England's Lionesses have been knocked out of this year's Women's World Cup, at the semi-final stage with an agonising loss at the hands of holders Japan.
Steph Houghton, the team captain, has publicly praised the valiant side - who exceeded all expectations set for them, especially after an opening fixture defeat at the hands of France by a slender one-goal margin.
A significant, valiant team effort
City Ladies' centre-back Houghton, who is also her club captain, admitted although the side were understandably distraught by the way in which they were knocked out of the tournament, she has nothing but pride for the way the girls and staff have silenced critics in the best possible fashion - becoming the first side - male or female - to reach a World Cup semi-final since 1990.
An unfortunate own goal, scored by Laura Bassett, gifted the holders a narrow victory and as a result, they progress into Sunday's heavily-anticipated final with the USA, who shocked a few with a two-nil win over strong favourites Germany in their respective semi-final fixture.
So close, yet so far
England, who are set to face the Germans tomorrow in a third versus fourth play-off game, have the chance to exit the competition with grace and another win to their name - in what would be their fifth of the tournament. Houghton, who was amongst the players who was upset after the result was confirmed, said the following.
"There are no words to describe it really. The only thing I've got to say is I'm so proud of all the girls, all the staff, we've been on an amazing journey. Football can be cruel at times, but we'll hold our heads high and try to pick ourselves up to go and play against Germany on Saturday. We want to try and finish third if we can."
One early piece of team news to bring to you: Bassett is set to start for the Lionesses at centre-back, despite her unfortunate mistake costing the girls their possible route to Sunday's final with glory within their sights.