Canada has knocked the Republic of Ireland out of the Women’s World Cup with a 2-1 win, responding well to a stunning Katie McCabe opener.
The Irish knew before kick-off that defeat would ensure their elimination with a game to spare following their narrow opening-day loss to co-hosts Australia.
McCabe scored direct from a corner inside the opening four minutes to get them off to a dream start and spark hopes of a famous win in Perth.
However, a Megan Connolly own goal deep in first-half stoppage time levelled the score before Adriana Leon edged Canada in front in a second period dominated by the Olympic champions.
Canada rose to the top of Group B on four points ahead of Australia’s meeting with Nigeria on Thursday.
Elsewhere…
Spain continued a perfect start to their World Cup campaign with a 5-nil victory over Zambia to see them through to the knockout stages of the tournament.
Teresa Abelleiro scored an early goal in the eighth minute after third choice keeper Eunice Sakala was put through her paces in the opening minutes of the game.
Jenni Hermoso doubled that lead in the 13th minute, scoring on her 100th appearance for Spain.
Spain continued their dominance in the second half as Hermoso scored her second, as well as a brace for Alba Redondo.