SOCCER: WOMEN'S WORLD CUP FINALS:FRANCE AND Germany qualified for the quarter-finals of the women's World Cup last night after victories over Canada and Nigeria respectively.

Germany, the defending champions and host nation, beat Nigeria 1-0, with midfielder Simone Laudehr scoring with a shot from 13 yards after Nigeria failed to clear Celia Okoyino Da Mbabi’s free-kick in the 54th minute in Frankfurt.

And France crushed Canada 4-0 with two goals coming from Gaetane Thiney. The 25-year-old headed in from close range after 24 minutes and added another with a 20-metre strike before goals from Camille Abily and Elodie Tomis condemned Canada to a second successive defeat in the tournament.

“That was a fantastic performance,” France coach Bruno Bini said. “It was difficult at the start but we recovered well.”

France, also 1-0 winners over Nigeria in their opening game, took control and struck after 24 minutes with Thiney heading in from 10 metres after Elise Bussaglia’s cross was deflected and Canada twice failed to clear.

Marie-LaureDelie should have scored early in the second half when she broke free only to see her shot smothered by goalkeeper Erin McLeod.

Thiney, courtesy of yet another defensive error, quickly made amends with a powerful drive that flew in off the post.

Canada captain Christine Sinclair did her best to lift her side but Avily made it 3-0 when she drilled in a Sandrine Soubeyrand corner in the 67th minute.

Tomis then showed off her pace, beating two defenders and rounding McLeod for France’s fourth goal.

In today’s Group B games, England take on New Zealand in Dresden (kick-off 5.15pm Irish time). England drew their first game with Mexico, while New Zealand lost to Japan, so the tie is a must-win game for both.

Japan can claim a quarter-final spot if they defeat Mexico today in Leverkusen (kick-off 2pm Irish time).