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Pelova's assist helps Netherlands draw with USA

Victoria Pelova holds off the USWNT's Crystal Dunn

In a rematch of the 2019 Women's World Cup final, the Netherlands put in a determined display to hold the reigning champions United States to a 1-1 draw.

The US Women's National Team headed to Australia and New Zealand buoyed by the prospect of back-to-back World Cups and they saw off Vietnam comfortably in their opening game of the tournament. 

However, the Dutch struck first to set off alarm bells in the US camp, with our own Victoria Pelova assisting another familiar face: ex-Gunner, Jill Roord.

After her initial shot through a packed penalty area was blocked, Pelova regained possession and unlocked Roord at the edge of the area. This time, the ball nestled in the bottom left-hand corner to give the Netherlands a surprise early advantage.

That slender lead over the Americans remained in place until the hour mark when USWNT captain Lindsay Horan unleashed a bullet header to equalise.

With Group E still undecided, the Netherlands will need a result against Vietnam on August 1 to clinch a spot in the knockout stages. 

Foord assists but Australia suffer surprise loss to Nigeria

Caitlin Foord tackles Nigeria's Christy Ucheibe

Over in Brisbane, it was considerably less good news for our other two Gunners in action, as Nigeria came from behind to defeat co-hosts Australia and put their World Cup hopes at risk.

Captain Steph Catley had an early chance for the Matildas after forging her way into the area, only to see her quality shot parried away for a corner. 

Just before the stroke of half-time, Caitlin Foord whizzed down the left wing and cut back to Emily van Egmond, who slotted home easily.

As the Aussies looked set to go down the tunnel with an advantage, Nigeria stunned the hosts with a quick-fire equaliser through Uchenna Kanu.

The second half only spelt more trouble for Australia as Nigeria scored twice more through Osinachi Ohale and Arsenal alum, Asisat Oshoala.

A consolation goal from Manchester City's Alanna Kennedy came too late in stoppage time to rescue a point, meaning the Matildas have a much tougher route to the knockout stages.

A must-win game against Canada awaits on July 31, kicking off at 11am GMT.