Spain vs Switzerland LIVE: Women’s World Cup result and final score as Aitana Bonmati stars

Aitana Bonmati scored a stunning brace as Spain reached the Women’s World Cup quarter-finals for the first time with a commanding 5-1 win over Switzerland.

With Spain under pressure to respond to their 4-0 defeat to Japan in the group stages, Bonmati scored the opening goal within six minutes after a lovely turn and finish in the box, only for Switzerland to receive a gift of an equaliser as Laia Codina scored an own goal from 40 yards.

But Spain’s response was emphatic, with Alba Redondo restoring Spain’s lead within five minutes, before Bonmati scored her second thanks to another sharp turn and finish in the box. With Spain cruising, Codina made amends for her earlier error with Spain’s fourth, scrambled in from a corner.

Switzerland had kept three clean sheets in the group stage, but Jenni Hermoso made it five in the second half with a curling finish. Spain did not call upon Alexia Putellas, who was dropped from the starting line-up, until the 77th minute but it did not take away from an improved performance after their dismal display against Japan.

Spain will now play either the Netherlands or South Africa in the quarter-finals, while the action continues with Japan vs Norway in the last-16.

Women’s World Cup LIVE: Spain vs Switzerland

• FT! Spain thrash Switzerland 5-1 to reach the World Cup quarter-finals

• 68’ GOAL! Hermoso makes it five as Spain cruise into next round (SWI 1-5 ESP)

• 44’ GOAL! Switzerland fall apart as Codina makes ammends (SWI 1-4 ESP)

• 36’ GOAL! Bonmati scores her second with another brilliant turn (SWI 1 -3 ESP)

• 17’ GOAL! Redondo arrives at back post as Spain retake the lead (SWI 1-2 ESP)

• 12’ OWN GOAL! Switzerland level after bizarre Spain backpass (SWI 1-1 ESP)

• 5' GOAL! Bonmati turns and fires Spain into early lead (SWI 0-1 ESP)

• Spain make five changes as Alexia Putellas drops to bench

Switzerland 1 - 5 Spain

Women’s World Cup LIVE

12:36 , Jamie Braidwood

England midfielder Katie Zelem admits it was bittersweet to make her World Cup debut knowing close friend Keira Walsh’s injury was the reason why.

Manchester United captain Zelem started in England’s 6-1 victory over China, while Walsh has stepped up her recovery from the knee problem she sustained in the 1-0 victory over Denmark.

She said: “I think it’s a tough situation, to be honest, especially when Keira is one of my closest friends in the team. I think you never want to be playing on someone else’s misfortune, but luckily we found out that Keira’s injury obviously wasn’t too long-term or serious, so that is brilliant news.”

Women’s World Cup LIVE

11:38 , Jamie Braidwood

United States coach Vlatko Andonovski mounted an impassioned defence of his team’s standards and said criticism of their World Cup campaign was unfair as the defending champions prepare for Sunday’s round of 16 clash against Sweden.

The USA head into their first knock-out clash in Melbourne under fire after having scraped through the group phase with draws against the Netherlands and Portugal.

Retired USA great Carli Lloyd gave a scathing assessment of the Portugal game, saying the post that saved the Americans in stoppage time was “player of the match”.

Andonovski said the criticism was out of order: “For someone again to question the standards .... and mindset of this team after everything that they do, I personally don’t think it’s the right time to do that,” he told reporters on Saturday.

“And I don’t think it’s the right thing as well. I’m very happy with where they’re (the players) at, how they hold themselves accountable and they keep raising the standards.”

Reuters

FULL TIME! Women’s World Cup LIVE: Japan 3-1 Norway

11:15 , Jamie Braidwood

The race for the Women’s World Cup golden boot is taking shape with the knockout stages underway in Australia and New Zealand.

Hinata Miyazawa moved back to the top of the standings as the in-form striker rounded off Japan’s 3-1 win over Norway in the last-16, moving her to five goals in four games.

Alexandra Popp, one of the pre-tournament favourites for the golden boot, had joined Miyazawa on four goals but the Germany captain will be unable to add any more after the two-time champions crashed out in the group stages.

Women’s World Cup golden boot: Who’s leading the top-scorer standings?

FULL TIME! Women’s World Cup LIVE: Japan 3-1 Norway

11:13 , Jamie Braidwood

A day of expected results at the World Cup? That’s a first. I think most people had Japan and Spain coming through against Norway and Switzerland, with Group C topping Group A quite comfortably in the end.

Here’s how this half of the World Cup is shaping up:

QF1: Spain vs (Netherlands / South Africa) (02:00, Friday)

QF2: Japan vs (Sweden / United States) (08:30, Friday)

FULL TIME! Women’s World Cup LIVE: Japan 3-1 Norway

11:03 , Jamie Braidwood

This was another performance from Japan where all of their play looked so cohesive, organised and composed. Norway had a spell after their equaliser where they grew into the game but they couldn’t get close to Japan in the second half. They were so clearly second best.

FULL TIME! Women’s World Cup LIVE: Japan 3-1 Norway

10:55 , Jamie Braidwood

JAPAN ARE THROUGH TO THE QUARTER-FINALS!

