England vs Denmark LIVE: Women’s World Cup result and Keira Walsh injury updates

England continued their Women’s World Cup campaign with a narrow 1-0 win over Denmark in their crunch Group D clash in Sydney but suffered a worrying injury to Keira Walsh.

In positive news for the Lionesses, Lauren James’s sublime first-half finish ultimately proved enough to edge to victory. But a squad already decimated by injury – with Leah Williamson, Beth Mead and Fran Kirby missing the tournament – endured another, possibly devastating, blow as midfielder Walsh got her boot stuck in the turf during the first half, twisted her knee while falling to the ground and was stretchered off.

The Lionesses still have work to do to reach the last-16 after China overcame a first-half red card to defeat Haiti 1-0. England will top Group D and reach the knockout stages as long as they avoid defeat to the Asian champions on Tuesday.

Follow the latest World Cup scores, updates and news in today’s live blog:

Women’s World Cup LIVE: Latest updates

The Women’s World Cup continues in Australia and New Zealand
As Sarina Wiegman solves one problem - a bigger one presents itself
England lose the one player who is impossible to replace
Lionesses beat Denmark 1-0 but lose Keira Walsh to a worrying injury
FULL-TIME! England 1-0 Denmark
86’ - POST! Vangsgaard’s header almost earns Denmark a late equaliser (ENG 1-0 DEN)
36’ - Keira Walsh subbed off in the first half due to injury (ENG 1-0 DEN)
6’ - GOAL! James curls in a stunning opening goal (ENG 1-0 DEN)
China defeat Haiti in Group D clash stop England qualifying for the last-16 today
Argentina fight back to draw 2-2 with South Africa

England 1 - 0 Denmark

Women’s World Cup 2023: England edge past Denmark to lead Group D

16:10 , Mike Jones

England captain Millie Bright spoke to BBC Radio 5 Live after the win over Denmark.

“It was a pretty exciting game, pretty end-to-end, but we’re pleased we’ve got in this position.” She said, “Two games, two wins, two clean sheets.

“Some really good parts of both games but I think tonight mentality and character was a big part of the second half especially. First half [was] really good, really good goal from LJ [Lauren James] but yeah, overall, really happy to be in the position we are in.

“Performance always plays a part but ultimately the tournament is about winning. It’s about getting the job done. We have proved that in both games that we are prepared to do absolutely anything to get that win and that clean sheet.

“I’d take that any day, a clean sheet. It’s the second game in and you want to build your momentum. I would take the last two performances any day and I’m really proud of them.”

Women’s World Cup 2023: England edge past Denmark to lead Group D

16:01 , Mike Jones

Here’s BBC commentator and former England goalkeeper Karen Bardsley speaking about Keira Walsh. Speaking on BBC Radio 5 Live she said: “How do you fill the shoes of someone like Keira Walsh?

“She is essentially the link. She brings others into play and [chances that] typically end in a goal or a shot on target come through Keira Walsh.

“We saw in the Euros Georgia Stanway playing alongside her at times and thoughts are going to be with her [Walsh] and make sure she’s OK.

“But the thoughts will at some point turn to who is going to play that role and who will play it in the best way possible.

“What we have seen with this team, though, is that they will do whatever it takes for each other and when that time comes if it’s going to be Georgia Stanway who plays there. There’s a lot of versatility in this squad.”

Women’s World Cup 2023: England edge past Denmark to lead Group D

15:54 , Mike Jones

Daly was also asked what the feelings were when Keira Walsh was subbed off on a stretcher. She answered: “It’s not nice to see anyone go off injured but Keira is Keira and she is an integral part of the team.

“I am really, really, really hoping with everything that it isn’t anything too serious. She is a special player and a special person. Let’s hope it isn’t as bad as it looked and it was only a precaution.”

Women’s World Cup 2023: England edge past Denmark to lead Group D

15:47 , Mike Jones

Here’s a bit of reaction from England’s Rachel Daly who spoke about Lauren James’ goal and playing as a left-back.

“I’m going to claim a little bit of credit because I said you’ve got to cut in.” She said when explaining what it was like to see James open the scoring.

“We know she’s incredible. She brings a different presence to the team and a load of ability. I’m buzzing for her. She is so special and you can see what she can do in tight spaces.”

When asked if she was disappointed to play at left-back and not as the main striker Daly replied: “Not at all. I’m going to say what I always say. It is an honour to be on this pitch with this team.

“It’s a little different from where I have been playing but not too far from where I was playing last year.”

England lose the one player who is impossible to replace

15:40 , Mike Jones

“I’ve done my knee.”

Keira Walsh knew it immediately, and then came the words to devastate the Lionesses and England’s chances of winning the World Cup as well. That’s how significant a blow losing Walsh is for any amount of time, let alone the tournament and potentially beyond. If England had one irreplaceable player, it would be Walsh.

If Sarina Wiegman could have chosen any star to protect for the rest of the World Cup, it would have been their holding midfielder and pass master.

The Lionesses now face a terrible wait to discover the extent of Walsh’s injury. It overshadowed England’s win over Denmark, and threatens to hang over the rest of their tournament in Australia.

After losing Leah Williamson and Beth Mead to ACL injuries, it looks like England have suffered another, a cruel twist that came after Wiegman made two changes to her team and the Lionesses, for the first time this World Cup, looked to have clicked into gear.

Why Keira Walsh is irreplaceable for England

Women’s World Cup 2023: England edge past Denmark to lead Group D

15:30 , Mike Jones

Former England forward Ellen White explains how big of a loss Keira Walsh will be if she’s not able to play again in the World Cup. Speaking on BBC One after the game she said:

“[At the 2022 Euros] everything came through Keira. There wasn’t a Plan B.

“I dreaded to think of the idea of us ever losing her because she was one of our best players. Beth Mead was scoring all the goals but all of our play came through Keira.

“She was the key cog, everything moved through her. I just don’t know who England are going to have now in that six [defensive midfield position], or even potential double six, role.”

Women’s World Cup 2023: England edge past Denmark to lead Group D

15:22 , Mike Jones

Women’s World Cup 2023: England 1-0 Denmark

Sarina Wiegman was also asked about the extent of Keira Walsh’s injury but the Lionesses’ boss hadn’t had time to fully assess it.

What can you tell us about Keira Walsh’s situation? She was asked before replying: “Nothing.

