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Live Reporting

Tom Rostance

All times stated are UK

Get involved

  1. Good night

    Japan 2-1 England

    Well what a kick in the teeth that was. A sickener of a way to go out but England have really caught the imagination over the last few weeks.

    Brutal. A brutal defeat. 

    Hope you enjoyed the coverage anyway. Read the match report here.

  2. 'Hold your head high'

    Japan 2-1 England

    Supportive words for Laura Bassett from former England team mate Kelly Smith.

  3. 'Japan were very poor'

    Japan 2-1 England

    Quote Message: I thought Japan were very poor and I've been impressed with the way USA have played throughout the whole competition. from Natasha Dowie Liverpool Ladies striker
    Natasha DowieLiverpool Ladies striker

    Japan will play USA in the Women's World Cup final.

    The match kicks off at 00:00 BST on Monday, 6 July.

  4. Next steps

    Japan 2-1 England

    Quote Message: Now we need the FA to make sure we are pushing women’s football even more than we have done. I've talked to people in the street and they don't know how to get to women’s games and if people know that’s how we break down barriers. from Rachel Yankey Former England midfielder
    Rachel YankeyFormer England midfielder
  5. Post update

    Classy tweet from former US captain Landon Donovan

  6. 'These players will inspire the youngsters'

    Japan 2-1 England

    Quote Message: When the girls get back, they should be given a heroes welcome. We need to get more people supporting women's football and start up academies for young girls to play football. Hopefully in 10 years we will have players in the England team that have been inspired to play the game by what they have seen." from Trevor Sinclair Former England international
    Trevor SinclairFormer England international
  7. Get Involved #golionesses

    Japan 2-1 England

  8. Credit to Rafferty

    Japan 2-1 England

    Quote Message: Claire Rafferty holds down a steady job and credit to her, she has been determined and has come back from three anterior cruciate ligament injuries. There have been so many hard times and this is another but she will bounce back and so will the team. from Rachel Yankey England midfielder
    Rachel YankeyEngland midfielder
  9. A legacy has been left

    Japan 2-1 England

    Quote Message: The England players have definitely left a legacy and I hope it carries on. It has been amazing to see the attention they have received, the impact they have had and I really hope it continues. We will see a lot of players coming to the WSL. Players that have criticised our league and thought that it was not that strong have been proved wrong. This World Cup will see a lot more talented players from abroad come into the WSL. from Natasha Dowie Liverpool Ladies striker
    Natasha DowieLiverpool Ladies striker
  10. 'A defining experience'

    Japan 2-1 England

    Quote Message: I spoke to Laura Bassett two days ago and she was understandably relishing the chance to play in a World Cup semi-final for the first time. A defining experience, she said, and it is now, but for all the wrong reasons. Poor Laura. from BBC Sport's Alistair Magowan at Commonwealth Stadium:
    BBC Sport's Alistair Magowan at Commonwealth Stadium:
  11. 'Let's go for bronze'

    Japan 2-1 England

    Quote Message: I hope we inspire a generation to get into football. It wasn't the ending we hoped for and it's devastating really, football is a very cruel game. I'm lost for words. I would like to say to everyone thanks for your support, continue it in the next game against Germany and hopefully we can come home with a bronze medal. from Claire Rafferty England defender
    Claire RaffertyEngland defender
  12. Get Involved on 81111

    Japan 2-1 England

    SMS Message: The England men have a lot to live up to in Euro 2016. Immensely proud of the Lionesses. from Keith
    Keith
    SMS Message: We may have lacked a little composure but we were not going out because someone else wanted it more or worked harder - gutted but dead proud. from Thomas
    Thomas
  13. 'Bassett has been our rock'

    Japan 2-1 England

    Quote Message: I’m devastated, we put everything into this. Laura Bassett has been our rock. I know how much she wears her heart on her sleeve, she is a great example for any player out there and I know she will bounce back from it. In the end it just wasn’t meant to be. I am proud of how far the team has come and I know we’ll bounce back. from Toni Duggan England striker
    Toni DugganEngland striker
  14. MONTAGE

    Japan 2-1 England

    A BBC England World Cup heartache montage. These have been in storage for a good few years...

  15. 'Sampson has done a great job'

    Japan 2-1 England

    Quote Message: England have done really well. Psychologically they have got stronger than ever and credit to Mark Sampson. He went into the tournament under some criticism by taking injured players but they have got to the semi-final and he has done a great job. Have we got the best individual team? Perhaps not, but we've nearly got to the final of the World Cup through team work. It's not always about the technical side of the game, it's about how hard you work. from Natasha Dowie Liverpool Ladies striker
    Natasha DowieLiverpool Ladies striker
  16. Get Involved #golionesses

    Japan 2-1 England

  17. Post update

    Japan 2-1 England

    I thought Chris Waddle, Stuart Pearce, Gareth Southgate, David Batty and co had mined the real depths of World Cup heartache in an England shirt.

    But scoring an own goal in the dying seconds may just be even more heart-wrenching. Gutting.

    Spare a thought for Laura Bassett tonight.

    Laura Bassett
  18. Post update

    Japan 2-1 England

    Rachel Brown-Finnis

    Former England goalkeeper

    Quote Message: England should be very proud of what they have achieved over all. Today wasn't their day. I'm just devastated for them and especially Laura Bassett. She has come through years and years of not playing in major tournaments. Finally she got her chance to be a stalwart at the heart of defence. It's very cruel. They have shown so much strength in so many areas and so much depth. And for it all to be over in flash, to be all snatched away in the dying seconds has left us all speechless.
  19. 'The players have bought into Sampson's ideas'

    Japan 2-1 England

    Quote Message: Mark Sampson has done brilliantly. Tactically he has done really well and the players have bought into his ideas. The rotating the squad has done well and the players have looked fresh. In each game they have approached it in the right way and that has shown with the results they have got. from Trevor Sinclair Former England international
    Trevor SinclairFormer England international
  20. 'We've had an amazing journey'

    Japan 2-1 England

    Quote Message: I have no words to describe it, the only thing I have to say is that I am so proud of all the girls and staff. We’ve had an amazing journey but that’s football, it can be cruel sometimes but we have to try and pick ourselves up and play Germany on Saturday. These are a bunch of girls that give everything for the jersey and are great people. We want to take that into the game on Saturday. We have tried to perform and get to the World Cup final that we wanted, but it just wasn’t to be today. from Steph Houghton England captain
    Steph HoughtonEngland captain
    Laura Bassett
  21. 'A fluke goal got them through'

    Japan 2-1 England

    Quote Message: As a squad we are proud to push the world champions to the wire. We really pushed them, our game plan was spot on and a fluke goal has got them through. Laura Bassett feels like she has let everyone down but she has given everything for England. from Fara Williams England midfielder
    Fara WilliamsEngland midfielder
  22. Post update

    Japan 2-1 England

    Quote Message: What a cruel sport this is but you've got be so proud of this team. To go out like that is heartbreaking but no shame whatsoever. Lucy's so driven. She thinks there's no point competing unless she's going to be the best. All the talk before hand, was sincere. She thinks she can take this team on to bigger and better things. We'll go from strength to strength at the Euros. from George Bronze Brother of Lucy Bronze, speaking on 5 Live
    George BronzeBrother of Lucy Bronze, speaking on 5 Live
  23. 'That's what pride is'

    Japan 2-1 England

    SMS Message: Jodie Taylor crying in her post-match interview v Canada; The absolute devastation on Laura Bassett's face just after then game; It's the epitome of pride. Pride for England. I really wish they could teach the men's team what pride actually is. from Alan Hoey
    Alan Hoey
    SMS Message: Laura Bassett, hold your head up high!! Well done to all and unlucky! from Craig in Edinburgh
    Craig in Edinburgh
  24. 'England didn't deserve to lose'

    Japan 2-1 England

    Quote Message: It's sad to see. Someone who has had such a good game. Laura is such a good soldier and such a good person. I'm really upset. You see pictures like that and they didn't deserve to lose that game. I'm a bit choked up to be honest. from Natasha Dowie Liverpool Ladies striker
    Natasha DowieLiverpool Ladies striker
  25. Post update

    Japan 2-1 England

    England now play Germany on Saturday in the third/fourth place play-off. The game that nobody ever wants to play in. 