Japan wasted a chance right at the end as Fujino shot over on the counter-attack, but that was a rare instance of poor decision making from the World Cup’s standout team. This was another cool, clinical performance from Japan, who controlled Norway throughout.

Hinata Miyazawa sealed victory on the counter-attack with her fifth of the World Cup after Norway had given Japan a helping hand with both of their first two goals, with Ingrid Syrstad Engen diverting a cross into her own net for the opener and Vilde Boe Risa’s back-pass

Guro Reiten had equalised in the first half, the first goal Japan had conceded at the tournament, but Norway’s star forwards Caroline Graham Hansen and Ada Hegerberg, who came on as a late substitute, were largely kept quiet.

It’s USA or Sweden next.

Women’s World Cup LIVE: Japan 3-1 Norway

10:51 , Jamie Braidwood

90 mins: SAVE! Ayaka Yamashita prevents a nervy finish for Japan! The goalkeeper claws Sævik’s header off the line as Norway threw bodies forward... and then Japan scramble clear.

GOAL! Women’s World Cup LIVE: Japan 3-1 Norway

10:40 , Jamie Braidwood

It’s a textbook Japan counter-attack! And it looks to have finished off Norway!

It’s also a fifth goal of the tournament for Hinata Miyazawa, and this one all comes down to the timing of the run. Japan had time and space to burst forward after Norway’s attack broke down, but Miyazawa delayed her run to allow Aoba Fujino to find the perfect pass through the Norway defence. Miyazawa then keeps her head and finds the corner with her finish. Sublime from Japan.

Just so clinical!

Women’s World Cup LIVE: Japan 2-1 Norway

10:39 , Jamie Braidwood

77 mins: CLOSE! Norway’s best moment of the second half, and they are inches away from being level! Graham Hansen roams inside, but her dribble instead breaks to Karina Sævik - the substitute aims across goal but drags her shot wide from the angle!

Maanum then finds the target, but is unable to trouble Yamashita.

Women’s World Cup LIVE: Japan 2-1 Norway

10:34 , Jamie Braidwood

74 mins: Now, here comes Ada Hegerberg. Norway’s star striker is back after being ruled out of their previous two games with a groin injury and it’s an attacking change from Hege Riise. The left-back Hansen is replaced as Hegerberg is thrown forward.

Women’s World Cup LIVE: Japan 2-1 Norway

10:33 , Jamie Braidwood

73 mins: Almost an immediate impact from Ueki! The forward goes on a bursting run down the line, before showing her class as she ducked inside and beat the Norway defenders.

The cut-back looked for Miyazawa, but Mjelde read it well and was able to head back to her goalkeeper.

Women’s World Cup LIVE: Japan 2-1 Norway

10:30 , Jamie Braidwood

70 mins: Hinata Miyazawa is inches away from threading a perfect through ball to Tanaka, but it runs just a touch too far. So much of Japan’s game plan is built on those fine margins, taking risks on low-percentage passes and believing they can lead to high-quality chances. It hasn’t quite come off today but they are still in a good position.

Japan will now make their first change - as Riko Ueki replaces Tanaka.

Women’s World Cup LIVE: Japan 2-1 Norway

10:27 , Jamie Braidwood

66 mins: I don’t think this is the most impressive Japan have been at the World Cup - but they have been able to quietly shut Norway down with their possession and territory. Norway have barely been able to get out of their half and have struggled to build any attacking pressure, but much of that is down to Norway.

Women’s World Cup LIVE: Japan 2-1 Norway

10:23 , Jamie Braidwood

61 mins: Caroline Graham Hansen has not been able to make much of an impact so far, perhaps given how deep she has been. It’s time for Norway’s first two changes: on comes Maanum for Boe Risa, whose error led to Japan’s goal. Hegerberg is not among the double switch, with Emilie Haavi on instead.

Women’s World Cup LIVE: Japan 2-1 Norway

10:18 , Jamie Braidwood

55 mins: Well, Norway have ccome back once, but conceding another soft goal like that is hardly going to help the team’s confidence. The big questions is how fit Ada Hegerberg is, and how much she could contribute in the second half. Sophie Román Haug has not had the same impact against Japan.

GOAL! Women’s World Cup LIVE: Japan 2-1 Norway

10:15 , Jamie Braidwood

Shimizu was so alert to pounce on this ball. It shows how advanced Japan’s wing-backs are too, given she was in the position to intercept it.

GOAL! Women’s World Cup LIVE: Japan 2-1 Norway

10:09 , Jamie Braidwood

Japan retake the lead and it’s anoher defensive nightmare for Norway!

After Japan threatened the Norway penalty area, Vilde Bøe Risa had the chance to clear but instead attempted a back-pass inside her own area. It’s cut out by the wing-back Risa Shimizu, whose finish is then deflected in! Japan’s pressure pays off, but that’s another avoidable goal for Norway to concede.

Women’s World Cup LIVE: Japan 1-1 Norway

10:08 , Jamie Braidwood

45 mins: Back underway in Wellington. Japan technically didn’t have a shot on target in the first half. Hasegawa changes that within the first minute of the restart as he drills a half volley at goal, but it doesn’t trouble Mikalsen.