“It did look serious so if you can’t walk off the pitch it’s serious. I don’t know, we’ve just finished the game. [She’ll probably have a scan.] But I haven’t heard anything yet.

“During the game you have to move on and now it is time to look at how she is and the next steps.

“I think they did a great job. The team really picked it up but it is not nice to see a player on the pitch [like that]. She goes off and that’s not nice. I think the team picked up really well and we had to fight. That’s what we did.”

Women’s World Cup 2023: England edge past Denmark to lead Group D

15:14 , Mike Jones

Here’s the initial reaction from England manager Sarina Wiegman who said: “We started well, we played well and scored the goal and then we had a little stage in the first half [where] we lost balls we didn’t have to lose.

“Then we had the horrible moment with Keira. Second half was a fight and the team showed we adapted to the new situation and we had to fight to win. I am very proud of the team.

“For me it doesn’t matter who scores the goals. They played well, they started well and yes, LJ [Lauren James] scored a beautiful goal.”

Women’s World Cup 2023: England edge past Denmark to lead Group D

15:07 , Mike Jones

Former England midfielder Fara Williams, and current BBC pundit, praised the performance of Lauren James saying: “Lauren James was the only bright spark for England today.

“She kicked things off with the early goal which really set us on our way [to the win].

“After the initial 20-minute period, the only quality from then on really came from Lauren James. We just need to get players around her.

“For someone so young to control the rhythm of the team is impressive, some of the more experienced players need to take a leaf out of her book.”

Women’s World Cup latest odds

15:00 , Mike Jones

The USA are the reigning World Cup champions and remain favourites to regain their title for a third tournament in a row after winning the 2015 and 2019 editions.

However, the group stages have thrown up a few alternatives that could challenge them. England, as current European champions, were well backed ahead of the tournament but their opening two performances haven’t been convincing though the odds remain short that the Lionesses will go far.

The two big names impressing in Australia are Spain and Germany. The Spaniards hammered Zambia 5-0 in their opening match while the Germans defeated Morocco 6-0.

Couple this with the USA being far from their best and this World Cup could yield a surprise winner.

Here are the latest odds for the next fixtures as well as the outright tournament winner:

Women's World Cup Odds 2023: Latest Odds Compared

Women’s World Cup 2023: England edge past Denmark to lead Group D

14:58 , Mike Jones

England’s matchwinner Lauren James gave her reaction to the BBC after the match saying: “Yeah definitely [it was a great feeling to score].

“It was a dream and something I’ve been thinking about but most importantly I’m happy to help us win.

“I kind of had a thought and then as soon as it hit the net it was just relief.

“They [her teammates] were just really happy for me and they said it before the game they had a good feeling about me. I am happy to have good people around me.

“I am calm all around the pitch. I am happy to bring that on the pitch.”

Women’s World Cup 2023: England edge past Denmark to lead Group D

14:50 , Mike Jones

Arsenal manager Jonas Eidevall sums up that game for England while speaking on the BBC. He said: “It’s really important to focus on the positives.

“The first 20-25 minutes were really, really strong. That period showed what this England team is capable of. If they’ve done it for that amount of time, they can repeat it for longer in the next game.

“Also, they kept another clean sheet, they scored a goal off the back of the way they set up. Playing without Keira Walsh was always going to be difficult and of course [her injury] puts a dampener on things in the end.”

BBC pundit slams Women’s World Cup pitches after Keira Walsh injury – ‘It’s not good enough’

14:43 , Mike Jones

The state of the pitches at the Women’s World Cup have been heavily criticised after England star Keira Walsh suffered what appeared to be a serious knee injury during the Lionesses’ game against Denmark.

Midfielder Walsh got her boot stuck in the turf during the first half at Allianz Stadium in Sydney and twisted her knee as she fell to the ground. The 26-year-old looked to be in serious pain and was eventually stretchered off, replaced by Laura Coombs.

The incident comes amid growing concern about the number of ACL tears in women’s football with the likes of England captain Leah Williamson, winger Beth Mead, Netherlands superstar Vivianne Miedema, Canada forward Janine Beckie and USA’s rising Cat Macario just some of those missing the tournament with that specific injury.

BBC pundit slams World Cup pitches after Keira Walsh injury – ‘It’s not good enough’

Darts, colouring in and 1,000 bags of Yorkshire tea: Inside the Lionesses’ World Cup den

14:36 , Mike Jones

The central coast beaches of Terrigal are a far cry from the metropolitan hustle and bustle of nearby Sydney, but they provide a fitting “home away from home” for the Lionesses as they embark on their Women’s World Cup campaign.

This quiet town, about 51km (32 miles) north of Australia’s largest city, is an environment in which the team can free themselves from the stresses of a major tournament.

It’s the first time the FA have ever allowed the media access to an England base camp and Kay Cossington, the FA’s women’s technical director, and Anja van Ginhoven, England’s women’s general manager, are excited to reveal what they’ve delivered for the squad.

A private entrance to the hotel is adorned with the Three Lions crest, the staircase that leads you towards the team’s home sits underneath a red and white balloon arch, while the stairs themselves bear phrases to drive home the motivation: “Our England, our family, bonded by pride,” reads one.

Lionesses’ den: Inside England’s 2023 World Cup base in Terrigal

England sweat on Keira Walsh fitness amid avalanche of ACL injuries impacting Women’s World Cup

14:27 , Mike Jones

ACL injuries have already influenced the Women’s World Cup with the contenders weakened after a number of key players were ruled out in the build-up to the tournament in Australia and New Zealand.

Players are asking why the injury has been so prevalent in women’s football, including glaring omissions of Netherlands forward Vivianne Miedema, England’s Leah Williamson and Beth Mead, Canada’s Janine Beckie and rising USA star Catarina Macario in this tournament.

And now the Lionesses will be forced to sweat on the health of Keira Walsh, who suffered a knee injury to be forced off against Denmark. The Barcelona midfielder was taken off on a stretcher, replaced by Laura Coombs, and appeared distraught, covering her face with her hands.

England sweat on Keira Walsh fitness after ACL injuries impact World Cup

Who are the BBC World Cup commentators?

14:19 , Mike Jones

The Women’s World Cup is set to be one of the biggest sporting events this summer, with an unmissable lineup that is due to kick off in Australia and New Zealand on Thursday 20th July.