  26. 'They are still in the tournament'

    Japan 2-1 England

    Quote Message: The third place match is the last thing on England's minds but we are still in the tournament and want to finish the best that we can and they have to go out there and show that grit and determination against Germany. from Rachel Yankey Former England midfielder on BBC One
    Rachel YankeyFormer England midfielder on BBC One
  27. 'England were creating the better chances'

    Japan 2-1 England

    Quote Message: Laura Bassett had a great game and played really well. She had a great partnership with Steph Houghton. You have to credit Japan as they got the ball into an area of uncertainty, but Bassett is so unfortunate that it has nestled in the back of the net off the crossbar. In the second half England did really well and they were creating better chances. from Trevor Sinclair Former England international
    Trevor SinclairFormer England international
  28. 'They go home as heroes'

    Japan 2-1 England

    Quote Message: It really is heartbreaking. I think we have to first and foremost congratulate the players for an incredible tournament. Laura Bassett's name is on that scoresheet but she has epitomised the team. She has been courageous, strong and she doesn't deserve that [to score an own goal]. She is a hero, an absolute hero, that is how she will be remembered. I've told them it's OK to cry, they left everything on the field and it's a really tough way to go out. I'm so proud of them. We came here as a huge underdog with the weight of a nation on our back. We had critics and they have inspired a nation and they deserve to go home as heroes. from Mark Sampson England manager
    Mark SampsonEngland manager
  29. Post update

    Japan 2-1 England

    Jill Scott reacts
    Quote Message: I think the team have to be proud of themselves, they have made the reigning world champions look average. from Rachel Yankey Former England midfielder on BBC One
    Rachel YankeyFormer England midfielder on BBC One
  30. Post update

    ENGLAND OUT OF THE WORLD CUP

    Tears in the studio too as BBC Sport pundit and England international Tash Dowie comes to terms with the manner of that defeat. 

  31. Post update

    Japan 2-1 England

    The Daily Telegraph's man in the know...

  32. Post update

    Japan 2-1 England

    Sue Smith

    Former England forward

    Japan celebrates
    Quote Message: They didn't deserve it, one mistake, it is just devastating and I am completely speechless. They have to be proud of themselves, this is a horrible, horrible way to go out but England need to be happy with what they've done. In a couple of day's time when they've reflected on it, they’ll know what they've done for women’s football in this country.
  33. Post update

    ENGLAND OUT OF THE WORLD CUP

    England had 11 efforts on goal to Japan's four. Champions Japan had more of the ball and were in relative control for large periods but they didn't look like scoring - until Laura Bassett's cruel, cruel own goal...

  34. Post update

    ENGLAND OUT OF THE WORLD CUP

    Just when you thought the England men had put you through every inch of the emotional wringer, England women manage to throw away that one.

    Undeserved? You bet. Incredibly unlucky? Quite right. 

  35. 'A cruel, cruel game'

    Japan 2-1 England

    Rachel Brown-Finnis

    Former England goalkeeper

    Laura Bassett reacts
    Quote Message: This is sickening. It was a good counter by Japan, they got people forward. It was a tired lunge from Laura Bassett but it ended up in the top corner. England battled so well in this game and regardless of this result they should be so proud of what they have achieved in this tournament. But this is heartbreaking for this to happen. It is a cruel, cruel game.
  36. FULL-TIME

    ENGLAND ARE OUT OF THE WORLD CUP

    Japan's players celebrate

    Tears. Tears stream down the face of Laura Bassett. Nobody deserves to score an own goal in the closing stages of such a big game. 

    But England are out and it will be Japan who face United States in the final.

  37. 'You can see the devastation'

    Japan 2-1 England

    Sue Smith

    Former England forward

    Quote Message: Absolutely devastated for Laura Bassett here, it is a goal, it does go in, you can see straight away all their heads have gone down. It was just a quick break and that is what Japan are good at. You can see the devastation in her face.
  38. GOAL

    Japan 2-1 England - Laura Bassett (Own goal)

    Japan celebrate

    Heartbreaker. An absolute heartbreaker for England and for defender Laura Bassett in particular.

    Japan have hardly got behind England all game but an early cross in leaves them short of numbers. The ball is whipped in, Bassett has to cut it out and all she can do is loft it over the head of Karen Bardsley and into the net, slamming in off the underside of the crossbar. Cruel, cruel luck. 

  39. Post update

    Japan 1-1 England

    Sue Smith

    Former England forward

    Quote Message: It’s not been pretty but they have got their tactics right, Mark Sampson has set his team out the right way - they are still in it.
  40. Post update

    Japan 1-1 England

    Steph Houghton swings it over - out of play.

  41. Post update

    Japan 1-1 England

    Katie Chapman gets a foot in and wins a free-kick. Well in.

    One more ball in the mixer to come.

    THREE MINUTES ADDED ON...

  42. Post update

    Japan 1-1 England

    Keeper! Good grief, Japan goalkeeper Ayumi Kaihori makes a hash of a long ball forward and it so nearly falls for a white shirt. Japan hack it out though...

    TWO MINUTES left.

  43. Do your duty and support England

    Japan 1-1 England

    Comic Mark Steel is loving this match.

  44. Get involved #Go Lionesses

    Japan 1-1 England

    Steph Houghton challenges

    You are following this game from all over the world.

    Tim Burland: Following the BBC text commentary on the Tokyo underground. Ganbare England.

    Michael: Having to follow the blog whenever my boss walks away all the way down in New Zealand.

    Ben Jones: Watching while at work in Sydney. Go Lionesses show the men how it's done.

    A quick look at Google translate says 'Ganbare' means 'hang in there'.

    Contact us using #GoLionesses. Keep your comments coming in. Loving your work so far.

  45. Post update

    Japan 1-1 England

    Karen Carney is a class act though and has two goals to her name in the tournament already. She could prove the match-winner, that's what boss Mark Sampson will be hoping anyway. 

  46. SUBSTITUTION

    Japan 1-1 England

    Katie Chapman rallies the troops as England make a surprising sub. Fara Williams, goalscorer and England's best penalty taker, is off and Karen Carney is on.

    Could that be an error?

  47. Post update

    Japan 1-1 England

    Speaking for a nation....

  48. Post update

    Japan 1-1 England

    SEVEN MINUTES left. Ellen White holds it up well, no support and she gets a free-kick.

  49. Get Involved on 81111

    Japan 1-1 England

    SMS Message: Can we all just pause and realise that England are holding their own against the hosts of the World Cup? They've both got their own style and tactics, but there's only one team I would watch every day of the week. from AbFab
    AbFab
  50. Post update

    Japan 1-1 England

    Jade Moore pops a neat pass over the top into the run of Ellen White, but the flag is raised against the industrious White. 

    Penalties? Looking likely.

  51. Get involved #GoLionesses

    Japan 1-1 England

    Matt Haslett:  This has "England Penalty Heartbreak" written all over it.

    Neale:  This second half is some of the most exciting football so far in this WWC.

    Charlie Barton:  For a proper England performance Rafferty will be sent off, we'll battle with 10 to penalties where we ultimately fall short.

    Tweet us using #GoLionesses or leave a message on the BBC Sport Facebook page.

  52. 'Don't-lose-it-now-time

    Japan 1-1 England

    We are just over 10 minutes from a potential nerve-shredding period of extra time. This is, as a colleague puts it, 'don't-lose-it-now-time.'

  53. Post update

    Japan 1-1 England

  54. HITS THE WOODWORK

    Japan 1-1 England

    Almost a total fluke as left-back Claire Rafferty goes a club too big on her cross from the left and sails the ball over the keeper and on to the top of the crossbar...

  55. 'England need to double up on Iwabuchi'

    Japan 1-1 England

    Former England captain Faye White.

  56. CLOSE!

    Japan 1-1 England

    Alex Scott is beaten too easily by the impressive Mana Iwabuchi and the cross comes in, Mizuho Sakaguchi meets it but drifts her header wide.

    Anyone for a late winner or are we going deep into the night?

  57. SUBSTITUTION

    Japan 1-1 England

    Alex Scott, solid as you like, is a very good replacement for Lucy Bronze, who leaves the field injured. England's momentum has just been stemmed. 

  58. 'England are tiring a bit'

    Japan 1-1 England

    Rachel Brown-Finnis

    Former England goalkeeper

    Quote Message: It looks like the England players are tiring a bit and they are not able to get forward to support the forwards as they did in the first half. The conditions are possibly getting to England and maybe the gameplan will change accordingly.
  59. CLOSE!

    Japan 1-1 England

    Japan a much more dangerous side with sub Mana Iwabuchi on the pitch. She should surely have started, based on a few minutes anyway.

    England have trouble as Lucy Bronze and goalkeeper Karen Bardsley both go over with injuries. Can they carry on?

  60. Get involved #GoLionesses

    Japan 1-1 England

    Katie Chapman heads the ball

    Lfcway: England should have been ahead. Let's hope they don't rue those missed chances.

