USA are through to the semi-finals of the Women's World Cup after hard-fought 1-0 win over China.

The Stars and Stripes almost made a perfect start in Ottawa when Amy Rodriguez found herself one-on-one with Wang Fei, but her attempt to chip the keeper saw the ball drift harmlessly wide of goal.

On 20 minutes, the US came close to breaking the deadlock after a cross from Tobin Heath was met by the diving header of Kelly O'Hara, whose effort was inches away from the target.

Jill Ellis's side continued to probe during the opening period and again had a chance to forge a lead after Julie Johnstone flashed a header over the bar.

China spent much of the first half defending their own penalty area, but almost fell behind minutes before half time when Wang needed to punch away Carli Lloyd's free kick.

However, Lloyd wouldn't be denied for long as she rose highest to meet Johnston's cross before heading beyond a helpless Wang in the second half.

Rodriguez nearly added a second, only for her goal-bound shot to be headed away by Jun Ma, while Christen Press hit the crossbar from outside the area.

USA continued to create chances to win the game late on, but Press missed two further opportunities.

However, she wasn't punished as her team held on to win the game.

Written by
Chris O'Keefe