HALF TIME! Women’s World Cup LIVE: Japan 1-1 Norway

10:02 , Jamie Braidwood

Earlier today. Aitana Bonmati netted two stunning goals as Spain thrashed Switzerland 5-1 at the Women’s World Cup to clinch a quarter-final berth for the first time in their history.

Switzerland kept three clean sheets to top Group A, but it took a mere five minutes for midfielder Bonmati to breach their defence for the first goal for La Roja.

“A 5-1 (victory) in the round of 16 is not easy,” Bonmati said in a post-match interview. “I have a lot of confidence in this team and now we are going for the quarter-finals.”

Additional goals from Bonmati, Alba Redondo, Laia Codina and Jenny Hermoso completed the rout to the delight of the crowd of 43,217 - a record for a soccer game in New Zealand, women or men.

“We have shown what we can do and without having the best version,” coach Jorge Vilda said.

“So, in the end we have arrived, we have pressed well, we have made history, we have shown that we are a team of 23 players. Today, yes, they are not words, they are deeds and we are happy, to be honest.”

Reuters

HALF TIME! Women’s World Cup LIVE: Japan 1-1 Norway

09:50 , Jamie Braidwood

Proper contest, this. Japan started well, continuing their strong form at the World Cup but needed a slice of luck and a deflection off Engen to take what was a deserved lead. But Norway hit back through Reiten’s outstanding header, and from there grew into the game. It’s finely poised ahead of the second half.

Women’s World Cup LIVE: Japan 1-1 Norway

09:49 , Jamie Braidwood

45+1 mins: Just the two minutes added on after a brilliant first half - Tanaka just catches Engen as they challenged for a ball in the Norway penalty area.

That should be that.

Women’s World Cup LIVE: Japan 1-1 Norway

09:46 , Jamie Braidwood

43 mins: Japan have grown back into this at the end of the first half, as Hasegawa looks to play Endo through with a cutting ball. It almost splits the Norway back four wide open, but it just runs a touch too far away from Endo.

Women’s World Cup LIVE: Japan 1-1 Norway

09:43 , Jamie Braidwood

40 mins: Japan thread a nice move together through the packed Norway defence - it breaks to Risa Shimizu on the right flank but she slices her shot over.

Women’s World Cup LIVE: Japan 1-1 Norway

09:40 , Jamie Braidwood

35 mins: This feels like a more level game now than during the first 20 minutes, where Norway almost seemed to accept that Japan were the favourites given their form so far at the World Cup. Norway have adjusted to it really well since the equaliser and are showing a bit more bravery in where they are deciding to press Japan.

Women’s World Cup LIVE: Japan 1-1 Norway

09:33 , Jamie Braidwood

30 mins: Norway’s goal was also just a reminder of how explosive their forward players can be - Graham Hansen had been quiet until that point but the winger’s change of pace really frightened Japan. If anything, the game is now set up better for Norway if they are able to win the ball back from Japan and pick them off.

Women’s World Cup LIVE: Japan 1-1 Norway

09:29 , Jamie Braidwood

This is very Messi 2009 Champions League final header vibes.

Women’s World Cup LIVE: Japan 1-1 Norway

09:28 , Jamie Braidwood

23 mins: You feared for Norway after Japan took the lead with such a soft goal - the match was set up perfectly for them to counter-attack Norway.

But Reiten’s header has changed the match completely - it’s a huge boost for Norway after a difficult World Cup to this point, and it’s the first time Japan have suffered a set back. It will be fascinating to see how they respond.

GOAL! Women’s World Cup LIVE: Japan 1-1 Norway

09:23 , Jamie Braidwood

OUT OF NOWHERE! NORWAY ARE LEVEL!

And what a header this is from Guro Reiten! The Chelsea star has been quiet all tournament, but one of the smallest players on the pitch somehow manages to steer a looping header past Ayaka Yamashita from 12 yards.

Great goal - and the first Japan have conceded at the World Cup.

GOAL! Women’s World Cup LIVE: Japan 1-0 Norway

09:17 , Jamie Braidwood

Japan get a lucky break to lead Norway!

It had been coming, but this is an absolute gift from Norway. Hinata Miyazawa’s inswinging cross into the box takes a touch off Ingrid Syrstad Engen as she stretches in an attempt to cut it out. Instead, it only takes it away from goalkeeper Aurora Mikalsen as it rolls inside the front post.

A cheap, cheap goal to concede from Norway.

Women’s World Cup LIVE: Japan 0-0 Norway

09:16 , Jamie Braidwood

13 mins: Chance! Japan threaten from the corner as Tanaka meets the inswinging cross at the front post. It’s flicked on by Tanaka and Norway striker Sophie Román Haug has to be alert to clear.

Women’s World Cup LIVE: Japan 0-0 Norway

09:15 , Jamie Braidwood

12 mins: Norway are dropping very deep when Japan establish possession and there are some signs that it’s frustrating them, with a few more crosses flung into the box than usual. Japan try to work it around the outside through Endo, but Vilde Bøe Risa slides in to concede the corner.

Women’s World Cup LIVE: Japan 0-0 Norway

09:13 , Jamie Braidwood

9 mins: Norway dropped Arsenal’s Frida Maanum from their midfield against Japan as Hege Riise’s side continue to look for fluency at the World Cup. Guro Reiten has again started centrally.