    Niel Bassom: Really hoping my neighbours don't mind my screams at 1:20am watching England Lionesses.

    Stacy Phillips: Shouted a little loudly on all three goal-scoring opportunities there. Heaven knows how I'll react I'd we actually score again.

  61. Post update

    Japan 1-1 England

    And how! Mana Iwabuchi makes an immediate impression, skinning Lucy Bronze to get into the box and flash over a low cross which causes havoc. England just about hack it out...

  62. Post update

    Japan 1-1 England

    Sue Smith

    Former England forward

    Quote Message: Substitute Mana Iwabuchi is Japan’s young prodigy. Very energetic player, quick feet, England have to be aware of her.
  63. Post update

    Japan 1-1 England

  64. SUBSTITUTION

    Japan 1-1 England

    Headline writer's dream Shinobu Ohno comes off for Japan with Mana Iwabuchi on in her place.

  65. 'England's best chance from a set-piece'

    Japan 1-1 England

    Rachel Brown-Finnis

    Former England goalkeeper

    Quote Message: She should have scored. It was a beautiful, driven corner from Fara Williams it landed on Jill Scott's head after she had made a good run to get goalside, but Jill misdirected her header. It was England's best chance from a set-piece.
  66. Post update

    Japan 1-1 England

    Japan could quite easily be 3-1 down now. And they will know that. What can the reigning champions do about England's pressure?

  67. Post update

    Japan 1-1 England

    Sue Smith

    Former England forward

    Quote Message: I thought that was in, excellent delivery from Fara Williams and Jill Scott just gets in front of her marker. England need to keep up this pressure on Japan, they are causing all sorts of problems.
  68. Post update

    Japan 1-1 England

    Japan might be bossing possession and hammering England in terms of pass accuracy but how often have they touched the ball in the England area? Just the penalty....and possibly the foul?

    Japan touchmap
  69. CLOSE!

    Japan 1-1 England

    Jill Scott reacts

    If England don't make it into the World Cup final they will look back on this little spell of dominance with huge regret. Jill Scott is inches away from scoring as she meets Fara Williams' corner with a powerful header.

    She gets a great contact, but heads wide! She has to score really. Has to ...

  70. Post update

    Japan 1-1 England

    Sue Smith

    Former England forward

    Quote Message: This is really good play from England, they are having more shots, Mark Sampson has definitely said to Ellen White have a shot, have a go at the goalkeeper.
  71. Post update

    Japan 1-1 England

    Rachel Brown-Finnis

    Former England goalkeeper

    Quote Message: We have seen Toni Duggan take a couple of strikes in the same fashion. She got over the ball and really sent the crossbar rattling. That's the closest she has come to scoring.
  72. GREAT SAVE!

    Japan 1-1 England

    Ellen White reacts

    Well played again! England don't have much of the ball but they certainly make the most of it. Seconds after Toni Duggan rattled the bar Ellen White curls in a shot which Ayumi Kaihori touches wide.

  73. 'White will run and run'

    Japan 1-1 England

    Rachel Brown-Finnis

    Former England goalkeeper

    Quote Message: Ellen White has gone into a central role and she will be looking to terrorise the Japan defence. A real strength is that she will run and run.
  74. HITS THE WOODWORK

    Japan 1-1 England

    Great effort! Toni Duggan takes a touch and smashes a shot against the frame of the goal from 22 yards! Brilliant effort from the Manchester City player.

  75. Post update

    Japan 1-1 England

    Sue Smith

    Former England forward

    Quote Message: Ellen White will do exactly the same as Jodie Taylor, she will work those channels, work defenders, make it difficult for them.
  76. SUBSTITUTION

    Japan 1-1 England

    There is a change up front Johnny M, but it's not Eni Aluko who replaces Jodie Taylor but Ellen White.

    She scored a great lob against Japan in 2011.

  77. Get involved #GoLionesses

    Japan 1-1 England

    Shehneela Ahmed:  Come on ladies give your all and enjoy the experience. Moments like this are special and help bring the nation together.

    Johnny Magrinho:  Is it not time for Aluko yet? We need that driving force to get in behind their defence - she can cause them a lot of problems.

    Tweet us, using #GoLionesses or leave a message on the BBC Sport Facebook page.

  78. Post update

    Japan 1-1 England

    Mizuho Sakaguchi

    Japan have had 68% possession in the second half but (whisper it) they've done nothing with it. The style of Barca maybe, at a push, but no cutting edge.

  79. Post update

    Japan 1-1 England

    Steph Houghton floats another of those Bruno N'Gotty style free-kicks from halfway onto the head of Lucy Bronze, but this time she can only drift it onto the roof of the net. 

    Who's going to be the first to mention the 'p' word...?

  80. Post update

    Japan 1-1 England

    Sue Smith

    Former England forward

    Quote Message: Excellent from Karen Bardsley, really quick off the line, commanding and brave, that’s what you want from your goalkeeper, gives the defence that bit of confidence.
  81. 'Get on with the game'

    Japan 1-1 England

    Comedian John Bishop has given his views on the two penalties.

  82. Post update

    Japan 1-1 England

    Best sporting event you've enjoyed in bed? Steady on.

    A few Ashes series would appear in the list. England hearts get racing as goalkeeper Karen Bardsley comes off her line to sweep up - but she gets the ball cleanly.

    Don't give referee Anna-Marie Keighley any reason to give another penalty...

  83. Post update

    Japan 1-1 England

    Now this is a superb discussion point. Pity we're in the second half of the biggest England game in some considerable time. 

    SMS Message: Watching this Women's England semi final reminds me of other Great British sporting events I have watched from my bed.....Redgrave winning his fifth gold in Sydney, and Rhona Martin winning curling gold in Salt Lake City. So don't let me down girls! C'mon England. from Mangle in Penzance.
    Mangle in Penzance.
  84. Post update

    Japan 1-1 England

    Jodie Taylor ran her socks off against Canada and had a busy opening 20 minutes tonight but she's looking a bit bushed to me now. Could be a change afoot. England's midfield looks rock solid. 

  85. Post update

    Japan 1-1 England

    Jill Scott scowls at the Australian assistant referee as a clear corner is not given. Lucy Bronze's long throw then causes more havoc in the Japanese defence. Just get the ball in the mixer England...

  86. 'Stick with it England'

    Japan 1-1 England

    Quote Message: I thought we started brightly and didn't wilt under the pressure of Japan having possession. I don’t think either of them were penalties. England need to stick with it, maybe bring on a little more of an attack-minded midfielder if we have to go for it. from Faye White Former England captain
    Faye WhiteFormer England captain
  87. 'Japan are trying to force the play'

    Japan 1-1 England

    Laura Bassett makes a tackle
    Quote Message: When Japan are getting near England's 18-yard box, Japan are making the wrong decisions as they are trying to force the play. from Trevor Sinclair Former England international
    Trevor SinclairFormer England international
  88. KICK-OFF

    Japan 1-1 England

    And we are back under way in Edmonton.

  89. Huddle time

    Japan 1-1 England

    Steph Houghton gets her side into another huddle. Inspirational.

  90. Post update

    Japan 1-1 England

    Was it, wasn't it? Unsure? Watch England's penalty again using the highlights tab.

  91. Post update

    Japan 1-1 England

    England team

    England could be 45 minutes from the World Cup final. There's a sentence I'll probably never write again in my journalistic career. Keep it together...

  92. Post update

    Japan 1-1 England

    SMS Message: Well that has made the decision of whether or not to go to bed early a lot more easier. Fantastic response, Japan still dangerous on the break. But I am beginning to think we may win this whole thing. Come on Lionesses! from Luke Cubbage - Manchester
    Luke Cubbage - Manchester
    SMS Message: For me, there's the England football team and the England men's football team. These ladies don't deserve to be treated second best imo. Finally this country has produced some footballers that I really want to get behind. from Simon, York
    Simon, York
  93. Post update

    Japan 1-1 England

  94. Post update

    Japan 1-1 England

    How we all feeling? Still well with it?You are staying with us in mega numbers. Good work. 

    Last time I was up this late on a Wednesday night I was in Tokyo Joe's in Preston with Ricardo Fuller..

  95. 'England can hurt Japan'

    Japan 1-1 England

    Quote Message: We've got areas where we can hurt Japan. The back four of Japan looks slow and I think we can use the pace of Jill Scott. from Natasha Dowie Liverpool Ladies striker
    Natasha DowieLiverpool Ladies striker
  96. 'No goalkeeper would've saved it'

    Japan 1-1 England

    Former England international Trevor Sinclair has been giving his views on the penalty England conceded.

