Netherlands tops Group E with victory over Canada

The Netherlands defeated Canada 2-1 on Thursday to finish atop Group E at the 2019 Women's World Cup.

Sarina Wiegman's charges, who end the group stage with a perfect record, will now prepare to face Japan in the round of 16.

Meanwhile, Canada will play the runner-up from Group F - either the United States or Sweden - in the knockout round after finishing in second place.

Kenneth Heiner-Moller's side needed a win to secure top spot, but it was Anouk Dekker who opened the scoring for the Dutch in the 57th minute. Christine Sinclair's 182nd international goal briefly restored Canada's hopes of topping the group.

It wasn't meant to be for the Canadians, as Lineth Beerensteyn turned the ball in from close range to secure another three points for the Netherlands.

The Oranje will take on the 2011 Women's World Cup champion on June 25.

Elsewhere, Cameroon will also progress from Group E following its dramatic 2-1 victory over New Zealand, courtesy of Ajara Nchout's 95th-minute winner.