Women’s World Cup LIVE: Japan 0-0 Norway

09:08 , Jamie Braidwood

5 mins: Japan attack from the left through Endo, whose delivery is typically dangerous. It breaks to Risa Shimizu on the opposite flank, and the wing-back’s ball across is neither shot or cross and drifts wide. Norway have yet to get going.

Women’s World Cup LIVE: Japan 0-0 Norway

09:05 , Jamie Braidwood

2 mins: A couple of nervy moments already in the Norway defence as Japan attack down the right. Goalkeeper Aurora Mikalsen is hesitant to deal with the cross and then Tuva Hansen concedes a cheap corner. Japan are unable to take advantage.

Women’s World Cup LIVE: Japan 0-0 Norway

09:02 , Jamie Braidwood

Here we go! Underway in the second last-16 tie of the day: can Japan continue their excellent start to the World Cup? The good news for viewers is they’re wearing their away kit, which ranks as one of the best of the tournament.

Women’s World Cup LIVE: Japan vs Norway

08:55 , Jamie Braidwood

The race for the Women’s World Cup golden boot is taking shape as the group stages continue in Australia and New Zealand.

Japan’s Hinata Miyazawa bagged a brace in the 4-0 victory over Spain to move top of the top-scorer standings. Alexandra Popp, one of the pre-tournament favourites for the golden boot, joined her on four goals but the Germany captain will be unable to add any more after the two-time champions crashed out in the group stages.

Women’s World Cup golden boot standings

Four goals

Hinata Miyazawa (Japan) - one assist,

Alexandra Popp (Germany)

Three goals

Lauren James (England) - three assists

Ary Borges (Brazil) - one assist

Kadidiatou Diani (France) - one assist

Jennifer Hermoso (Spain) - one assist

Aitana Bonmati (Spain)

Alba Redondo (Spain)

Sophie Román Haug (Norway)

Amanda Ilestedt (Sweden)

Jill Roord (Netherlands)

Women’s World Cup LIVE: Japan vs Norway

08:53 , Jamie Braidwood

What makes Japan so interesting?

The 2011 champions were considered to be a side in transition - but have so far played the best football of the tournament. They have a clear tactical plan and Japan’s players are well drilled in the system they have chosen to play. Japan finished the group stage with the most goals and expected goals (xG) of any team at the tournament, but it’s about the only statistical category in which they do dominate. Japan aren’t near the top when it comes to passes, possession, or even shots. Everything is instead built on efficiency and maximising the quality of their goal-scoring opportunities. Japan’s shape, with wing-backs and two No 10s, has allowed this, while the outstanding service from Yui Hasegawa and Jun Endo feeds the players who have taken their chances.

Women’s World Cup LIVE: Japan vs Norway

08:40 , Jamie Braidwood

The Japan fans never disappoint - even on a cold and rainy winter’s night in Wellington.

Women’s World Cup: Japan vs Norway

08:22 , Jamie Braidwood

Japan: Yamashita, Takahashi, Kumagai, Minami, Shimizu, Nagano, Hasegawa, Endo, Fujino, Mina Tanaka, Miyazawa.

Subs: Momoko Tanaka, Miyake, Sugita, Naomoto, Ueki, Hayashi, Seike, Moriya, Hamano, Chiba, Ishikawa, Hirao.

Norway: Mikalsen, Bjelde, Mjelde, Harviken, Tuva Hansen, Engen, Risa, Reiten, Caroline Hansen, Haug, Haavi.

Subs: Fiskerstrand, Sonstevold, Horte, Bergsvand, Saevik, Hegerberg, Eikeland, Blakstad, Maanum, Lund, Josendal, Pettersen.

Women’s World Cup: Japan vs Norway

08:19 , Jamie Braidwood

This should be a cracker of a last-16 tie between Japan and Norway. Japan have been the best team at the World Cup so far and now play a Norway side who are growing in confidence after a difficult start to Group A.

“You can see the level of the World Cup is rising, so the women’s game is growing fast,” said Norway coach Hege Riise. “Everyone said it was an easy group, we knew it wasn’t because it was a tight group for us. Playing the home team in the first game and not performing well was a little bit devastating for us.

“But after that we got better step-by-step and when we needed a good win we went on to play Philippines and won 6-0. So confidence in the team is rising.”

Futoshi Ikeda’s Japan side have impressed with their 3-4-3 system, scoring 11 times and keeping three clean sheets in the group stage. “Each player is performing their role,” he said. “They’re not only performing to their own capacity, but they are working as a unit. It’s all about the collective.”

Women’s World Cup: Japan vs Norway - Team news!

08:17 , Jamie Braidwood

We switch our attention to Wellington now as Japan look to continue their impressive tournament against Norway, who welcome Ada Hegerberg back to the back.

Sophie Román Haug has helped score three goals in her absence and leads the line against Japan, while Caroline Graham Hansen keeps her place after her display in the 6-0 win against Philippines.

Japan make just one change from the side that thrashed Spain 4-0, with Aoba Fujino coming into the forward line in place of Hikaru Naomoto.

Hinata Miyazawa, who scored twice against Spain and is leading the golden boot race on four goals, leads the line.