    Quote Message: Claire Rafferty will be disappointed with the challenge, but it's very clear that the contact was outside the box. If I was Mark Sampson I would be telling Claire to get goal-side as she had the pace to get back. But the penalty was taken with real class - no goalkeeper would've saved it. from Trevor Sinclair Former England international
    Trevor SinclairFormer England international
  97. A squad game

    Japan 1-1 England

    Who could come off the bench to win this for England?

    Karen Carney? Fran Kirby? Eni Aluko? Ellen White?England are not short of attacking options. 

  98. 'It was a penalty'

    Japan 1-1 England

    Steph Houghton is fouled
    Quote Message: It’s Yuki Ogimi on Steph Houghton's ankle, she actually takes her out. It's a penalty, the referee has got that one right. from Rachel Yankey Former England midfielder
    Rachel YankeyFormer England midfielder
  99. Post update

    Japan 1-1 England

  100. Post update

    Japan 1-1 England

    Rachel Brown-Finnis

    Former England goalkeeper

    Quote Message: The girls have stepped up into the game. It was a bit cagey at the beginning with possession given up cheaply by both teams. But they have improved, both teams have been awarded penalties and England did well to get themselves back into the game.
  101. 'England can regroup'

    Japan 1-1 England

    Quote Message: I felt Japan were a bit cocky and disrespectful to England before the game and that showed in the first few minutes as they couldn't keep hold of possession. To get that penalty to make it 1-1, means England can regroup. from Natasha Dowie Liverpool Ladies striker
    Natasha DowieLiverpool Ladies striker
  102. Post update

    Japan 1-1 England

    He's not joking....

  103. 'England getting better'

    Japan 1-1 England

    Quote Message: England have been doing better every game and they have gone into this match looking like they believe they can beat Japan. from Rachel Yankey Former England midfielder
    Rachel YankeyFormer England midfielder
  104. Post update

    Japan 1-1 England

    'Stonewall' says Trevor Sinclair when analysing England's penalty. With a glint in his eye and a smile on his face.

    That was as clear cut a penalty as one that Trevor was involved in - Michael Owen's fall over Mauricio Pochettino in 2002...

  105. Post update

    Japan 1-1 England

    You can watch the Japan penalty now using the highlights tab. Was it or wasn't it?

  106. 'They don't know when they're beaten'

    Japan 1-1 England

    Fara Williams celebrates
    Quote Message: The English bench erupted when Fara Williams put that one away, these players never know when they are beaten. Sitting at the same end, there was no way Ayumi Kaihori was going to save that. Williams hit the back of the net before the Japanese goalkeeper had a chance of stopping it. from Alistair Magowan BBC Sport at Commonwealth Stadium
    Alistair MagowanBBC Sport at Commonwealth Stadium
  107. If you fall asleep

    Japan 1-1 England

    It's been a stinking hot day, let's be honest. So if you do fall asleep during our finest hour you'll be pleased to learn that there is a re-run from 08:00 BST tomorrow morning.

    It will be available on the iPlayer and repeated on the Red Button. You can't miss it.

  108. Get involved #GoLionesses

    Japan 1-1 England

    Stacy Phillips:  Once again, Steph Houghton showing her mettle as captain to help start the England comeback.

  109. HALF-TIME

    Japan 1-1 England

    Great half. Japan as expected keeping the ball the better, England a real threat on set plays and counters. 

  110. Penalty ref!?

    Japan 1-1 England

    It could be argued that England's penalty was on the soft side.

    But evidence would suggest that Japan's penalty should have been a free-kick, that the foul started outside the box.

    Neither were penalties for me. Call it a draw and get on with it. 

    The Japan penalty
  111. Post update

    Japan 1-1 England

    Japan line up in their innovative 'bus-stop'corner routine but England defend it well. Can they counter? Jill Scott loses out.

  112. Penalties galore

    Japan 1-1 England

  113. Post update

    Japan 1-1 England

    Rachel Brown-Finnis

    Former England goalkeeper

    Quote Message: What a fantastic response from England and you can see how much it means for them. It was a well-drilled penalty and the goalkeeper could not get near it. Fara Williams leads by example and she will put herself up there to take the pressure off the team time and time again so I'm absolutely thrilled for her.
  114. Post update

    Japan 1-1 England

    Don't even think about going to sleep. This is a compelling, gripping semi-final. England have once again showed great resolve to come from behind.

  115. Post update

    Japan 1-1 England

    Sue Smith

    Former England forward

    Fara Williams takes a penalty
    Quote Message: Fara Williams, she’s an experienced player, she’s stepped up and you can see how much it means to the players, they’re straight over to the bench. Well done Fara Williams, I was nervous for her.
  116. GOAL

    Japan 1-1 England - Fara Williams (Pen)

    Fara Williams celebrates

    She scored a penalty against Colombia, but this is an altogether different kettle of fish. Never mind, Fara Williams steps up and slams home, a lovely strike. England deservedly level - even if the penalty award was, er, questionable...

  117. Post update

    Japan 1-0 England

    Rachel Brown-Finnis

    Former England goalkeeper

    Quote Message: Steph Houghton has been the player to change it again. Ogimi steps on her heel and that is a penalty.
  118. PENALTY to ENGLAND

    Japan 1-0 England

    Never been a penalty! Steph Houghton goes down but that was soft. One soft pen each...

  119. Post update

    Japan 1-0 England

  120. Get involved #golionesses

    Japan 1-0 England

    Kevin Belgium:  There have been too many dubious pens in this tournament. Video evidence is needed.

    Naveed Afzal:  That was such a needless foul by Rafferty. England ladies now need to be careful of not going gung-ho as there is plenty of time.

    Gambeanö Snitch:  Duggan doesn't do enough for England. Comes across like a Heskey type player. Need Kirby/Carney on to help Taylor.

  121. Post update

    Japan 1-0 England

    England work it well down the left and tee up Claire Rafferty takes a strike from 25 yards, it's on her wrong foot though and she swings it well over the top. England win a corner though, they're well in this...

  122. Post update

    Japan 1-0 England

  123. Post update

    Japan 1-0 England

    Lucy Bronze wins a throw-in high up the pitch and Japan don't look comfortable with set-pieces. Toni Duggan almost gets a shot off but she is well closed down. England look a threat.

  124. Post update

    Japan 1-0 England

    Sue Smith

    Former England forward

    Quote Message: Aya Miyami is a quality player, she was so long waiting to take the penalty and I thought this is Karen Bardsley’s but she sent her the wrong way - that’s confidence for you.
  125. Post update

    Japan 1-0 England

  126. Post update

    Japan 1-0 England

    Rachel Brown-Finnis

    Former England goalkeeper

    Quote Message: That is hugely disappointing for England. There had not been much between the two teams but England need to quickly respond.
  127. Post update

    Japan 1-0 England

    Soft. that's what that penalty decision was. England don't need to panic, there's all sorts of time left.

  128. Post update

    Japan 1-0 England

    Sue Smith

    Former England forward

    Aya Miyama celebrates
    Quote Message: It’s a good run from Saori Ariyoshi and she gets the wrong side of Claire Rafferty, she does have two arms on her back, and when you do that the referee is going to give a penalty isn’t she?
  129. GOAL

    Japan 1-0 England - Aya Miyami (Pen)

    Aya Miyama takes a penalty

    Japan captain Aya Miyami takes an age, a stuttering run-up, but she eventually steps up and steers into the bottom corner. England with it all to do now, Japan don't concede many.

  130. Post update

    Japan 0-0 England

    Rachel Brown-Finnis

    Former England goalkeeper

    Quote Message: It starts outside the box. With her momentum she will fall into the box. It was untidy from Claire Rafferty.
  131. PENALTY to JAPAN

    Claire Rafferty commits a foul

    Claire Rafferty gets the wrong side and puts an arm on the back of Saori Ariyoshi - that's a penalty...

  132. Post update

    Japan 0-0 England

    England are nearly as big as lies you've told your parents. That is legacy.

  133. Worldwide trending

    Japan 0-0 England

  134. 'England are thinking about their passing'

    Japan 0-0 England

    Rachel Brown-Finnis

    Former England goalkeeper

    Quote Message: The difference between England's performance today and in other games is that the long balls forward are not just aimless, they are thinking about the pass and trying to keep possession.
  135. Post update

    Japan 0-0 England

    Well played Toni Duggan. She collects a throw on the left, turns inside and wriggles past two defenders to get a cross in but it's well cut out by goalkeeper Ayumi Kaihori.

