in the shootout to avoid a painful last-16 exit.
Nigeria settled well in the first half and came dangerously near to breaking the deadlock when Ashleigh Plumptre hit the crossbar with a strong strike, forcing a brilliant save out of Mary Earps moments later.
But England had chances as well, most notably when Alessia Russo forced a superb stop from Chiamaka Nnadozie, who then had to deny Rachel Daly from a corner. When a penalty was awarded to Rasheedat Ajibade for a push on Daly, the Lionesses thought they had their best chance yet to break the tie, but it was overruled.
But it was the African team that looked the most likely to win, with England riding their luck until a moment of craziness from James reduced them to ten. Chelsea’s star stepped on Michelle Alozie and was sent off in the 87th minute.
Fortunately for them, Nigeria were unable to capitalize, and it was Chloe Kelly who emerged victorious in the penalty shootout, blasting home her spot-kick to put the Lionesses through.
