The Women’s World Cup has been full of action and once again as another match-day has not failed to disappoint. England and The Netherlands impressed to top groups D and E respectively, while Denmark won comfortably over Haiti to book their spot in the last 16. The United States were underwhelming against tournament newcomers Portugal, yet still managed to sneak through to the last 16.

Vietnam vs The Netherlands (0-7)

The Netherlands displayed a dominant attacking performance, securing a remarkable 7-0 victory over Vietnam in Group E. Esmee Brugts stole the show with two fantastic strikes, helping the Dutch storm into the Round of 16 as group winners. The goals came thick and fast, with Lieke Martens opening the scoring early on, followed by strikes from Katja Snoeijs and Jill Roord. Brugts' two brilliant goals, one from long range and another curling effort, showcased her exceptional talent. Danielle van de Donk and Roord added to the scoreline, resulting in the tournament's biggest win so far. Vietnam's hopes ended with a disappointing three consecutive defeats in their first Women's World Cup campaign.

Portugal vs The United States (0-0)

The USA's goalless draw with Portugal secured their place in the last 16 but allowed the Netherlands to leapfrog them to the top of Group E, setting up a rematch with current Olympic champions, Sweden. Despite the Americans advancing, their performance was uninspiring and disjointed, following the pattern of their previous two group matches. Portugal, heading home with pride, held their ground against the 4-time champions and top-ranked team, creating some opportunities of their own. The US team, supported by a large crowd, endured a tense first half with few chances. Former USA player, Carli Lloyd tore into the national team saying that they are very lucky to not be heading home. The United States will need to raise their playing level against Sweden if they want to keep their dreams of winning three World Cup titles in a row alive.

China vs England (1-6)

England secured a convincing 6-1 victory over China PR at Hindmarsh Stadium, claiming the top spot in Group D and booking a last-16 clash with Nigeria in the FIFA Women's World Cup™. The outcome was never in doubt as Sarina Wiegman's side dominated the first half. Alessia Russo opened the scoring early, followed by Lauren Hemp's strike and a superb curler from Lauren James. Despite a VAR review ruling out a goal for offside, England continued their attacking display. Wang Shuang converted a penalty for China, but James responded with another stunning volley, while substitutes Chloe Kelly and Rachel Daly added further goals to complete England's emphatic triumph.

Haiti vs Denmark (0-2)

Denmark secured their spot in the knockout stage for the first time since 1995 with a close win over Haiti in Perth. Captain Pernille Harder opened the scoring with a penalty midway through the first half, and Sanne Troelsgaard sealed the victory in added time. Denmark started strong, but an early goal by Simone Boye was disallowed due to offside. Harder's penalty proved crucial in settling any nerves, and despite another disallowed goal later on, substitute Troelsgaard ensured the win with a confident finish. Denmark's triumph sets up a clash with co-hosts Australia in Sydney on 7 August.

Player Spotlight - Esmee Brugts

Esmee Virginia Brugts, born on 28 July 2003, is a talented Dutch professional football player known for her forward position. She currently represents PSV in the Vrouwen Eredivisie and also plays for the Netherlands national team.

Brugts' football journey began at a young age, starting with SV Heinenoord when she was just 5 years old, before moving to FC Binnenmaas eight years later. In 2020, at the age of 16, she signed her first contract with PSV, becoming a highly sought-after player. She made her debut for PSV in August 2020 and made a significant impact in her first season, playing 13 league games and scoring three goals. Brugts also played in the final of the KNVB Women's Cup, helping PSV secure a victory against ADO Den Haag.

On the international stage, Brugts has represented various Netherlands youth teams. Her senior national team debut came on 16 February 2022, in a match against Brazil during the 2022 Tournoi de France. She has since continued to impress, scoring her first goal for the national team in a match against Cyprus on 8 April 2022. Brugts played a crucial role in securing her country's qualification for the 2023 FIFA Women's World Cup, scoring a last-minute goal against Iceland to top Group C.

As a testament to her skills and contributions to the team, Brugts was named in the Netherlands' squad for the 2023 FIFA Women's World Cup, and has not failed to impress as she was able to grab two spectacular goals against Vietnam in a crucial group-defining match.