The elimination phase of the Women’s World Cup opened with two tense quarterfinals and one of the biggest upsets in the tournament’s history.
» England 01-01 France [F/OT; PK: 03-04]: In Leverkusen, Jill SCOTT gave England the lead at the hour mark with a long blast over goalkeeper Céline DEVILLE. Two minutes from time, though, Élise BUSSAGLIA found the equaliser through a crowded eighteen yard box. Extra time produced no breakthroughs, and although Camille ABILY missed the first penalty of the shootout, all remaining French players scored. As the pressure mounted, Claire RAFFERTY missed to the right, and Faye WHITE struck the bar. Les Bleues reach the semifinals for the first time but must face the Brazil-United States winner.
» Germany 00-01 Japan [F/OT]: The host nation’s attention was on Wolfsburg, but with careful possession play and stifling defending, Japan made clear that they were not to be overlooked. The deadlock was finally broken in the 18th minute of overtime, but it was Nadeshiko substitute Karina MARUYAMA who scored past Nadine ANGERER at an impossibly tight angle. Increasingly furious attacks from the Germans were turned away by goalkeeper Ayumi KAIHORI and her well organised defense, and when the final whistle blew, Germany were out. Japan, also making their first semifinal appearance, meet the Sweden-Australia winner.