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U17 World Cup: Lionesses progress to semi-finals

England U17s celebrate their Euros semi-final win this summer

The young Lionesses are through to the U17 World Cup semi-finals, after coming from behind twice to defeat Japan in a penalty shootout.

Laila Harbert captained England to a comeback victory, dictating the tempo from the base of midfield. The England skipper was also one of four players to score from the spot in the all-important shootout.

Goalkeeper Hope McSheffrey and centre-back Cecily Wellesley-Smith completed the Arsenal representation in the England starting XI. Tara Junaid and Sophie Harwood were both introduced in the second half to invigorate the side.

Spain are the final obstacle on England’s route to the World Cup final - a familiar rival for the Lionesses after the two sides met in the U17s Euro final this summer.