Canada battle back to shatter Ireland's World Cup dream

Manchester United forward Adriana Leon ignited Canada's Women's World Cup campaign on Wednesday with the winner in a 2-1 victory to end Ireland's hopes.

The pressure was on Olympic champions Canada after being held to a goalless draw against Nigeria but they fought back in Perth after the worst start possible.

They were left stunned in the fourth minute when Arsenal midfielder Katie McCabe scored direct from a corner, much to the delight of the 17,065 fans, most of whom were loudly cheering for Ireland in the rain.

But Canada clawed back through an own goal from Megan Connolly just before half-time before Leon provided the winner in the 53rd minute.

Canada moved top of Group B with four points and took a step closer to the last 16, with Australia facing Nigeria in Brisbane on Thursday in the group.

"That could be the making of us," said Canada coach Bev Priestman.

"We wobbled in the first-half. Our bravery wasn't there. I felt we played a little scared. I reminded them at half-time that we are Olympic champions."

In a concern for Canada ahead of their next match against Australia, captain Christine Sinclair – who had come on as a second-half substitute – appeared to be limping late in the contest.

"I haven't had a medical update yet. I'll have to get an understanding of that and find out what's next," Priestman said.

THIS ANGLE OF KATIE MCCABE'S GOAL