England head into their third and final group game at the Women’s World Cup today needing just a draw against China to seal top spot.
The Lionesses are yet hit top form at the tournament but have won their opening two games and are on the verge of qualifying for the last-16.
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Sarina Wiegman has overseen successive 1-0 wins over Haiti and Denmark to leave them three points clear in Group D despite their mixed performances.
But they were dealt a hammer blow after Keira Walsh became the latest to add to England’s injury crisis after she was stretched off with a knee issue against the Danes.
England will now look to maintain their unbeaten record this lunchtime by seeking revenge on China, who beat them 2-1 when they they last met in 2015.
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England vs China: talkSPORT coverage
This Women’s World Cup group game is set to take place on Tuesday, August 1.
The match at the Hindmarsh Stadium in Adelaide is due to kick-off at 12pm in the UK.
talkSPORT 2 will have live coverage from Australia, with Faye Carruthers serving as your host.
Commentary will then come from Joe Shennan and former England striker Lianne Sanderson.
Charlotte Richardson with also be providing live updates on talkSPORT while talkSPORT.com will be running a live blog as well.
To tune in to talkSPORT or talkSPORT 2 through the website, click HERE for the live stream.
u can also listen via the talkSPORT app, on DAB digital radio, through your smart speaker and on 1089 or 1053 AM.
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Follow all the latest Women’s World Cup results, fixtures and group standings in our new match centre HERE.
England vs China: Team news
England will be without star midfielder Walsh through injury, but the Barcelona ace has avoided rupturing her anterior cruciate ligament.
Walsh will remain at England’s Terrigal World Cup base for her recovery but is yet to be confirmed what part if any she can play during the rest of the tournament.
Laura Coombs is expected to deputise in her absence while Lauren James’ winner against Denmark should retain her spot in attack.
China will be without Zhang Rui as she serves a suspension after being sent off in the 1-0 win over Haiti.
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England vs China: What has been said?
Upon discovering that England had drawn China in the group stage, Wiegman said: “They are in transition a little bit, or they were in transition.
“At the Olympics they were struggling, they have a new coach and won the Asian Cup.”
On facing England, China’s manager, Shui Qingxia, told CGTN: “They are definitely strong opponents, but that doesn’t mean we must give up our own advantage.”
Women’s World Cup on talkSPORT
Listen to live commentary of the 2023 Women’s World Cup on talkSPORT, with every England game live across our network.
And you can follow all the World Cup results, keep up-to-date with the latest fixtures and see the group standings in our new match centre HERE.