    Jill Scott then crosses for Duggan but Dugs leans back and fires her volley well over. Difficult take, she was 15 yards out and the ball was coming from a height, it needed a Mark Hughes style scissor kick. That was more Merv Hughes.

  136. Post update

    Japan 0-0 England

    Nothing wrong with the ball over the top, if it works. Japan have clearly got the edge on keeping possession but England loo to have the physical edge. Jill Scott holds off two defenders easily down the right to illustrate my point. 

  137. Get involved #golionesses

    Japan 0-0 England

    Luke:  England ladies are a ball over the top team nothing else going for us it's not pretty, but whatever it takes to win.

    Anthony Shaw:  Wow... Japan are so fast on the counter.

    Jack Pearce: Watching the game live on my Emirates flight thanks to onboard wifi, worrying thing is that the plane is headed for Tokyo.

    Tweet us using #golionesses or leave a message on the BBC Sport Facebook page.

  138. Post update

    Japan 0-0 England

    Sue Smith

    Former England forward

    Quote Message: It was just a snap-shot and Toni Duggan has the ability to do that and we have seen it in the Women’s Super League.
  139. Post update

    Japan 0-0 England

    Mark Sampson applauds
    Quote Message: Mark Sampson applauding energetically as Japan goalkeeper Ayumi Kaihori lumps the ball out of play following a spell of pressing form his players. The pattern of game is set now, England will be without the ball for long periods. from Alistair Magowan BBC Sport at Commonwealth Stadium
    Alistair MagowanBBC Sport at Commonwealth Stadium
  140. Post update

    Japan 0-0 England

    England goalkeeper Karen Bardsley always gives you a chance, and she misjudges a long ball forward and is relieved to see the ball bounce over her and over the vacant goal too. She was rescued by an offside flag but that was not very convincing...

    Fans still arriving at the ground as Toni Duggan swivels to strike over the bar from a tight angle. Not afraid to have a dig, is Dugs.

  141. Post update

    Japan 0-0 England

    Sue Smith

    Former England forward

    Quote Message: Japan break at such pace and are very dynamic but all through the tournament, that final ball has not been clinical enough.
  142. Post update

    Japan 0-0 England

  143. Post update

    Japan 0-0 England

    Katie Chapman digs out a free-kick for England with some good pressing in midfield. Steph Houghton lumps the free-kick from halfway into the mixer, Big Sam will enjoy that one, but goalkeeper Ayumi Kaihori passes the test, coming over a clutch of bodies to hang on well.

  144. 'England are the more exciting team'

    Japan 0-0 England

    Rachel Brown-Finnis

    Former England goalkeeper

    Nahomi Kawasumi
    Quote Message: Japan have won all their games by one goal and they have a very structured way of playing - that's how they play regardless of who they are playing. They play the same way and grind out results. It's a good machine, they are together and everyone knows their roles. England have not played the same way in any game so they are the more exciting team as you don't know what we're going to do.

    You can listen to live commentary on BBC Radio 5 live.

  145. Post update

    Japan 0-0 England

    Sue Smith

    Former England forward

    Quote Message: Jodie Taylor is very good at holding the ball up and waiting for other players to come along, she has made a real difference.
  146. Post update

    Japan 0-0 England

    If I had to describe Japan's style of play I would say 'over-elaborate'. Lots of nice passes in midfield but so far they have failed to put it all together at the right time. England will have to be patient though, that's evident already.

  147. Post update

    Japan 0-0 England

    That's the spirit Nick...

    SMS Message: Wow, just got back from weeks in deepest Africa with no internet or mobile to discover the England women are in the semis, forget the jetlag I'll have to stay up and watch this one. from Nick
    Nick
  148. Post update

    Japan 0-0 England

    Sue Smith

    Former England forward

    Quote Message: England are doing really well at closing the play down and stopping Japan from getting going.
  149. Post update

    Japan 0-0 England

    Toni Duggan dribbles

    Jodie Taylor is England's out ball and she finds Toni Duggan to her left. The Manchester City striker is short of support and tries a shot from a full 35 yards - it's easily blocked though. 

  150. Post update

    Japan 0-0 England

    Solid opening 10 minutes from England, with Jodie Taylor's strike the only chance of the night so far. 

  151. The scene in Canada

    Japan 0-0 England

  152. Post update

    Japan 0-0 England

    England keeping their shape in the early stages, Toni Duggan on the left wing, Jill Scott down the right and Jodie Taylor putting in a Trojan shift through the middle. Japan have had 56% of the ball so far.

  153. 'Set-pieces could be a real point for England'

    Japan 0-0 England

    Rachel Brown-Finnis

    Former England goalkeeper

    Fara Williams
    Quote Message: England need to concentrate on retaining possession. The Japanese team are notorious for holding on to the ball. Set-pieces could be a real point for England to focus on and where they might get some success.
  154. Post update

    Japan 0-0 England

    Fara Williams tries to find Lucy Bronze with the set-piece that brought joy against Canada but it's cleared away. To labour the point, England have a few players who tower over their opponents. 

  155. Post update

    Japan 0-0 England

    Quote Message: What you might not be able to pick up at home is how vocal the Japanese players are. World-class communication as well as a world-class team. from Alistair Magowan BBC Sport at Commonwealth Stadium
    Alistair MagowanBBC Sport at Commonwealth Stadium
  156. Post update

    Japan 0-0 England

    England free-kick. Wide. Good position...

  157. Get involved #golionesses

    Japan 0-0 England

    Michael Kitchener:  Can Tottenham sign Jodie Taylor please she is so much better than Soldado.

    Lord Camomile:  Japan already resorting to long-ball tactics.

    Ffion Gwynne:  Nice start, let's keep this pressure up.

    Tweet us using #golionesses or leave a message on the BBC Sport Facebook page.

  158. Post update

    Japan 0-0 England

    Lucy Bronze runs with possession

    Fara Williams spreads play with a cracker of a crossfield pass to Lucy Bronze, who ploughs on down the right and wins a corner. England have a big height advantage - but pull the corner back and it's wasted. 

  159. Post update

    Japan 0-0 England

    Sue Smith

    Former England forward

    Quote Message: Japan are just quite happy to keep the ball and tire the other team out. They are a very fit team.
  160. Away!

    Japan 0-0 England

    Japan are certainly seeing most of the ball but England are well drilled, ready for it. Nahomi Kawasumi evades Claire Rafferty down the Japanese right but her cross is well watched by Laura Bassett and cleared away. You can hear captain Steph Houghton from a mile away. 

  161. Can we not knock it?!

    Japan 0-0 England

    Japan have the best passing accuracy of all teams to take part in the World Cup (82%), while England have the third worst (62.9%). England completed just 46.8% of their passes against Canada, the lowest figure posted at the tournament by any nation.

    Men or women, the story is often the same...

  162. 'Sampson has created a real unit'

    Japan 0-0 England

    Rachel Brown-Finnis

    Former England goalkeeper

    Quote Message: The togetherness in the England squad is something that has been transformed under Mark Sampson. He has created a real unit and that for me is the most phenomenal change that will bring success.
  163. CLOSE!

    Japan 0-0 England

    Jodie Taylor shoots

    What a start! Brilliant from Jodie Taylor, who flicks the ball on and then tries her arm from 25 yards, a dipping strike which has goalkeeper Ayumi Kaihori seriously worried but the ball drifts just wide! England almost in dreamland.

  164. KICK-OFF

    Japan 0-0 England

    The semi-final is go!

  165. Spare ticket mate?

    Japan v England (00:00 BST)

    Unfortunately there are a lot of empty seats at the Commonwealth Stadium. Steph Houghton gets her team-mates in a huddle. I picked out the phrase 'for the women's game' in her speech. Legacy girls, legacy...

  166. Post update

    Japan v England (00:00 BST)

    After the call to the England team from Prince William...

  167. LINE-UPS

    Japan v England (00:00 BST)

    Japan Ladies : Kaihori, Ariyoshi, Iwashimizu, Kumagai, Sameshima, Kawasumi, Utsugi, Sakaguchi, Miyama, Ohno, Ogimi. Subs: Fukumoto, Yamane, Kinga, Sawa, Kamionobe, Tanaka, Sugasawa, Iwabuchi, Kawamura, Nagasato, Kitahara.

    England Ladies: Bardsley, Bronze, Houghton, Bassett, Rafferty, Moore, Williams, Jill Scott, Taylor, Chapman, Duggan. Subs : Chamberlain, Telford, Alex Scott, Nobbs, Aluko, Carney, Greenwood, Stoney, Potter, Sanderson, Kirby, White. 

