Today at the World Cup: Ireland knocked out after Canada defeat

Ireland were knocked out of the Women’s World Cup while Japan and Spain progressed.

Ireland’s Katie McCabe after her team were elimiated from the World Cup (AP)

Ireland crashed out of the Women’s World Cup after Canada came from behind to beat them 2-1 on Wednesday. Spain and Japan reached the last 16 with a game to spare.

Here, the PA news agency takes a look at all of Wednesday’s action.

Spain cruise into last 16

Jenni Hermoso and Alba Redondo scored twice as Spain thumped Zambia 5-0 to reach the last 16.

One of the tournament favourites made the knockout stages with a game to spare having already beaten Costa Rica in their first match.

Teresa Abelleira opened the scoring before Hermoso and Redondo took charge as Spain eased to victory.

Japan ease past Costa Rica

Japan also qualified for the last 16 with a routine win over Costa Rica. Quickfire first-half goals from Hikaru Naomoto and Aoba Fujino saw the 2011 champions through.

Japan and Spain will battle it out for top spot in their final Group C game when they face each other on Monday.

Canada fight back to break Irish hearts

Ireland bowed out of the tournament after Canada came from behind to win in Group B. Captain Katie McCabe gave Ireland the lead when she scored straight from a corner after just four minutes.

Megan Connolly’s own goal levelled just before half-time and Adriana Leon grabbed Canada’s winner eight minutes after the break.

Post of the day

Quote of the day

I'm just heartbroken for the girls because of how we played. I'm just heartbroken

Ireland captain Katie McCabe

Up next

Group E: USA vs Netherlands (2am, Wellington Regional Stadium) Group E: Portugal vs Vietnam (830am, Waikato Stadium) Group B: Australia vs Nigeria (11am, Brisbane Stadium)