Brazil and Norway Advance

Brazil and Norway earned a spot in the Women's World Cup on Sunday by defeating Australia and host nation China, respectively.

After taking a commanding two goal lead, Brazil had to hold off a never-say-die Australia side to earn a spot in the semifinal with a 3-2 victory at Tianjin Olympic Center Stadium on Sunday.

The South America side had a dream start with Formiga opening the scoring in the 4th minute. Marta added to the scoreline and her World Cup Golden Boot aspirations with her fifth goal of the tournament coming from the penalty spot in the 23rd minute.

The Matilda's fought back and leveled the score with goals from Lisa De Vanna in the 36th minute and Lauren Colthorpe in the 68th minute.

Jorge Barcellos side could not be held down and Cristiane knocked in the game winner in the 75th minute.

Brazil will now prepare for their re-match with the United States on Thursday.

Norway had the unenviable quaterfinal task of sending the host nation, China, home with no silver and that is exactly what the UEFA side accomplished. Isablell Herlovsen scored in the 32nd minute in the 1-0 win.

Norway then defended well, facing 21 shots to their 5, to claim a spot in the semifinal. They will now face regional rival Germany on Wednesday.

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