    Referee : Anna-Marie Keighley (New Zealand)

  168. 'Houghton has shown she is a real leader'

    Japan 0-0 England (00:00 BST)

    Rachel Brown-Finnis

    Former England goalkeeper on BBC Radio 5 live

    Quote Message: Steph Houghton has really grown into the role of England captain. It was put on her at a young age but she has shown she is a real leader.
  169. Smiles all round

    Japan v England (00:00 BST)

    At least 9/10 for effort for England during the anthem. A cracking rendition with plenty of smiles on faces. Nerves? You wouldn't guess it. Toni Duggan and boss Mark Sampson are loving this. It's refreshing to see.

  170. Please stand for the national anthems

    Japan v England (00:00 BST)

    ...that includes you at home...

  171. 'Discipline a must'

    Japan v England (00:00 BST)

    Mark Sampson
    Quote Message: Both teams play different styles of football, you expect Japan to keep possession and make England work. England have to remain disciplined and I think where they can do well today is on set-pieces because they have got set-piece specialists. from Sue Smith Former England midfielder in Edmonton
    Sue SmithFormer England midfielder in Edmonton
  172. Post update

    Japan v England (00:00 BST)

    There is a definite size advantage in England's favour. Hit Jill Scott - that's what I say. Possession is over-rated. 

  173. Get involved #golionesses

    Japan v England (00:00 BST)

    Stacy Phillips: I've napped, I've got my brew, and I'm pumped up for this game. C'mon you Lionesses. The whole of England is behind you.

    JavelBleach: Lionesses can't afford to "play safe"/defensive like v. France. They're BETTER than Japan & they need to believe it.

    Richard Poole:  Watching from the outer banks in North Carolina, USA. We have to win so we play the USA. I need bragging rights. Go England.

    Keep your comments on the match coming in, using the hashtag #golionesses or via the BBC Sport Facebook page.

    Quote Message:
    A fan in Edmonton
  174. 'An honest player'

    Japan v England (00:00 BST)

    Quote Message: Jodie Taylor had surgery on her knee just before the World Cup and now she is scoring in the tournament. She is an honest player and works hard. Her hold up play is good and she hassles defenders. She is a very intelligent centre-forward, which is what you need in that sole role up front. from Natasha Dowie Liverpool Ladies striker
    Natasha DowieLiverpool Ladies striker
  175. Post update

    Japan v England (00:00 BST)

    Well, not quite the pinnacle Sue but we get your drift.

    PLAYERS IN THE TUNNEL ALERT. Steph Houghton leads England out as the officials check the players for jewellery. Here we go...

  176. 'They believe'

    Japan v England (00:00 BST)

    Quote Message: It’s the pinnacle of any player's career to play in a World Cup semi-final, this is what dreams are made of and these girls now believe that they can win it. from Sue Smith Former England midfielder in Edmonton
    Sue SmithFormer England midfielder in Edmonton
  177. Post update

    Quote Message: Had an interesting chat with Lucy Bronze while doing a Q&A yesterday. She said she doesn’t want to score any more goals following her heroics against Canada and Norway, and would prefer to concentrate on defending. She’s not a big fan of the spotlight, but you can’t help feel that the 23-year-old has more to give in an attacking sense and the force is with her in Canada. from Alistair Magowan BBC Sport at Commonwealth Stadium
    Alistair MagowanBBC Sport at Commonwealth Stadium
  178. Post update

    Japan v England (00:00 BST)

    Faye White is buzzing. We're buzzing. You're buzzing.

    If England start like they did against Canada Jonathan Pearce may implode...

  179. 'England have momentum behind them'

    Japan v England (00:00 BST)

    Quote Message: This is huge. It has blown me away. I'm usually on the inside but I have got to see it from the outside and they are on the front and back pages. It means young girls can see the progression this team has made. This is one of those games you want to take in your stride. It is about being in the best shape. They have gained momentum as the tournament went on. from Faye White Former England defender
    Faye WhiteFormer England defender
  180. 'The general seeing who's ready for the fight'

    Japan v England (00:00 BST)

    Quote Message: England always finish their warm-up with a few sprints, lined-up along with half-way line with Mark Sampson watching them front on. It’s like a scene from an army battalion with the general seeing who’s ready for the fight. As the players retreat to the dressing room, Sampson then remains on the pitch, alone with his thoughts. Interesting to watch such a unique routine. from Alistair Magowan BBC Sport at Commonwealth Stadium, Edmonton
    Alistair MagowanBBC Sport at Commonwealth Stadium, Edmonton
    England boss Mark Sampson
  181. 'Set-pieces could be key'

    Japan v England (00:00 BST)

    Quote Message: England have to be clinical today. They need to be patient as well. Japan don't concede a lot of goals. England haven't kept a clean sheet for a while now. Set-pieces could be huge for England. They have been good on those during this tournament. from Natasha Dowie Liverpool Ladies striker
    Natasha DowieLiverpool Ladies striker
  182. Almost time

    Japan v England (00:00 BST)

    All set for kick off? We are just over 10 minutes away now...

  183. Get Involved on 81111

    Japan v England (00:00 BST)

    SMS Message: Never watched women's football before watching the Mexico game and was so pleased in the quality it has brought me back for every game since. You're raising the profile of a section of the sport that's normally overlooked. Keep it going. Here's hoping I keep my record of only seeing England win. from Lee, Hull
    Lee, Hull
  184. 'Japan execute their passes well'

    Japan v England (00:00 BST)

    Quote Message: Japan play a 4-4-2 and are very strict with their formation. They're resolute and are very difficult to break down. They all execute their passes well, no sloppy passes, which is what we have been complaining about with England. from Trevor Sinclair Former England international
    Trevor SinclairFormer England international
  185. 'We were so confident'

    Japan v England (00:00 BST)

    BBC pundit Rachel Yankey scored in the 2011 Women's World Cup against Japan. How did England feel going into that match?

    Quote Message: That day we were so confident and everyone went out there and believed we could beat Japan. from Rachel Yankey Former England midfielder on BBC One
    Rachel YankeyFormer England midfielder on BBC One
  186. Last time we met...

    Japan v England (00:00 BST)

    England beat Japan 2-0 in the group stages of the 2011 World Cup - and they remain the last team to beat Japan in a World Cup.

    A repeat performance tonight and England will be up against United States in the final on Sunday night. Let's not get too carried away though...

  187. 'Devastating to miss Rio'

    Japan v England (00:00 BST)

    Quote Message: It’s a massive blow not to be involved in the Olympics in 2016. Having been there and having players who are able to tell the story of 2012, to then not go to Rio is devastating. from Rachel Yankey Former England midfielder on BBC One
    Rachel YankeyFormer England midfielder on BBC One
  188. 'Kick the sport on'

    Japan v England (00:00 BST)

    Quote Message: I was surprised after the Olympics that the crowds didn't turn up for the Women's Premier League. But hopefully this will help kick the sport on and create more awareness for women's football in England. from Natasha Dowie Liverpool Ladies striker
    Natasha DowieLiverpool Ladies striker
  189. Making sure it matters

    Japan v England (00:00 BST)

    You're not a self-respecting sporting event these days if you don't have a legacy.

    Quote Message: The team are thrilled with the support that they have had. Thanks to everybody who has got behind the team. We have had many celebrities and top players from the men’s game tweeting and getting behind The Lionesses. This is a fantastic opportunity for us to convert those people who are getting up in the middle of the night, to make sure that they come and watch England after the World Cup and the club game as well. One of the most important legacies is encouraging more and more girls to play football. from Kelly Simmons Football Association director of women’s football
    Kelly SimmonsFootball Association director of women’s football
  190. The manager knows best

    Japan v England (00:00 BST)

    Quote Message: Eniola Aluko is on the bench but the manager has said he wants to use everybody and plans for every team they are playing against and he must feel other centre forwards will do a different job to the one Eni will. from Rachel Yankey Former England midfielder on BBC One
    Rachel YankeyFormer England midfielder on BBC One
  191. Post update

    Japan v England (00:00 BST)

    What will be going through the minds of captain Steph Houghton and her team-mates now? Twenty minutes from kick-off. The biggest night of their lives. Nerves? Of course...

  192. 'Duggan plays the England way'

    Japan v England (00:00 BST)

    Quote Message: Toni Duggan is a very unselfish player and a fantastic character, she is young, wants to get involved, doesn’t want to give the ball away. Defensively she’ll track and will never give up, she does it for the team and that’s the England style - they are working for each other and working hard. from Rachel Yankey Former England midfielder on BBC One
    Rachel YankeyFormer England midfielder on BBC One
  193. Switching sides

    Japan v England (00:00 BST)

    Supported Canada? Bit disappointed after their QF exit? Don't worry too much, just flip your banner around and write on the other side.

