Lordanic: We’re running out of words for James’ brilliance (1:38)Marissa Lordanic and Mark Ogden react to England’s emphatic win over China in their final group stage game. (1:38)
ADELAIDE, Australia — This was a perfect evening for England. They were without Keira Walsh, they had a new-look 3-5-2 formation and coach Sarina Wiegman had made more changes than she had ever made in a major tournament. But, for all the shifting sands, they were completely dominant as they swiped aside China 6-1 to reach the round of 16 at the Women’s World Cup.
Wiegman routinely dodges talking about individuals but, in a match where there were so many impressive showings, it’s hard not to highlight the stunning performance of Lauren James as she played a key role in five of England’s goals — scoring two and setting up three others.