Last year, England brought home the trophy after its win against Germany in a sold-out Wembley arena.

To give viewers the best experience in this year’s fixtures, household names such as Gabby Logan will be at the forefront of the BBC coverage, while Laura Woods will take on the lead for ITV’s coverage.

Who will be presenting the coverage on TV?

Who are the BBC World Cup commentators? Full list of pundits

Why did England wear black armbands today?

14:13 , Mike Jones

England are back in action with their second Women’s World Cup 2023 against Denmark in Sydney.

Sarina Wiegman made two changes from the side that started in the 1-0 victory over Haiti.

Lauren James and Rachel Daly started at the Allianz Stadium, with the former curling a beautiful opener for the first Lionesses goal since the Finalissima against Brazil.

England’s players could be seen wearing black armbands for the Group D match.

Why are England wearing black armbands at Women’s World Cup?

Women’s World Cup 2023: England edge past Denmark to lead Group D

14:06 , Mike Jones

That victory for China means that England haven’t yet qualified for the next stage of the tournament. They have six points from six but could still go out if they lose to China and Denmark heavily defeat Haiti in the final group games.

However, England only need a point to ensure they finish top of the group and should have enough quality to overcome China too.

Women’s World Cup 2023: China 1-0 Haiti

14:04 , Mike Jones

Full-time!

What a finish to this game. Haiti had a couple of penalty appeals turned down and one overturned by a VAR review. It seems as though everything went against them and not even 13 minutes of stoppage time could spare them from losing a second consecutive World Cup game 1-0.

China got lucky. They move up to three points and still have the chance to reach the knockout rounds.

England manager Sarina Wiegman reacts to ‘serious’ Keira Walsh injury

13:52 , Mike Jones

England manager Sarina Wiegman confirmed Keira Walsh suffered a “serious” injury against Denmark after the key Lionesses midfielder was stretchered off during the first half of their Women’s World Cup win.

Walsh was left on crutches after her studs caught on the turf and she went down holding her right knee, an injury which is likely to rule the Barcelona star out for the rest of the World Cup.

The 26-year-old was England’s player of the match when the Lionesses won the Euros last summer and is pivotal to the team’s chances of winning the World Cup in Australia.

England manager Sarina Wiegman reacts to ‘serious’ Keira Walsh injury

Women’s World Cup 2023: China 1-0 Haiti

13:46 , Mike Jones

Just a few minutes remaining in this clash between China and Haiti. China still lead thanks to the penalty but there’s an urgency to Haiti now.

If they lose, they’re out of the World Cup.

As Sarina Wiegman solves one problem - a bigger one presents itself

13:42 , Mike Jones

You could say England rode their luck, except that’s only because it keeps going against them. It feels the fate of this entire campaign is that just as Sarina Wiegman solves one problem - in this case through the genius of Lauren James - a bigger one presents itself.

The European champions, at last, looked exactly that as well as potential world champions as the England manager got her system right to secure this 1-0 win over Denmark, only to quickly lose their one irreplaceable player. It had such a huge effect, not least on poor Keira Walsh herself.

Wiegman and the rest of England will now wait for news of what this injury is, as she clearly motioned to her knee. Until then, the question will weigh there over whether you can win a World Cup without Walsh, Leah Williamson and Beth Mead.

As Sarina Wiegman solves one problem - a bigger one presents itself

‘Matter of when not whether’ UK hosts Women’s World Cup – sports minister

13:36 , Mike Jones

Sports minister Stuart Andrew says “it is a matter of when not whether” the UK will submit a bid to host the Women’s World Cup.

The 2023 World Cup is currently being co-hosted by Australia and New Zealand and FIFA is scheduled to announce the hosts for the 2027 finals in May next year.

Andrew told the PA news agency: “I would really be looking forward to the day when we can host a World Cup. It’s a matter of when not whether.”

Four bids remain in the race to host the 2027 World Cup – a joint bid from Germany, the Netherlands and Belgium, a second joint bid from the USA and Mexico, plus separate bids from South Africa and Brazil.

‘Matter of when not whether’ UK hosts Women’s World Cup – sports minister

Women’s World Cup 2023: GOAL! China 1-0 Haiti (Shuang, 74’)⚽️

13:34 , Mike Jones

74 mins: Wang Shuang steps up for China and belts the ball into the back of the net. China take the lead and as it stands, they are moving level on points with Denmark in Group D.

Haiti have 15 minutes to keep themselves in the World Cup. They need to score.

Women’s World Cup 2023: China 0-0 Haiti

13:32 , Mike Jones

Penalty to China!

There’s drama to come in this match as a VAR check comes to the rescue for the Chinese. A late lunge from Ruthny Mathurin is mistimed and China have the chance to take the lead.

Who do England women play next?

13:32 , Mike Jones

Lauren James’ maiden World Cup goal was enough for England to maintain their 100 per cent record in Group D with a 1-0 victory over Denmark at the Sydney Football Stadium.

The Chelsea forward struck the sixth-minute opener, but England suffered a major blow after 38 minutes when midfielder Keira Walsh was stretchered off with an apparent knee injury and later appeared on the touchline using crutches.

James’ goal was England’s first from open play since April’s Finalissima at Wembley, while Denmark came within inches of a last-gasp leveller when Amalie Vangsgaard’s header clipped the post.

Here’s everything you need to know.

When do England women play next? World Cup fixtures and route to the final

Women’s World Cup 2023: China 0-0 Haiti

13:27 , Mike Jones

Over an hour has been played in this Group D encounter and still the deadlock hasn’t been broken. Haiti are the more aggressive side now and look set to earn themselves a World Cup victory, if they can get one past goalkeeper Yu Zhu.

At the minute though, China are holding firm.

Who could replace Keira Walsh?

13:25 , Mike Jones

Though the extent of the knee injury she picked up against Denmark isn’t yet known, Keira Walsh seems unlikely to play more of a part in England’s World Cup campaign.

Who can replace her in the midfield?

No-one

Perhaps this is the most drastic measure but Keira Walsh’s ability in the middle of the pitch is so crucial to the way England play that replacing her may be impossible.

Instead, Sarina Wiegman could decide to change up her formation and fall back on the defensive back-ups of Jess Carter, Esme Morgan, Niamh Charles and Lotte Wubben-Moy. Alex Greenwood could be moved back to left-back with Rachel Daly pushed up top alongside Alessia Russo.

