Japan defeated England 2-1 in the Women’s World Cup semifinal played on WED 01 JUL 2015. The match ended in the cruellest possible fashion for England, who conceded an own goal by Laura BASSETT in stoppage time.

Early on in Edmonton, there were few looks on goal for either side. In the 32nd minute, the match was turned on its head when referee Anna-Marie KEIGHLEY awarded a penalty to Japan for a foul by Claire RAFFERTY. Though replays seemed to show that the push on Saori ARIYOSHI was just outside the area, Aya MIYAMA calmly put away the penalty.

Just seven minutes later, Keighley gave a penalty at the other end. England captain Steph HOUGHTON tumbled to ground in the area, but replays showed little to no contact by Yūki ŌGIMI. Fara WILLIAMS stepped up to the spot and scored the equaliser.

In the second half, both sides had promising shots that ended up just wide of the mark. Less than two minutes away from extra time, though, disaster struck for the Three Lionesses as Bassett, attempting to volley a cross out into safety, deflected it over the head of goalkeeper Karen BARDSLEY and in off the bar.

Moments later, the final whistle sounded. The Nadeshiko celebrated joyously, while Bassett’s teammates tried desperately to console the unfortunate veteran. England will have little time to regroup before the third place match against Germany on Saturday, also in Edmonton. Japan have an opportunity to lift the trophy for the second straight time, but their foes in Vancouver on Sunday will again be the United States.