FULL TIME! Women’s World Cup LIVE: Spain 5-1 Switzerland

08:08 , Jamie Braidwood

This is also Spain’s first ever knockout win at a major tournament in their history. They were knocked out of the Euros by England in the quarter-finals last summer and then at the last-16 by the USA four years ago.

FULL TIME! Women’s World Cup LIVE: Spain 5-1 Switzerland

07:59 , Jamie Braidwood

Quality from Spain, as they respond to their 4-0 defeat to Japan in style to reach the quarter-finals of the World Cup for the first time. Switzerland were disappointing and only had one shot throughout the match, but Spain’s pressing and intensity was sharp from the start as Aitana Bonmati led a brilliant performance from midfield.

They now overtake Japan to become the top scorers at the World Cup and Jorge Vilda’s side will be full of confidence again ahead of a quarter-final against either Netherlands or South Africa.

Women’s World Cup LIVE: Spain 5-1 Switzerland

07:53 , Jamie Braidwood

90mins; We’re into four minutes of added time. Switzerland are going out with a whimper as things stand.

The attendance at Eden Park tonight has been was 43,217, which is a record for a football match in New Zealand.

That record has already been broken several times this tournament.

Women’s World Cup LIVE: Spain 5-1 Switzerland

07:48 , Jamie Braidwood

86 mins: So what does this eye-catching Spain win mean for their chances of winning the World Cup? On this basis, you would fancy them to beat either the Netherlands or South Africa in the quarter-finals. That could lead to a rematch with Japan, or whoever comes through that side of the bracket. And how good must Japan be, to beat Spain 4-0?!

So many questions.

Women’s World Cup LIVE: Spain 5-1 Switzerland

07:46 , Jamie Braidwood

84 mins: Another change for Spain with Salma Paralluelo the next to be withdrawn. The Barcelona winger has looked impressive once again.

Women’s World Cup LIVE: Spain 5-1 Switzerland

07:41 , Jamie Braidwood

77 mins: Alexia Putellas is now on for Spain and the two-time Ballon d’Or winner will get the final 20 minutes of this last-16 tie. Does she come back into the starting line-up for the quarter-final? It was a huge call from Vilda to drop her today, but Bonmati’s performance has ensured Spain haven’t really needed her.

Women’s World Cup LIVE: Spain 5-1 Switzerland

07:38 , Jamie Braidwood

Quality from Spain’s record goalscorer, who joins Bonmati and Redondo on three goals at this World Cup.

GOAL! Women’s World Cup LIVE: Spain 5-1 Switzerland

07:31 , Jamie Braidwood

FIVE for Spain as Hermoso gets in on the act!

It’s poor from Switzerland as they give the ball away trying to play out from the back, but Spain were so quick once they won it back. It’s rolled through to Hermoso, who opens up her body and steers the finish into the far corner.

Women’s World Cup LIVE: Spain 4-1 Switzerland

07:24 , Jamie Braidwood

61 mins: Redondo cuts onto her left foot but shoots over from the edge of the box. After scoring in the first half the winger is up to three goals for the tournament, which is enough for a tie of second place. Bonmati is now also up to three goals overall.

Women’s World Cup LIVE: Spain 4-1 Switzerland

07:18 , Jamie Braidwood

56 mins: Ah, maybe not! Terchoun, the Swiss sub, plays a one-two with Bachmann and sets up the volley at goal. It’s straight at Coll, but that was a chance in what was Switzerland’s first shot of the whole match.

Women’s World Cup LIVE: Spain 4-1 Switzerland

07:17 , Jamie Braidwood

55 mins: In the group stage, many of the games that were one-sided in the first half were non-events in the second. Let’s hope that’s not the case, but Switzerland look well beaten and it’s been all Spain since the break.

Women’s World Cup LIVE: Spain 4-1 Switzerland

07:14 , Jamie Braidwood

50 mins: It’s obviously a long way back for Switzerland now - Paralluelo goes close with a left-foot shot that is bent towards the far post. Thalmann is equal to it.

Women’s World Cup LIVE: Spain 4-1 Switzerland

07:09 , Jamie Braidwood

Back underway in Auckland! Switzerland make three changes at half time: Sandrine Mauron, Meriame Terchoun and Viola Calligaris and on for Sow, Reuteler and Aigbogun.

HALF TIME! Women’s World Cup LIVE: Spain 4-1 Switzerland

06:59 , Jamie Braidwood

Spain had 18 attempts in the first half. Switzerland had 0.

Codina’s passback was the only attempt on the Spain goal.

HALF TIME! Women’s World Cup LIVE: Spain 4-1 Switzerland

06:53 , Jamie Braidwood

Well, that was quite the half from Spain with four goals and an own goal. Aitana Bonmati has been the star with two brilliant goals, but the game turned when Spain responded to conceding a horror own goal with a brilliant attacking performance. Spain have been intense, pressing well, and Switzerland have been overwhelmed.

GOAL! Women’s World Cup LIVE: Spain 4-1 Switzerland

06:48 , Jamie Braidwood

A killer blow for Switzerland on the stroke of half time - and this time it’s a defensive disaster from them. After keeping three clean sheets in the group stages, Switzerland have been all over the place today. They fail to clear a corner and Laia Codina is able to poke through a host of bodies to add Spain’s fourth, which will also make the centre back feel a lot better after her horror own goal earlier in the half.