Alternatively, a back three with Lucy Bronze and Rachel Daly as wingbacks would ease the pressure on the midfield and would allow the likes of Georgia Stanway and Laura Coombs to play their natural attacking game without the necessity to hang back to help out the centre-backs.

It would be a risky move in the middle of the tournament but if England have planned for a change then this may work out for them,

Who could replace Keira Walsh?

13:21 , Mike Jones

Though the extent of the knee injury she picked up against Denmark isn’t yet known, Keira Walsh seems unlikely to play more of a part in England’s World Cup campaign.

Who can replace her in the midfield?

Jordan Nobbs

Jordan Nobbs, an energetic box-to-box midfielder and former Arsenal captain, has had more than her fair share of bad luck in recent years and was forced to miss out on the 2019 World Cup, the 2020 Olympic Games and Euro 2022 because of knee and ankle injuries.

Even in spite of those heart-breaking setbacks, she has still notched up 71 appearances for her country and scored eight times, including a memorable long-range drive against Italy on her debut in the Cyprus Cup in March 2013.

Now 30, Nobbs will be relishing her chance to get out on the field at a major tournament once again and has the calm and experience to martial the Lionesses from the middle of the park, as Jill Scott was often called upon to do during difficult moments last summer.

Earlier this year she gave herself a new lease of life when she signed for Aston Villa, joining up with current England teammate and Rachel Daly, and scored a hat-trick in a 6-2 trouncing of Brighton, firmly re-establishing her credentials at the highest level.

Who could replace Keira Walsh?

13:17 , Mike Jones

Though the extent of the knee injury she picked up against Denmark isn’t yet known, Keira Walsh seems unlikely to play more of a part in England’s World Cup campaign.

Who can replace her in the midfield?

Katie Zelem

Manchester United captain Katie Zelem has represented England at all five youth levels, from the under-15s to the under-23s, but has struggled to break into the senior side’s midfield, where competition for places is fierce.

Zelem has established herself at the centre of the United’s midfield, a position she has gradually settled on after starting out as a winger, modelling herself on Fara Williams and Andres Iniesta. The Red Devils won the FA Women’s Championship in 2018/19 and she was named captain following the departure of Alex Greenwood.

Zelem’s talent and leadership is not in doubt but a reputation for picking up yellow cards may also not help her case.

Who could replace Keira Walsh?

13:13 , Mike Jones

Though the extent of the knee injury she picked up against Denmark isn’t yet known, Keira Walsh seems unlikely to play more of a part in England’s World Cup campaign.

Who can replace her in the midfield?

Laura Coombs

Before being called up by Sarina Wiegman for the Lionesses squad to take part in the Arnold Clark Cup earlier this year, defensive midfielder Laura Coombs had not played for her country since October 2015.

The manager was clearly persuaded to bring Coombs in from the international wilderness by her exceptional performances for Manchester City this season, watching her anchor a midfield that had seemingly been significantly weakened by the sales of Keira Walsh, Georgia Stanway and Caroline Weir the previous summer.

The oldest member of the 23-strong England World Cup squad at a stately 32, Coombs has a reputation among her teammates as a grafter who will bring plenty of experience to a youthful side, even though her time on the world stage has been somewhat limited thus far.

In Keira Walsh, England lose the one player who is impossible to replace

13:09 , Mike Jones

“I’ve done my knee.”

If Sarina Wiegman could have chosen any star to protect for the rest of the World Cup, it would have been their holding midfielder and pass master.

The Lionesses now face a terrible wait to discover the extent of Walsh’s injury. It overshadowed England’s win over Denmark, and threatens to hang over the rest of their tournament in Australia.

Why Keira Walsh is irreplaceable for England

Keira Walsh: England’s midfield star who broke the world transfer record for a female player

13:02 , Mike Jones

Despite being a Manchester City fan so committed to the club that she had pet goldfish named Shaun Goater and Nicolas Anelka as a child, Keira Walsh was also a keen student of “tiki-taka”-era Barcelona growing up in Rochdale, admiring the total control demonstrated by Pep Guardiola’s sides through elegant possession football.

These days, Pep is managing City and it is Walsh herself sitting at the heart of Barca’s midfield.

She made that move last summer for a world record fee after starring for the Lionesses at Euro 2022, pulling the strings at the centre of the park like another of her idols, David Silva, always knowing precisely when to play the killer pass.

Keira Walsh: England’s deep-lying playmaker in profile

Women’s World Cup 2023: England 1-0 Denmark

12:57 , Mike Jones

Lucy Bronze made her 15th start at the Women’s World Cup with only Jill Scott (19) making more starts for the Lionesses in the competition.

No player had more shots (four) or created more chances (three) than Bronze in the game against Denmark.

Women’s World Cup 2023: China 0-0 Haiti

12:54 , Mike Jones

Half-time!

The break arrives in Adelaide with the teams heading in all square. China have been unable to break through Haiti’s defence - a problem England also faced.

They’ve also been reduced to 10 players after Zhang Rui’s red card. It’s an uphill battle for them to stay in this tournament now.

Women’s World Cup 2023: England 1-0 Denmark

12:51 , Mike Jones

Chelsea right-back Reece James has tweeted about his sister’s performance during England’s victory over Denmark. Lauren James scored the only goal of the match, with a beltin’ strike, and Reece posted a photo of the two of them playing football as kids.

The caption was just one word - “Proud.”

Proud. pic.twitter.com/xaVKsoN1Zc
— Reece James (@ReeceJames) July 28, 2023

Women’s World Cup 2023: England 1-0 Denmark

12:48 , Mike Jones

More reaction from England boss Sarina Wiegman. She spoke about the Lionesses performance, Lauren James’ display and when to start planning for the game against China saying:

“The game against Denmark was different to the game against Haiti.

“Two totally different opponents and we started really well. We wanted to exploit the pockets and get in behind and that’s what we did really well. It was really moving and that looked really good and then after 25 minutes we lost the ball a couple of times when we shouldn’t and they had some counter-attacks.

“But still we looked really good and of course, when Keira got inured we needed to find our feet again. We really showed resilience then and then at the end Denmark start to force and we showed we can fight too. I am very proud of the team.

“I think we have a squad of 23 and we still have a very talented group, that’s what we showed. The environment is all new and the players playing for the first time they are now getting these experiences and that’s the same with LJ [Lauren James]. We are being careful with her too.

