England avoided a disgrace at group stage as midfielder Jill Scott and Jessica Clark turned a 0-1 deficit against New Zealand to seal quarterfinal spot at the women's World Cup on Friday.

New Zealand flabbergasted group favorite England with an early lead, at the 18th minute, through striker Sarah Gregorius who utilized a black out by England's defence to slot home for the surprising opener.

England remained absolutely stunned and unable to establish their strategy although the "All Whites" staged a well positioned defence.

After the break, things changed as England pilled on the pressure to play New Zealand tired.

As the match progressed England exploited New Zealand's decreasing stamina to score one goal at the 63rd minute through Jill Scott who headed home a cross for the equalizer followed by the winner at the 81st minute by Jessica Clarke to eliminate New Zealand from competition.

Japan sit on top of Group B with 6 points followed by England with 4 points. Mexiko occupy the third with one point and New Zealand on 4th with zero point.

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