Spain’s response since then has been excellent.

Women’s World Cup LIVE: Spain 3-1 Switzerland

06:41 , Jamie Braidwood

It’s been the Aitana Bonmati show in Auckland.

GOAL! Women’s World Cup LIVE: Spain 3-1 Switzerland

06:37 , Jamie Braidwood

BONMATI STRIKES AGAIN!

Another incredible goal from Bonmati, and a near identical copy from her first! Switzerland once again fail to clear the ball and it drops to Bonmati like she has magnets in her feet. Bonmati dummies and sends two defenders and Thalmann the wrong way, before turning onto her left foot and curling the shot into the empty net. Just exquisite.

Women’s World Cup LIVE: Spain 2-1 Switzerland

06:35 , Jamie Braidwood

33 mins: Double chance! Bonmati goes close twice in quick succession as the ball drops to the Barcelona star in and around the box. The first effort is blocked and from the corner Bonmati’s strike is palmed wide by Thalmann.

Women’s World Cup LIVE: Spain 2-1 Switzerland

06:33 , Jamie Braidwood

30 mins: Switzerland have struggled to deal with Spain’s counter-press so far but manage to play out from the back as Walti takes charge. There was a chance to switch play to Aigbogun, but Switzerland aren’t quick enough and the move breaks down.

Women’s World Cup LIVE: Spain 2-1 Switzerland

06:29 , Jamie Braidwood

26 mins: After some lovely work from Bonmati to win the ball back in the middle, Teresa Abelleira tries her luck from distance. It goes whistling over the bar.

Women’s World Cup LIVE: Spain 2-1 Switzerland

06:25 , Jamie Braidwood

22 mins: Spain look so dangerous in the final third and are building pressure well. Redondo puts in a dangerous cross from the right that Stierli is forced to hook clear.

At the other end, Switzerland work the ball nicely through to Sow as Bachmann dribbles past a couple of defenders. Sow, who was offisde, flashes the effort past the post.

GOAL! Women’s World Cup LIVE: Spain 2-1 Switzerland

06:19 , Jamie Braidwood

And there it is! What a response this has been from Spain - and they deservedly retake the lead! Batlle’s inswinging cross goes just over Bonmati but Redondo is alert at the back post. She meets the cross and guides a well placed header into the far corner. Spain retake the lead in three minutes!

Women’s World Cup LIVE: Spain 1-1 Switzerland

06:17 , Jamie Braidwood

14 mins: Well, what a start it’s been, and far from the assured one either Codina or Coll wanted. Barcelona though are creating plenty of chances at the other end. Parades heads over from an inswinging corner before Esther Gonzalez turns well in the box but sees her shot blocked from close range.

GOAL! Women’s World Cup LIVE: Spain 1-1 Switzerland

06:13 , Jamie Braidwood

DISASTER FOR SPAIN! It’s a horrible own goal from Laia Codina, from about 40 yards out!

Codina, brought in for her first World Cup start today, turns and attempts to play a pass back to the goalkeeper but gets the power and placement all wrong. It goes straight past Coll and into the empty net, handing Switzerland a gift of an equaliser.

Women’s World Cup LIVE: Spain 1-0 Switzerland

06:12 , Jamie Braidwood

10 mins: Spain go hunting for the second as Hermoso flicks a near-post header just over the bar..., OH NO WHAT’S HAPPENED HERE!

Women’s World Cup LIVE: Spain 1-0 Switzerland

06:11 , Jamie Braidwood

Such a sharp turn from Bonmati - just brilliant.

GOAL! Women’s World Cup LIVE: Spain 1-0 Switzerland

06:06 , Jamie Braidwood

5 mins: Just the start Spain wanted and it’s a STUNNER from Aitana Bonmati!

Paralluelo’s cross to the back post finds Redondo and it takes a brilliant save from Thalmann to push it onto the post. Redondo keeps it alive and feeds it back to Bonmati, who sharply turns onto her left foot and slams the finish past Thalmann in one swift movement. If it was going to take something special to score the first goal against Switzerland at this World Cup, that certainly was from the Barcelona star!

Women’s World Cup LIVE: Spain 0-0 Switzerland

06:05 , Jamie Braidwood

2 mins: Crnogorčević looks to slip an early ball through to Bachmann, but it just bobbles away and Coll get an her first touch for Spain. The goalkeeper’s every touch is being closed watched in what is the biggest game of the 22-year-old’s career.

Women’s World Cup LIVE: Spain 0-0 Switzerland

06:01 , Jamie Braidwood

Underway in Auckland! Will Spain’s changes pay off or can steady Switzerland pull off another World Cup shock?

Women’s World Cup LIVE: Spain vs Switzerland

05:59 , Jamie Braidwood

The anthems are played at the knockout stages of the Women’s World Cup are moments away!

Women’s World Cup: Spain vs Switzerland

05:54 , Jamie Braidwood

Switzerland have never reached the quarter-finals of the World Cup before but were one of three teams who did not condede a goal in the group stages. In contrast to Spain’s debutant goalkeeper, the experience of 37-year-old Gaëlle Thalmann has been key for Switzerland’s defensive solidity. They will have to be prepared to spend long spells without the ball today.

