Women's World Cup: VAR drama sinks Scotland, England top group | OneFootball

England sealed top spot in Group D on Wednesday evening while Scotland threw away a 3-0 lead to draw with Argentina.

Yet again, VAR played a starring role.

Scotland are now out of the World Cup, while Argentina could qualify as one of the best third-place teams.

England knew a draw would seal top of the group against Japan and Phil Neville used the game to offer some players a chance in the starting line-up.

One of those players, Georgia Stanway, repaid him with a beautifully weighted pass to send Ellen White through with 14 minutes on the clock.

The striker made no mistake.

White calmly netted again, her third of the tournament, in the closing stages as England eased to a win.

Scotland knew they had to win against a determined and defensively solid Argentina to stand a chance of qualifying and were on course to do just that.

Three goals up and all but through with over 70 minutes played, Shelley Kerr’s side threw the three points away.

Erin Cuthbert kicked things off with a superb run, forcing a save before Kim Little tucked in the rebound and gave Scotland the lead.

The lead was doubled shortly after the break as defender Jen Beattie headed home and Cuthbert added a third with 20 minutes to go.

Then, though, cracks started to appear.

Milagros Menéndez and Florence Bonsegundo made it 3-2 before late penalty drama. After a lengthy consultation with VAR, a penalty was awarded to the Argentines in the 88th minute.

Lee Alexander saved the spot kick but more drama ensued, as VAR judged to her to have come off her line. She was booked and the spot kick was retaken. This time, Bondegundo made no mistake.

Scotland are now out of the tournament.