08 March 2020

England defeat Japan with late winner in the SheBelieves Cup to take pressure off boss Phil Neville

England have beaten Japan 1-0 thanks to an Ellen White late goal in their second match at the SheBelieves Cup.

Manager Phil Neville will be relieved at the team's first win since they beat Czech Republic in November after taking criticism following their defeat to the USA on Thursday.

Early in the first half England's Lauren Hemp had a close shot on target but Japan's keeper made an excellent save to keep the Lionesses at bay.

A few minute later it was England keeper Ellie Roebuck's turn to make a save and with her fingertips she shut Japan out.

While both sides had a few more shots on target, the teams were deadlocked 0-0 at the break.

The scoreline wasn't broken until the 84th minute when substitute Ellen White scored. Toni Duggan crossed the ball in from the corner of the box and White slotted home from close range.

Despite the win, England remain in third position in the table even before the USA and Spain play one another.

England will play their final match of the tournament against Spain on Wednesday.

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