England women’s under-17s goalkeeper Rebekah Dowsett was "so happy" after coming off the bench to win the World Cup quarter-final penalty shoot-out against Japan.

Dowsett was called upon in the closing stages on the match and did not let head coach Natalie Henderson down, saving twice in the shoot-out to secure a 4-1 victory.

Describing her delight, she said: "Honestly, I’m so happy.

"Every person in the squad has played now and every person has their strengths. I believe penalties is mine and I’m just so pleased I could prove it to the world.

"I don’t put pressure on myself with penalties because I know I’m not expected to save them. But I was confident going into it and now everybody is so excited.

"It’s such a great opportunity to be in a World Cup semi-final."

Head coach Natalie Henderson echoed Dowsett’s delight, revealing that she intended to let her side celebrate their victory before focus turns to the Spain game on Thursday night.

She said: "I feel so proud of the players and staff right now. We talk about being a team that always finds a way, regardless of the challenges.

"We’re not playing the prettiest football but we’re finding ways to get over the line. Pride is the main emotion tonight.

"We’re not going to take away from their moment tonight. We will celebrate with each other and then tomorrow we will rest, recover and look at Spain.

"These tournaments at youth level are so important for the development of these players. We hope they will play for the Lionesses one day and this is part of their journey."