“Let’s see what the game tonight will bring us [to see if England qualify for the knockouts if China fail to beat Haiti]. We will review this match and then start talking about China.”

Women’s World Cup 2023: China 0-0 Haiti

12:44 , Mike Jones

With a couple of minutes left before half-time, Haiti get the ball in the back of the net only for it to be ruled out for offside!

China are holding their own with 10 players but it seems like a huge ask for them to win this game now. As it stands England will qualify for the last-16 if the game remains in a deadlock.

Women’s World Cup 2023: England 1-0 Denmark

12:43 , Mike Jones

England’s captain was also, understandably, asked about Keira Walsh’s injury.

“I’ve not spoken to her yet. I’m sure we will all be around her and we hope for the best in that situation.” Bright said, “It’s not nice to see anyone go off like that but as a player it’s really hard.

“You have a split-second when you have so many things in your head and you have to adapt and make changes.

“The first half that was what was the most different from the first game as it felt more fluid and we really found our rhythm. Anyone going off like that rocks the boat, but credit to the girls’ character and mentality, it’s massive.

“In tournament football you need character and you need mentality. It’s not going to be easy but we are prepared to keep playing, keep improving and give everything for the badge.”

Women’s World Cup 2023: China 0-0 Haiti

12:42 , Mike Jones

China need to defeat Haiti to stop England qualifying for the knockout rounds today and give themselves the best chance of reaching the last-16.

Things aren’t going their way though as Zhang Rui has been shown a straight red card for a studs showing tackle on Sherly Jeudy. The referee initially pulled out a yellow card but after VAR decision, it was upgraded to a red!

Women’s World Cup 2023: England 1-0 Denmark

12:40 , Mike Jones

Bright on Rachel Daly playing left-back: “She’s an unbelievable player. She will do anything for the team. She’s so versatile and we have a team full of very talented players who are willing to do anything. It is an honour to be a part of this squad.”

Women’s World Cup 2023: England 1-0 Denmark

12:37 , Mike Jones

England captain Millie Bright spoke to BBC Radio 5 Live after the win over Denmark.

“It was a pretty exciting game, pretty end-to-end, but we’re pleased we’ve got in this position.” She said, “Two games, two wins, two clean sheets.

“I’d take that any day, a clean sheet. It’s the second game in and you want to build your momentum. I would take the last two performances any day and I’m really proud of them.”

Women’s World Cup 2023: England 1-0 Denmark

12:34 , Mike Jones

As expected quite a lot of the reaction to England’s win over Denmark is centred on Keira Walsh’s injury. Former England defender, Gilly Flaherty, gave her thoughts on BBC Radio 5 Live saying:

“Keira Walsh looked straight over to the bench and says ‘it’s my knee, it’s my knee’. We all hope and pray it’s not that. I feel for England as well as she’s going to be such a big loss. She’s a player that goes under the radar.

“We talk about the goalscorers and the flair of the attack but for me, Keira Walsh dictates play for England. She controls the middle.

“Nine times out of ten when teams play against England they want to double up on Keira Walsh because she’s so effective and then defensively she’s that brick wall in front of the back four.

“I just worry because Laura Coombs and Georgia Stanway are both attacking players.”

Women’s World Cup 2023: England 1-0 Denmark

12:31 , Mike Jones

England have scored in each of their last 15 Women’s World Cup matches, equalling a competition record set by Norway between 1991-1999.

Women’s World Cup 2023: England 1-0 Denmark

12:28 , Mike Jones

Here’s BBC commentator and former England goalkeeper Karen Bardsley speaking about Keira Walsh. Speaking on BBC Radio 5 Live she said: “How do you fill the shoes of someone like Keira Walsh?

“She is essentially the link. She brings others into play and [chances that] typically end in a goal or a shot on target come through Keira Walsh.

“We saw in the Euros Georgia Stanway playing alongside her at times and thoughts are going to be with her [Walsh] and make sure she’s OK.

“But the thoughts will at some point turn to who is going to play that role and who will play it in the best way possible.

England manager Sarina Wiegman reacts to ‘serious’ Keira Walsh injury

12:25 , Mike Jones

Walsh was left on crutches after her studs caught on the turf and she went down holding her right knee, an injury which is likely to rule the Barcelona star out for the rest of the World Cup.

The 26-year-old was England’s player of the match when the Lionesses won the Euros last summer and is pivotal to the team’s chances of winning the World Cup in Australia.

England manager Sarina Wiegman reacts to ‘serious’ Keira Walsh injury

England find World Cup balance but more adversity leaves one defining question

12:22 , Mike Jones

England find balance but more adversity leaves one defining question

Women’s World Cup 2023: England 1-0 Denmark

12:19 , Mike Jones

Women’s World Cup 2023: England 1-0 Denmark

12:16 , Mike Jones

Here’s a bit of reaction from England’s Rachel Daly who spoke about Lauren James’ goal and playing as a left-back.

“I’m going to claim a little bit of credit because I said you’ve got to cut in.” She said when explaining what it was like to see James open the scoring.

“We know she’s incredible. She brings a different presence to the team and a load of ability. I’m buzzing for her. She is so special and you can see what she can do in tight spaces.”

“It’s a little different from where I have been playing but not too far from where I was playing last year.”

Women’s World Cup 2023: England 1-0 Denmark

12:13 , Mike Jones

Ellen White spoke about the role of Alessia Russo as England’s leading striker. She said: “Alessia Russo created a lot of chances herself today.

“She’s had to control the ball [with her back to goal], turn, spin - she hasn’t had any clear-cut opportunities in front of goal. The chance in the second half, she made it for herself by turning on a sixpence and driving at goal.

“Where she could have done better is to have gone across the keeper [with the shot], she needs to either work the keeper or find someone in the box.

“But again she didn’t have many chances at all throughout the game.”

Jonas Eidevall added: “If you see Lauren James’ goal, the positioning of Alessia Russo is what creates the space. Russo makes it difficult for the defender to step out there, giving James the chance to take the touch out of her feet and shoot.

“Too many times as a nine [centre-forward] you don’t get the credit for those positions, as the focus is on your on the ball actions.”

England lose the one player who is impossible to replace

12:10 , Mike Jones

“I’ve done my knee.”

