Last updated on .From the section Women's Football

Holders Japan reached the semi-finals of the Women's World Cup with a narrow victory over Australia in Canada.

Mana Iwabuchi was the heroine for Japan, stroking in from close range with three minutes remaining after Azusa Iwashimizu's shot was blocked.

Forward Shinobu Ohno could have broken the deadlock early in the first half, but lobbed an effort over the bar.

Samantha Kerr's tame shot was the closest Australia came against Japan, who play England next.

Despite shocking Brazil in the previous round, Australia were underdogs going into the match, and played much of the game on the back foot on a scorching day in Edmonton.

Alanna Kennedy struck a free-kick wide from 30 yards in the first half, with their best chance falling to midfielder Kerr, who could only roll an effort into the goalkeeper's hands after going in on goal.

But Japan showed how clinical they can be by winning their fifth straight game in the competition by a one-goal margin.

They had more of the possession and made it count late on as Iwabuchi popped up to score the winner after Australia failed to clear a corner.

Japan are the only team to have won all five games at the World Cup