England injury blow and China maintain the pressure on Women's World Cup 2023 day nine

England eked out a nervy 1-0 win over Denmark to keep their FIFA Women’s World Cup campaign on track but lost star player Keira Walsh to injury.

Chelsea’s Lauren James scored a stunning goal to announce herself on the world stage before the pin was taken out of the game with the suspected knee injury to Walsh.

In the other game in England’s group, China defied a player-disadvantage to defeat Haiti 1-0 and ensure the race for qualification will go down to the final game.

And in Group E, South Africa let another lead slip in a 2-2 draw with Argentina to hamper both sides’ chances of progressing.

England 1-0 Denmark

The Lionesses are not quite roaring yet despite a 1-0 win over Denmark which moved them to the verge of qualifying for the knockout stages.

James’ long-range effort sparked England into life in just the sixth minute with their first goal from open play in 343 minutes.

She had more chances later in the first half, with former City right back Lucy Bronze also proving creative, but her lack of communication and cohesion with captain Millie Bright opened England up to Denmark counter-attacks.

England’s attacking intent then went out the window as Walsh was forced off with what appeared to be a serious injury.

The former City midfielder appeared to say to the England medical staff ‘I’ve done my knee’ before being carried off on a stretcher.

The Lionesses struggled to regain their momentum prior to halftime and then faced a late rally from Denmark.

Amalie Vangsgaard had scored the late winner for Denmark against China and headed against the post in the closing stages as England hung on for a crucial victory.

Head coach Sarina Wiegman said: “We played well, scored that goal and then had a little stage in