Women’s World Cup: Spain vs Switzerland

05:47 , Jamie Braidwood

There is surely no way Jorge Vilda can survive this team selection should it backfire and Spain lose to Switzerland in the last-16.

Dropping Putellas and handing a debut to a rookie goalkeeper for what is Spain’s second knockout match at the World Cup in history is a huge call.

Women’s World Cup

05:37 , Jamie Braidwood

Meanwhile, Fifa is investigating a complaint of misconduct in relation to Zambia at the Women’s World Cup.

It has been reported the alleged incident, said to involve head coach Bruce Mwape, took place during a training session ahead of Zambia’s final Group C match against Costa Rica.

The Football Association of Zambia (FAZ), however, stressed the organisation had not received any formal complaint from players or officials.

“Fifa takes any allegation of misconduct extremely seriously and has a clear process in place for anyone in football who wants to report an incident,” a spokesperson said.

“We can confirm that a complaint has been received in relation to the Zambian Women’s National team and this is currently being investigated.

“We cannot provide further details regarding an ongoing investigation for obvious confidentiality reasons.”

Zambia Women’s coach accused of rubbing player’s chest at World Cup

Women’s World Cup LIVE

05:29 , Jamie Braidwood

Lauren James inspired England to a thrilling Women’s World Cup victory over China and now the Lionesses are into the knock-out stages of the tournament.

The Chelsea forward has produced some spectacular strikes already down under, with England rebounding from the injury loss of Keira Walsh.

Sarina Wiegman has reshuffled the pack spectacularly and England have regained their confidence, particularly in front of goal.

Here’s everything you need to know about the Lionesses’ next challenge in Australia:

When do England play next? Women’s World Cup fixtures and route to the final

Women’s World Cup LIVE

05:23 , Jamie Braidwood

England goalkeeper Mary Earps hailed “mastermind” Sarina Wiegman whose system switch-up stirred the Lionesses to life and ensured they launched themselves into the World Cup’s knockout phase with a perfect record.

Wiegman’s move from a 4-3-3 to a 3-5-2 formation in the absence of injured midfielder Keira Walsh inspired a 6-1 victory over China to conclude the group stage and set up a last-16 meeting with Nigeria in Brisbane.

And there was more hopeful news for Lionesses fans on Friday morning after it was revealed Walsh stepped up her recovery from the knee injury she sustained against Denmark, and was following an individual programme whilst her 22 team-mates trained together at the Central Coast Stadium.

Asked if the new system had been in the works for a while, Earps replied: “No, not really, I mean obviously Sarina is the mastermind behind all the tactics and the formations, so yes, we just do as we’re told, we get in formation, do our job to the best of our ability and it paid off for us.”

More here

Mary Earps insists fearless England ready to avoid World Cup banana skin

Women’s World Cup LIVE

05:15 , Jamie Braidwood

The race for the Women’s World Cup golden boot is taking shape as the group stages continue in Australia and New Zealand.

Japan’s Hinata Miyazawa bagged a brace in the 4-0 victory over Spain to move top of the top-scorer standings. Alexandra Popp, one of the pre-tournament favourites for the golden boot, joined her on four goals but the Germany captain will be unable to add any more after the two-time champions crashed out in the group stages.

Lauren James among those on three goals after her stunning double in England’s 6-1 win over China. If two or more players finish on the same number of goals, the golden boot will be determined by assists and then on minutes played.

Women’s World Cup golden boot standings

Four goals

Hinata Miyazawa (Japan) - one assist

Alexandra Popp (Germany)

Three goals

Lauren James (England) - three assists

Ary Borges (Brazil) - one assist

Kadidiatou Diani (France) - one assist

Sophie Román Haug (Norway)

Amanda Ilestedt (Sweden)

Jill Roord (Netherlands)

Women’s World Cup LIVE: Team news!

05:09 , Jamie Braidwood

The team news is in and the big news for Spain is that Jorge Vilda has decided to drop Alexia Putellas and his goalkeeper as he makes five changes from the 4-0 defeat to Japan. Barcelona’s Cata Coll replaces Misa Rodriguez in goal for Spain and will make her international debut in the knockout stages of the World Cup, while two-time Ballon d’Or Putellas drops to the bench.

There’s also a change at centre-back, with Laia Codina coming in for Rocío Gálvez. Mariona Caldentey and Olga Carmona are also replaced, with Esther Hernandez, Oihane Hernández and Alba Redondo all coming in. Big changes.

Switzerland: Thalmann, Stierli, Maritz, Riesen, Aigbogun, Reuteler, Sow, Waelti, Crnogorcevic, Bachmann, Piubel.

Subs: Peng, Friedli, Marti, Felber, Arfaoui, Rey, Buehler, Mauron, Calligaris, Humm, Terchoun, Lehmann.

Spain: Coll, Batlle, Paredes, Hernandez, Codina, Abelleira, Bonmati, Hermoso, Gonzalez, Redondo, Paralluelo.