If Sarina Wiegman could have chosen any star to protect for the rest of the World Cup, it would have been their holding midfielder and pass master.

The Lionesses now face a terrible wait to discover the extent of Walsh’s injury. It overshadowed England’s win over Denmark, and threatens to hang over the rest of their tournament in Australia.

England lose the one player who is impossible to replace

Women’s World Cup 2023: England 1-0 Denmark

12:07 , Mike Jones

Ellen White explains how big of a loss Keira Walsh will be if she’s not able to play again in the World Cup. Speaking on BBC One she said:

“[At the 2022 Euros] everything came through Keira. There wasn’t a Plan B.

“I dreaded to think of the idea of us ever losing her because she was one of our best players. Beth Mead was scoring all the goals but all of our play came through Keira.

“She was the key cog, everything moved through her. I just don’t know who England are going to have now in that six [defensive midfield position], or even potential double six, role.”

Women’s World Cup 2023: China 0-0 Haiti

12:05 , Mike Jones

The final match of today’s Women’s World Cup action is underway in Adelaide. China are taking on Haiti in Group D.

This one will have implications on England’s progress. If China fail to win then the Lionesses will secure a spot in the last-16 today. If China win then, England will need a point in their final group game to finish top of the group.

Five minutes has been played and the match remains goalless. It’s been an even contest in these opening stages with China edging possession.

Women’s World Cup 2023: England 1-0 Denmark

12:04 , Mike Jones

Sarina Wiegman was also asked about the extent of t Keira Walsh’s injury but the Lionesses’ boss hadn’t had time to fully assess it.

What can you tell us about Keira Walsh’s situation? She was asked before replying: “Nothing.

“It did look serious so if you can’t walk off the pitch it’s serious. I don’t know, we’ve just finished the game. [She’ll probably have a scan.] But I haven’t heard anything yet.

“During the game you have to move on and now it is time to look at how she is and the next steps.

Women’s World Cup 2023: England 1-0 Denmark

12:01 , Mike Jones

“Then we had the horrible moment with Keira. Second half was a fight and the team showed we adapted to the new situation and we had to fight to win. I am very proud of the team.

“For me it doesn’t matter who scores the goals. They played well, they started well and yes, LJ [Lauren James] scored a beautiful goal.”

Women’s World Cup 2023: England 1-0 Denmark

11:58 , Mike Jones

England have won their opening two games at a Women’s World Cup tournament for a second time, they also did so in 2019.

The Lionesses have kept the most clean sheets in the competition since the start of the 2019 edition - six in nine games.

Women’s World Cup 2023: England 1-0 Denmark

11:55 , Mike Jones

Former England midfielder Fara Williams, and current BBC pundit, praised the performance of Lauren James saying: “Lauren James was the only bright spark for England today.

“She kicked things off with the early goal which really set us on our way [to the win].

“After the initial 20-minute period, the only quality from then on really came from Lauren James. We just need to get players around her.

“For someone so young to control the rhythm of the team is impressive, some of the more experienced players need to take a leaf out of her book.”

Women’s World Cup 2023: England 1-0 Denmark

11:52 , Mike Jones

England’s matchwinner Lauren James gave her reaction to the BBC after the match saying: “Yeah definitely [it was a great feeling to score].

“It was a dream and something I’ve been thinking about but most importantly I’m happy to help us win.

“I kind of had a thought and then as soon as it hit the net it was just relief.

“They [her teammates] were just really happy for me and they said it before the game they had a good feeling about me. I am happy to have good people around me.

“I am calm all around the pitch. I am happy to bring that on the pitch.”

Women’s World Cup 2023: England 1-0 Denmark

11:49 , Mike Jones

The loss of Keira Walsh could potentially have massive complications for England.

Ellen White, who was a part of the Lionesses’ winning side at Euro 2022, admitted on BBC One that during that tournament there was no plan B for if Walsh wasn’t available.

Let’s hope that’s not the case this time around too as it seems unlikely that she’ll play in the next match and she could possibly be out of the entire World Cup.

Women’s World Cup 2023: England 1-0 Denmark

11:46 , Mike Jones

Arsenal manager Jonas Eidevall sums up that game for England while speaking on the BBC. He said: “It’s really important to focus on the positives.

Women’s World Cup 2023: England 1-0 Denmark

11:43 , Mike Jones

Here’s how things stand in Group D so far. England have won two out of two but they’re not through to the last 16 yet.

If China fail to beat Haiti in today’s final game, then the Lionesses will be through. If China do manage to win, then England will need a draw against them in the final group match to go through as group winners.

Women’s World Cup 2023: England 1-0 Denmark

11:40 , Mike Jones

Two 1-0 wins for England to kick off their World Cup campaign. The Lionesses are now on the verge of the knockout stages and their next goal will be to finish top of the table.

Dug deep to get all three points! 👏 pic.twitter.com/myRy3rz4F3
— Lionesses (@Lionesses) July 28, 2023

BBC pundit slams Women’s World Cup pitches after Keira Walsh injury – ‘It’s not good enough’

11:37 , Mike Jones

BBC pundit slams World Cup pitches after Keira Walsh injury – ‘It’s not good enough’

Women’s World Cup 2023: England 1-0 Denmark

11:34 , Mike Jones

After two wins from their opening two matches England will qualify for the knockout rounds if China fail to defeat Haiti later on today.

That Group D match kicks off at 12pm and it would be a huge boost for Sarina Wiegman if her team gets through before the final group game.

She can then use that match, against China, as a sounding board to work out different tactics in midfield as it seems Keira Walsh is unlikely to play any further part in the World Cup.

England sweat on Keira Walsh fitness amid avalanche of ACL injuries impacting Women’s World Cup

11:31 , Mike Jones

ACL injuries have already influenced the Women’s World Cup with the contenders weakened after a number of key players were ruled out in the build-up to the tournament in Australia and New Zealand.

England sweat on Keira Walsh fitness after ACL injuries impact World Cup

Women’s World Cup 2023: England 1-0 Denmark

11:28 , Mike Jones

‘Sweet Caroline’ blazes out of the stadium speakers as England anthem begins the celebrations following another well fought victory for the Lionesses.

It’s also another clean sheet for Mary Earps.

Women’s World Cup 2023: England 1-0 Denmark

11:25 , Mike Jones

Full-time!