    Support for England
  194. Hit on the break

    Japan v England (00:00 BST)

    A reminder then that opponents Japan are reigning World Champions and will not give up their title easily.

    England coach Mark Sampson said this week that he  would expect Japan to have 70% of possession so brace yourself for a disciplined, counter-attacking display from the Lionesses. 

  195. 'We need to be dynamic'

    Japan v England (00:00 BST)

    Quote Message: When we have not got the ball we have to defend well, stay on our feet and be disciplined. It is going to be very difficult to break Japan down, we need to be dynamic, go with speed and if we can get the tempo right and make the right decisions then we will win. from Trevor Sinclair Former England international
    Trevor SinclairFormer England international
  196. 'Usually it's just me Mum!'

    Japan v England (00:00 BST)

    Toni Duggan looks embarrassed when she's told that David Beckham, Wayne Rooney and Prince William have all been wishing her well this week.

    'Usually it's just me Mum saying do your best'!

  197. 'Stretching the defence'

    Japan v England (00:00 BST)

    Quote Message: Toni Duggan will stretch the defence and she likes to shoot. She will bring a lot to the team. And you have Karen Carney to bring on later in the game. from Natasha Dowie Liverpool Ladies striker
    Natasha DowieLiverpool Ladies striker
  198. Get involved #golionesses

    Japan v England (00:00 Bs

    How are you going to watch the game?

    Paul Shaddock:  Plan of action is a quick power nap then up to watch the England Lionesses stick it to Japan in the Fifa Women's World Cup.

    brent smith:  Staying up. Good vibe about tonight's game as late as it is I can't go to bed and miss the opportunity of witnessing history.

    Jane Zacharzewski:  Enjoying the match build up but worried I won't make it to the end of the match. It's going to be a late one.

    Get involved by tweeting using the hashtag #golionesses or leave a message on the BBC Sport Facebook page.

  199. Just like watching Barca

    Japan v England (00:00 BST)

    Chelsea Ladies manager Emma Hayes gives her thoughts on tonight's semi-final.

  200. 'People have been surprised at the quality'

    Japan v England (00:00 BST)

    Quote Message: The reaction I've noticed is that people have been surprised at the quality. People have been impressed with the humbleness of the players. They want to play for their country and they have worked their socks off. from Trevor Sinclair Former England international
    Trevor SinclairFormer England international

    You can watch live coverage of the match by pressing the play button at the top of this page (UK only).

  201. 'She thinks she's Maradona'

    Japan v England (00:00 BST)

    Goalscoring right-back Lucy Bronze has walked the BBC cameras through the team, and told us all of their traits.

    Keep an eye on midfielder Jill Scott. I've heard her called 'Crouchy' before due to her long limbs but Bronze also says Scott 'thinks she's Maradona in training with all the tricks.'

    Can Scott be England's match-winner tonight?

  202. Leaving it all out there

    Japan v England (00:00 BST)

    BBC pundit Alan Shearer speaks for a nation.

  203. Post update

    Japan v England (00:00 BST)

    Thirty-five minutes to go. Time for a final brew before England begin a World Cup semi-final.

    Were you watching in 1990?

  204. Incredible England

    Japan v England (00:00 BST)

    Quote Message: You wanted England to do well but you were wondering if they could. They got out the group stage with some great performances. If they can make the final it would be an incredible thing. from Natasha Dowie Liverpool Ladies striker
    Natasha DowieLiverpool Ladies striker
  205. Banging the drum for England

    Japan v England (00:00 BST)

    Drum? Check. Poster? Check. Scarf? Check. Cuddly toy? Erm, check. England fans know how to prepare for a football match.

  206. 'Go out and enjoy it'

    Japan v England (00:00 BST)

    MOTD presenter and veteran of England's 1990 World Cup semi-final Gary Lineker believes this campaign could be 'a watershed moment' for women's football in England.

    He also tells the women's team to 'go out and enjoy the game as that's when you play at your best.'

  207. One does approve

    Japan v England (00:00 BST)

    The England squad received a surprise phone call from the Duke of Cambridge ahead of their morning tactics meeting on Wednesday.

    The Duke told the squad: "Many, many congratulations to you all for what you have achieved so far and best of luck for today's match.

    "Everyone is following your progress and you are making the country proud."

    The Duke, who is president of the Football Association, added: "There is a fantastic buzz around the country. You are a true inspiration to all football fans, boys and girls, back home.

    "Japan will be a tough team to beat but you are proving you are one of the best teams in the world and really making history.

    "Enjoy the game. We all have every faith in you and thank you for giving us all another excuse to stay up late and watch more football! Best of luck. Go get 'em."

    Rousing...

    Prince William
    Image caption: Prince William met the England squad before they jetted out
  208. 1990 memories

    Japan v England (00:00 BST)

    I wasn't crying then at that 1990 montage - I just had Sir Bobby Robson in my eyes...

  209. Good luck from Liverpool

    Japan v England (00:00 BST)

  210. WATCH NOW

    Japan v England (00:00 BST)

    Join Jacqui Oatley and the team as live BBC One coverage starts now. You can watch at the top of the screen. Just press play. 

  211. 'Crowd of 35,000 expected'

    Japan v England (00:00 BST)

    Japan fans
    Quote Message: Meet the Augustines from Edmonton, guess which team they are supporting? Nicky (bottom right) is in bullish mood, opting for a 10-0 win for Japan. His brother, Alex, is more conservative with a 1-0 prediction. Quite quiet outside so far, with early ticket sales expected to reach 35,000. Capacity is 56,000 here. from Alistair Magowan BBC Sport at Commonwealth Stadium, Edmonton
    Alistair MagowanBBC Sport at Commonwealth Stadium, Edmonton
  212. Get Involved 81111

    Japan v England (00:00 BST)

    SMS Message: To all England women: You have done our nation proud by reaching the semi-final. We all believe in you that you can reach the final. Remember to have PRIDE , PASSION AND BELIEF. Even if we don't make it to final still have your heads held high. Because you are all winners from Ish from Leicester
    Ish from Leicester
  213. How to follow...

    Japan v England (00:00 BST)

    If you're awake for the next few hours you can't miss England's game.

    Online of course you are covered here, there is build-up to the game on BBC Radio 5 live from 23:30 BST while coverage on BBC One starts at 23:10 BST.

    Sorry fans of 'The Met' but football is the only show in town tonight...

    BBC
    Image caption: BBC Two liked women's football before you did...
  214. KissCam

    Japan v England (00:00 BST)

    England's players look remarkably relaxed considering the occasion. Left-back Claire Rafferty grabs an intruding camera and plants a smacker right on the lens as the players take a last look around the stadium.

  215. Ready to go

    Japan v England (00:00 BST)

  216. 'We have to be at our best'

    Japan v England (00:00 BST)

    Quote Message: These are the 23 with the opportunity, they have to go to levels they have never been to before to get their country into a World Cup final. They need to be at their best today to win. from Mark Sampson England boss
    Mark SampsonEngland boss
  217. What's on the radio?

    Japan v England (00:00 BST)

    Mark Sampson is not a man short of confidence and he gave the waiting Fifa cameras a wink as he marched off the team bus and down the tunnel. 

    Defender Alex Scott looks to be in charge of pre-game music, what do we reckon is on their playlist? Lose Yourself by Eminem followed by World in Motion would get my vote...

  218. Big in Japan

    Japan v England (00:00 BST)

    The media centre at the stadium
    Quote Message: Packed media room here in the bowels of the stadium, easily the busiest so far as you might expect for a World Cup semi-final. I'd guess that about 80% are from Japanese media, with about 10% from England. TV audiences have reached over 10m for Japanese games during this tournament, and with kick-off in Tokyo at 9am, they are sure to get another bumper audience for this match. from Alistair Magowan BBC Sport at Commonwealth Stadium
    Alistair MagowanBBC Sport at Commonwealth Stadium
  219. Lucy Bronze Q&A

    Japan v England (00:00 BST)

    Lucy Bronze

    Will she change her name to 'Lucy Gold' if England win World Cup and can she continue her goalscoring run against Japan?

    England defender Lucy Bronze has been answering your questions on the Match of the Day Facebook page.

    You can watch the Q&A by clicking on this link.