Subs: Rodriguez, Salon, Andres, Guerrero, Caldentey, Putellas, Navarro, Perez, Carmona, Galvez, Zornoza, del Castillo

04:57 , Jamie Braidwood

The two squads inspect the pitch ahead of kick-off. We should have some team news any moment now...

04:49 , Jamie Braidwood

Switzerland manager Inka Grings on her team’s progress to the last-16 and the improvements they must have to score more goals:

“It feels very good to have made it through. There are a lot of things we can be satisfied with, and we are, but we’ve got to understand that the journey is not finished yet. I played in Germany long enough to see things differently. You’ve got to be able to instil a winning mentality. If you’ve got enough conviction, anything is possible.

“It was something that we analysed intensively, we talked through with the team and [we will look to] also take the offensive players, assertive players, bring them more into the team. Of course we have to be more assertive in that run towards the goal.”

Women’s World Cup LIVE

04:40 , Jamie Braidwood

Spain head coach Jorge Vilda warned that his team won’t forget the 4-0 defeat to Japan as they begin their knockout stage campaign against Switzerland.

“These types of defeats leave a deep mark upon us,” he said. “But they are also necessary in the evolutionary development of the team and process of growth.

“We haven’t forgotten about it and we will not forget about it.

“Switzerland have something very valuable, that in three games no-one scored a goal against them. That means that the defence is very solid.”

Spain are playing in just their second knockout game at the World Cup, after being knocked out in the last-16 by the USA four years ago.

Women’s World Cup LIVE

04:34 , Jamie Braidwood

The upsets at the Women’s World Cup group stage started on the opening day and ended with the biggest of all. Germany, the two-time champions and among the tournament favourites, are out before the quarter-finals for the first time in their history, a result that ranks as both the most stunning shock the tournament has ever seen, while also simply continuing the theme of the greatest group stage ever played at the Women’s World Cup. After all, hadn’t we learned to expect the unexpected?

A 1-1 draw against South Korea sealed Germany’s fate, following their dramatic 2-1 defeat to Colombia earlier in Group H. It meant Morocco, making their Women’s World Cup debut, progressed ahead of the side who thrashed them 6-0 in the opening round. The first-ever 32-team Women’s World Cup and the decision to expand from 24 teams has been a resounding triumph: rather than creating a more predictable group stage, it has done the opposite and led to wonderfully chaotic, thrilling tournament football.

How the Women’s World Cup produced its greatest ever group stage

How the Women’s World Cup produced its greatest ever group stage

Women’s World Cup LIVE

04:33 , Jamie Braidwood

After 16 days and a group stage that was full of twists and turns, the state of play at the Women’s World Cup remains largely as it was before the start of the tournament: there is no standout favourite. Despite the shock exits of Germany, Brazil, and Canada, the tournament remains open to a number of teams and the list of contenders grew as the group stage progressed. No one is ruling out anyone, though as ever, when it comes to teams punching above their weight, the question at this point in the World Cup is how long they can sustain their momentum.

One of the differences between this year’s last-16 to four years ago and previous tournaments is there are more games than usual at this stage where there is a clear underdog. That, of course, is a result of a group phase like no other in Australia and New Zealand and its string of high-profile shocks. South Africa-Netherlands, Nigeria-England, Morocco-France, and even Jamaica-Colombia, all carry the edge of potential surprises.

Women’s World Cup last-16 preview

Can England break cycle of World Cup shocks or will underdogs continue to thrive?

Women’s World Cup LIVE

04:32 , Jamie Braidwood

How to watch today’s matches

Saturday 5 August

Match 49: Switzerland vs Spain (06:00, Auckland) - BBC One

Match 50: Japan vs Norway (09:00, Wellington) - ITV 1

Women’s World Cup LIVE

04:31 , Jamie Braidwood

The Women’s World Cup knockout rounds are set after the group stages featured a number of shocks and stunning upsets in Australia and New Zealand.

Germany, Brazil and Canada were all knocked out in the groups, with Jamaica, South Africa and Morocco among those through to the last-16 for the first time.

England are looking strong after Sarina Wiegman’s tactical tweak released Lauren James, with the Lionesses forward scoring twice in the 6-1 win against China.

It means England will play Nigeria in the last-16, with the knockout stages getting underway on Saturday with Switzerland vs Spain and Japan vs Norway.

Here is everything you need to know about how to watch the Women’s World Cup.

Women’s World Cup TV schedule: How to watch every match today

Good morning!

04:30 , Jamie Braidwood

Hello and welcome as the Women’s World Cup knockout stages get underway this morning, with Spain facing Switzerland in the last-16.

It’s been a tournament defined by shocks and surprises so far, after a group stage that saw Germany, Brazil and Canada crash out while Jamaica, South Africa and Morocco advanced to the knockout phase for the first time.

Switzerland will look to keep the upsets coming as they take on Spain in Auckland. The Swiss have been defensively resilient so far and did not concede a single goal as they topped Group A ahead of Norway, New Zealand and the Philippines.

Spain, meanwhile, are looking to respond to their 4-0 defeat against Japan in their final game of Group C. That result increased the pressure on head coach Jorge Vilda, as Spain look to rediscover their early form that made them contenders for the World Cup.

Follow live updates from Switzerland vs Spain in the Women’s World Cup last-16, followed by Japan vs Norway.