90+4 mins: England hold on. They’ve edge past Denmark with a better performance but towards the end of the game they looked a touch weary and uncomfortable.

All that matters though is that England got the win. They’re two from two in the Group now and are on the path to the knockout rounds.

Lauren James’ first half goal is the difference but Sarina Wiegman will have concerns over the fitness of Keira Walsh.

Women’s World Cup 2023: England 1-0 Denmark

11:22 , Mike Jones

90 mins: There’s only four minutes of stoppage time to play. That could have been worse for England.

Denmark win a throw in that gets launched up the right wing. Lauren Hemp does well to get the ball to Rachel Daly who gives it to Alex Greenwood to clear.

Her clearance doesn’t get very far and Katrine Veje is allowed time to whip the ball back into the box.

Mary Earps claims the ball and drops to her knees to smother it.

Women’s World Cup 2023: England 1-0 Denmark

11:20 , Mike Jones

89 mins: Denmark are the ones pushing hard to score right at the end of this match. England need to get through this match now but there’ll be a bunch of added time to come.

Women’s World Cup 2023: England 1-0 Denmark

11:18 , Mike Jones

86 mins: Post! England are given the clearest sign that this match is not over! Nicoline Sorensen collects the ball out on the left side of the pitch and is allowed to put in a simple cross when Lucy Bronze fails to close her down.

She finds Amalia Vangsgaard who belts a header to the far side and rattles the post!

Women’s World Cup 2023: England 1-0 Denmark

11:12 , Mike Jones

82 mins: Close! Lauren Hemp flies down the left wing and draws out a couple of defenders before laying the ball off to Rachel day.

Daly floats the ball into the box and finds Bethany England whose first touch is a headed effort that drops mere inches wide of the back post.

Women’s World Cup 2023: England 1-0 Denmark

11:10 , Mike Jones

80 mins: 10 minutes to play in this match. England look confident and composed. This will be a huge result for them if they can get over the line here.

Janni Thomsen is down after colliding with one of her own teammates. She took a knock to the chin and needs a bit of treatment from the physios.

Women’s World Cup 2023: England 1-0 Denmark

11:07 , Mike Jones

77 mins: Here we go.

Sarina Wiegman looks to her bench and makes a couple of substitutions. Alessia Russo and Ella Toone are off with Lauren Hemp and Bethany England brought on.

These closing minutes are the first for England in a major tournament. She’ll lead the line as Russo’s replacement.

Women’s World Cup 2023: England 1-0 Denmark

11:04 , Mike Jones

74 mins: Amalie Vangsgaard comes on for Denmark to replace Josefine Hasbo.

The Danes have a shot from range that Mary Earps pushes over the top to gift them a corner. Katrine Veje swings the ball into the middle but gets too much curl on the ball and lands it on top of the net.

Women’s World Cup 2023: England 1-0 Denmark

11:02 , Mike Jones

71 mins: Chance! Alessia Russo drops into the midfield and rolls off the shoulder of Simone Boye. She carries the ball into the box and lets fly from the right side.

The shot is a powerful one but Russo misses the target and it flies high and wide.

Women’s World Cup 2023: England 1-0 Denmark

11:01 , Mike Jones

69 mins: England seem to be hanging further back as the game goes on. They know they need to protect their lead but won’t want to sacrifice too much momentum to Denmark.

The Lionesses’ attacking play is their greatest quality and a second goal would give them a cushion.

Women’s World Cup 2023: England 1-0 Denmark

10:58 , Mike Jones

66 mins: Denmark win their first corner of the match which is whipped into the box by Janni Thomsen. Alex Greenwood leaps highest to nod the ball away but it’s recovered by Rikke Marie Madsen who initiates another attack for the Danes.

England have a bit of defending to do here.

Women’s World Cup 2023: England 1-0 Denmark

10:55 , Mike Jones

63 mins: England need to score again to settle this game down. At 1-0, Denmark won’t go away and any mistakes from the Lionesses could prove costly.

There’s a sense of anticipation hanging over the game as though a twist isn’t too far away.

Women’s World Cup 2023: England 1-0 Denmark

10:52 , Mike Jones

60 mins: An hour played and England’s lead remains in tact though the tempo has dropped slightly.

Laura Coombs slides a pass down the right side and wins a throw in that Lucy Bronze flings into the box. Alessia Russo rolls past Karen Holmgaard and keeps the ball in play with a cut back to the middle of the box.

The whistle goes as Denmark hook the ball clear as the offside flag is raised.

Women’s World Cup 2023: England 1-0 Denmark

10:48 , Mike Jones

56 mins: Lauren James does wonderfully on the left side to win England a corner. Georgia Stanway leaps over Karen Holmgaard to win the initial ball. It drops to Lucy Bronze who earns another corner.

Kathrine Kuhl guides this one behind before Alex Greenwood whips the cross onto the head of Lucy Bronze. Bronze has to compete with Pernille Harder so can’t direct her attempt and if flies wide of the nearest post.

Women’s World Cup 2023: England 1-0 Denmark

10:43 , Mike Jones

53 mins: Close! Janni Thomsen gets into space on the right wing for Denmark and England fail to close her down. She knocks a simple pass into the box for Kathrine Kuhl who prods a shot at goal.

It’s softly hit and allows Mary Earps time to shuffle across and smother the ball before it crosses the line.

Women’s World Cup 2023: England 1-0 Denmark

10:42 , Mike Jones

50 mins: There’s a nervous moment for England as Millie Bright under hits a pass to centre-back partner Alex Greenwood. Rikke Marie Madsen intercepts the ball but a strong lunging tackle from Greenwood eases the pressure on the Lionesses.

Bright takes over and sends the ball wide to Lucy Bronze in space.

Women’s World Cup 2023: England 1-0 Denmark

10:38 , Mike Jones

47 mins: Chloe Kelly wins the Lionesses an early corner and delivers it onto the head of Alessia Russo. The forward can’t get the ball under control and Stine Ballisager boots it behind for another set piece.

Alex Greenwood takes this one and picks out Lucy Bronze who knocks the ball down. It comes to Ella Toone but she pokes her effort over the crossbar.

Women’s World Cup 2023: England 1-0 Denmark

10:36 , Mike Jones

Second half!

England get the match restarted in Sydney. There’s been no further changes from Sarina Wiegman at the break but this is a big 45 minutes for the Lionesses.