  220. "Watch out for Ogimi"

    Japan v England (00:00 BST)

    Quote Message: England boss Mark Sampson makes one change to the side which beat Canada in the quarter-final. Toni Duggan comes into replace Karen Carney, with Jodie Taylor remaining up top. Expect a 4-5-1 in defence, with Duggan and Jill Scott springing forward to support the lone striker. Goalkeeper Karen Bardsley is fine after an allergic reaction in the last round. Watch out for former Chelsea striker Yuki Ogimi in the Japan side. from Alistair Magowan BBC Sport at Commonwealth Stadium
    Alistair MagowanBBC Sport at Commonwealth Stadium
  221. Checking the surface

    Japan v England (00:00 BST)

    BBC sport news presenter Katie Gornall is at the Commonwealth Stadium in Edmonton.

  222. Get involved #golionesses

    Japan v England (00:00 BST)

    Kritt Normsaskul:  "Getting massively excited about our  #Lionesses  vs. Japan! Come on girls. We are all right behind to you."

    Paul Mulligan:  "Good luck to  #EnglandWomen  tonight against  #Japan . The form team - surely an  #England  team couldn't win another  #WorldCup ?"

    DaveDisco : "I t's finally arrived three lions on a shirt and hoping my new heroes  @FranKirbyy  and  @stephhoughton2  will score 2-0  #Lionesses ."

    We want to hear your comments on tonight's game. Send us your thoughts using the hashtag #golionesses or leave a message on the BBC Sport Facebook page.

  223. The tactical battle

    Japan v England (00:00 BST)

    Often likened to Barcelona for their playing style, Japan are led by head coach Norio Sasaki, who ramped up the pre-match rhetoric by saying his players are "superior" to England's and that he is "over-confident" for the game.

    It is certainly true they have the ability to out-pass England, who have had inferior possession in three of their five games.

    Mark Sampson, whose side have been more direct at the World Cup, conceded that Japan can cause his side problems in small spaces but has drawn plaudits for his adaptability during the tournament.

    What will bringing Toni Duggan in mean? She is a striker but I'd imagine she'll be wide left...

  224. A nation united

    Japan v England (00:00 BST)

  225. England's line-up

    Japan v England (00:00 BST)

  226. BreakingOne change for England

    Japan v England (00:00 BST)

    England do indeed make one change from the side which started against Canada. Karen Carney misses out and Toni Duggan is in.

    Japan are unchanged.

  227. Post update

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    England's campaign has contained some key moments, and BBC pitchside reporter Tina Daheley has picked her top five in this cracking cartoon strip.

    Check it out.

    Lionesses Roar
  228. He's been there, done that, now it's their turn

    Japan v England (00:00 BST)

    England's 1990 World Cup full back Paul Parker urges Mark Sampson's players to seize their moment in the spotlight.

  229. On the pitch

    Japan v England (00:00 BST)

    The England players take a stroll around the surface of the Commonwealth Stadium in Edmonton. Coach Mark Sampson will have told his chosen XI who is starting, and we shall find out very soon.

  230. Post update

    Japan v England (00:00 BST)

    Stephen Harper, living the dream. Those days don't last forever you know.

    Portugal, Colombia, the world is watching the Commonwealth Stadium in Edmonton tonight...

  231. Get involved #golionesses

    Japan v England (00:00 BST)

    We asked how you are following tonight's game. These are some of your responses.

    Adam Comstive: In a hotel in Portugal. Baby is asleep. Wi-Fi is limited. The barman laughed when I asked if game would be on. Help.

    Stephen Harper: I've finished university and my masters doesn't start until Autumn so I get to be a big layabout and stay up late.

    William Bruce: Very limited wifi access in my office here in Colombia makes it so hard to follow England in the Women's World Cup GO ENGLAND!

    We want to hear your comments on tonight's game. Send us your thoughts using the hashtag #golionesses or leave a message on the BBC Sport Facebook page.

  232. Families fly in

    Japan v England (00:00 BST)

  233. We're all spectators tonight

    Japan v England (00:00 BST)

    Is this the closest Wayne Rooney will get to a World Cup semi-final?

  234. Who are the key players?

    Japan v England (00:00 BST)

    Right-back Lucy Bronze has scored two crucial goals, while up front a fit-again Jodie Taylor was excellent against Canada - though Mark Sampson has also used Eni Aluko, Toni Duggan and Fran Kirby in that position so far.

    Goalkeeper Karen Bardsley is available after an allergic reaction affecting her eye forced her off against Canada, while Sampson says midfielder Jordan Nobbs can feature, despite a post on her social media account before the Canada game saying her World Cup was over because of a hamstring injury.

    One or two of the women could become heroes in the next few hours...

    Lucy Bronze
    Image caption: Lucy Bronze has scored twice from right-back in the tournament
  235. Who are the key players?

    Japan v England (00:00 BST)

    We should have confirmed team news for tonight's game soon - but the early whispers are that Toni Duggan is in.

    Coach Mark Sampson has changed his side around for every match, using 22 of his 23-player squad, making it difficult to predict who will start tonight.

    But captain Steph Houghton is a certainty in central defence, as the Manchester City player is a leader at both ends of the pitch and a threat from set-pieces. She scored the crucial equaliser against Norway and scored three times for Team GB during the 2012 Olympics.

    In midfield Fara Williams - who was homeless for seven years - forms a partnership with Jade Moore, who needed heart surgery at the age of 17 and claims that football literally saved her life, while the skilful Karen Carney has scored twice from the left-hand side.

    Karen Carney
    Image caption: Can Karen Carney magic up a winner?
  236. Time for one more Tweet

    Japan v England (00:00 BST)

    The countdown to kick-off begins in the England camp and these players are ready to get their game faces on.

  237. What are England's chances?

    Japan v England (00:00 BST)

    Japan v England

    Japan provide ominous opposition.

    The World Cup holders have won all of their matches in Canada and have conceded just twice in five games.

    But England beat them in the group stages of the last World Cup in Germany, and Japan were unconvincing in their quarter-final win over Australia.

  238. Get Involved #golionesses

    Japan v England (00:00 BST)

    England's first World Cup semi-final in 25 years. If that's not a genuinely big sporting event, I don't know what is. I heard an 83-year-old woman on the radio at lunchtime who has got a serious case of World Cup fever. She is going to bed at 21:00 BST tonight and has set her alarm for 23:30 to get up in time. Living the dream.

    But how are you following tonight? Have you been hooked in by the England team's performances? Has your daughter/sister/aunty been practicing her Cruyff turns? Or are you still a naysayer who hasn't got the bug?

    England

    We want to know.

    Get in touch at #golionesses, pop on to the BBC Sport Facebook page or BBC Sport's Google+ area.

    You can also text us on 81111 in the UK only - don't forget to say who you are and where you are texting from.

  239. Permission to stay up? Granted...

    Japan v England (00:00 BST)

    Letter

    England boss Mark Sampson, a 32-year-old Welshman who as recently as 2011 was managing Welsh amateur side Taff's Well AFC, has called for his adopted country to "stay with the team" and has even drafted a cut-out-and-keep letter for fans to help persuade bosses to agree to a late start on Thursday morning.

    Has anyone asked for a late start? I grant you permission...

  240. Are you up for it?

    Japan v England (00:00 BST)

    More than 1.6m people stayed through the early hours of Sunday morning to follow Mark Sampson's side in their quarter-final win over Canada and we could have a shed load more tonight.

    We hope so anyway! 

  241. Footballers unite

    Japan v England (00:00 BST)

    England's Lionesses get the thumbs up Twitter style from three Lions.

  242. 2-1 to the Engerland?

    Japan v England (00:00 BST)

    England started the tournament slowly but have improved throughout, winning their last four matches 2-1 to move into the last four.

    A repeat would do England just fine tonight. A place in the final on Sunday awaits the winners...

  243. Once in a generation...

    Japan v England (00:00 BST)

    Twenty-five years ago this week England came so near, and yet so far, in a World Cup semi-final.

    In a match rendered legendary by the tears of Paul Gascoigne, the goal of Gary Lineker and the penalties of Chris Waddle and Stuart Pearce, Sir Bobby Robson's side were a penalty away from their first final in 24 years.

    Paul gascoigne
    Image caption: Will we have a repeat of Gazza's tears tonight?

    Of course, it wasn't to be.

    A small version of myself - enjoying his first World Cup - naively thought that such occasions would happen again soon enough. How wrong I was.

    But here we are. Another continent, another generation, another gender. But 25 years on from that night in Turin we have an evening in Edmonton to savour.

    England's women face Japan for a place in Sunday night's final.

    Can the Lionesses do it?

    Steph Houghton
    Image caption: Will Steph Hougton be the first England captain since Sir Bobby Moore to lead a side out in a World Cup final?