The favourites in Group B rose to the occasion and served notice to their potentially upcoming foes on FRI 01 JUL 2011.
» Japan 04-00 Mexico: The most capped player and most prolific goalscorer in the history of the Japanese women’s side, Homare SAWA, came away with a hat trick as the Nadeshiko easily sealed their place in the elimination phase.
» New Zealand 01-02 England: Sarah GREGORIUS gave the Ferns their first lead in a Women’s World Cup match, but her teammates could not keep it. Jill SCOTT equalised just after the one hour mark. In the 81st minute, with Kiwi goalkeeper Jenny BINDON frantically giving chase, Jessica CLARKE powered home Scott’s alert pass. The result eliminates New Zealand from contention for the next round, whilst England need only a draw against Japan to advance.