Having begun their Group B campaign with a goalless draw against Nigeria, Canada were looking to strengthen their bid to reach the knockout stages when they played against the Republic of Ireland, who were narrowly beaten by co-hosts Australia in their opening group game.

Jessie Fleming featured for the first time at the tournament and captained the Canadians from an attacking midfield position, while Kadeisha Buchanan and Ashley Lawrence were part of the back four with all three Blues in from the start.

Tight encounter

It was a dream start for the Republic of Ireland who broke the deadlock inside just four minutes when Katie McCabe scored directly from a corner, catching Canada by surprise and forcing them to reset after this early setback.

Canada were looking for a route back into the match, but there was a stoppage in play with 25 minutes on the watch for Lawrence who required treatment after a blow to the face. Thankfully, the Blues full-back was able to continue and was looking to cause problems down the left flank.

On the stroke of half-time, Canada drew level in slightly fortunate circumstances when a cross from the left-hand side was turned into her own net by Ireland defender Megan Connolly, which left the teams all-square at the break and everything still to play for.

Comeback complete

It was a contrasting start to the second half with Canada coming out of the blocks with purpose. They almost turned the game on its head when Jordyn Huitema curled an effort on target that was parried away by Courtney Brosnan in the Republic of Ireland goal.

At the next time of asking, Canada completed the comeback on 53 minutes. The ball was worked nicely into the feet of Adriana Leon inside the penalty area, who controlled neatly and poked her effort into the bottom corner from close range giving the Republic of Ireland work to do.

With momentum in their favour, Canada were on the front foot and squandered several half chances in their bid to put the game to bed. It was not all plain sailing as the Republic of Ireland had opportunities of their own in the search for an equaliser, but to no avail as Canada stood firm to secure the victory.

Japan victorious

In the opening game of the day, Maika Hamano was an unused substitute as Japan put themselves on the verge of qualifying for the knockout stage with a 2-0 victory over Costa Rica in Group C, which saw them maintain their 100 per cent start to the tournament.

What’s next?

Japan and Spain each have maximum points from their first two matches and will go head-to-head in their final Group C match on Monday 31 July in Wellington, with kick-off at 8am (UK time)

Canada are unbeaten in their opening two games and will face co-hosts Australia in their final Group B match on the same day, with Melbourne the venue and kick-off at 11am (UK time)