Georgia Stanway and Laura Coombs have big roles to play in the midfield now.

Women’s World Cup 2023: England 1-0 Denmark

10:34 , Mike Jones

The BBC pundits have been talking about that injury to Keira Walsh. Arsenal women’s head coach, Jonas Eidevall believes the pitch could be to blame saying:

“It's a danger to player welfare to have such a dry pitch. It's not good enough. I'm a big advocate of watering the pitches, it makes the ball go faster and stops situations like this.”

Meanwhile ex-England striker Ellen White added: "I'm devastated for her to be honest. She's [Walsh] been one of the best if not the best player for England. She knew it didn't look good. She'll be a big miss. Laura [Coombs] has come in, I'm devastated for her."

Women’s World Cup 2023: England 1-0 Denmark

10:32 , Mike Jones

At 21 years, 302 days old, Lauren James is the Lionesses second-youngest scorer at the Women’s World Cup behind only Jill Scott vs Argentina in 2007 (20 years, 227 days).

Women’s World Cup 2023: England 1-0 Denmark

10:27 , Mike Jones

Before Walsh’s injury, England got off to the perfect start. Lauren James drifted in from the left and curled a lovely finish into the bottom corner.

Women’s World Cup 2023: England 1-0 Denmark

10:23 , Mike Jones

Georgia Stanway and Lucy Bronze were smiling with Keira Walsh as she was taken off the pitch. If anything, that’s a sign that the injury may not be as bad as initially feared for the midfielder.

If she’s done her ACL though, then her World Cup is over. We’ll have to wait to hear tp what extent the injury is.

Women’s World Cup 2023: England 1-0 Denmark

10:20 , Mike Jones

Half-time!

45+4 mins: England go into the break with a slender lead over Denmark. Lauren James’ opener was a belter and for the first quarter of an hour the Lionesses were fantastic.

Denmark fought back into the match and challenged the goal a couple of times before Keira Walsh injured her knee and needed to be stretchered off.

Laura Coombs was brought on a started well but England will need to centre themselves and come out flying in the second half.

Women’s World Cup 2023: England 1-0 Denmark

10:16 , Mike Jones

45 mins: Madsen delivers a cross into the England box and looks for Pernille Harder. Rachel Daly beats her to the ball but the two clash and Daly stays down after the collision.

There’s four minutes of added time to play in this half.

Women’s World Cup 2023: England 1-0 Denmark

10:13 , Mike Jones

41 mins: Laura Coombs plays in the number 10 role for her club, Manchester City, but she’s slotting in alongside Georgia Stanway today.

England will be hoping to get to half-time with their lead in tact. They’ll need a reset after that injury to Keira Walsh.

Women’s World Cup 2023: England 1-0 Denmark

10:10 , Mike Jones

38 mins: There’s always a moment of panic when a female footballer injures their knee. ACL injuries are common and they take a long time to recover from.

Hopefully Keira Walsh hasn’t picked up such a bad injury but she’ll play no further part in today’s game. Laura Coombs replaces her as Walsh is taken off on the stretcher.

Women’s World Cup 2023: England 1-0 Denmark

10:06 , Mike Jones

36 mins: Keira Walsh lunges for the ball in an effort to intercept a pass. She jars her knee as she slides across the turf and immediately signals to the England bench.

As the physios come on for a check, she says ‘I’ve done my knee’ and things don’t look great for the midfielder. This would be a huge blow for England.

The stretcher is being brought out for her.

Women’s World Cup 2023: England 1-0 Denmark

10:04 , Mike Jones

33 mins: Millie Bright threads a long pass up the pitch and finds Chloe Kelly. Kelly’s first touch is a tad heavier buy Lucy Bronze helps her out and picks out Alessia Russo.

Russo gives the ball to Lauren James who attempts to get Ella Toone into the box but her forward pass is cut out and cleared away. Nice play from England though.

Women’s World Cup 2023: England 1-0 Denmark

10:00 , Mike Jones

30 mins: Chance! Lucy Bronze gives the ball away high up the pitch and puts on the burners to get back to defend. Denmark send the ball straight up to Pernille Harder on the left wing.

She drives forward and cuts inside of the covering Millie Bright. Harder runs into the box and shoots but Mary Earps has it covered in goal.

England’s defence still looks shaky despite the change in personnel for this match.

Women’s World Cup 2023: England 1-0 Denmark

09:58 , Mike Jones

28 mins: There are a few mistakes creeping into England’s play. Alex Greenwood in particular just needs to regain her composure.

A diagonal ball comes across from the left and Greenwood lets it run through. She doesn’t seem aware of Thomsen coming in behind her and the Danish forward takes possession.

Rachel Daly sprints back to help out and forces Thomsen into the right side of the box where the attacker lifts a shot over the crossbar.

These are all signs that Denmark will fight to get themselves back in this game.

Women’s World Cup 2023: England 1-0 Denmark

09:55 , Mike Jones

25 mins: Chance! That’s a huge moment for Denmark. England give the ball away sloppily and take their time getting back to defend. Janni Thomsen is given the ball and slips it into the box for Rikke Marie Madsen.

Madsen turns past Alex Greenwood before blazing a shot across the face of goal. Mary Earps is beaten but luckily for England the ball fizzes wide of the far post.

Women’s World Cup 2023: England 1-0 Denmark

09:53 , Mike Jones

England look so much more balanced - could be a long game for Denmark.
— Miguel Delaney (@MiguelDelaney) July 28, 2023

Women’s World Cup 2023: England 1-0 Denmark

09:52 , Mike Jones

22 mins: Shot! Ella Toone flicks a pass over the top of Rikke Sevecke and picks out Lauren James on the left side. James takes the ball into the box and drills a low effort towards the near post but Lene Christensen keeps it out.

England don’t let up though. They give the ball to Lucy Bronze on the right and she swings in a cross. James and Sevecke tussle near the back post as the ball drops onto them.

It hits James on the shin and bounces softly to the goalkeeper.

Women’s World Cup 2023: England 1-0 Denmark

09:50 , Mike Jones

19 mins: England are forcing Denmark so deep. Alessia Russo is making runs into all sides of the box and Keira Walsh is switching the play with ease.

Millie Bright steps forward to help out Georgia Stanway and comes away with the ball. She threads a decent pass into the penalty area but Simone Boye shoulder Russo away from the ball and marshalls it out of play.

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