England vs Nigeria predictions: Lionesses to book quarter-final spot

- England have never failed to reach the quarter-finals at a women's World Cup 
- Nigeria have only made it past the last-16 stage on one occasion 
- Recommended bet: Lauren James to score anytime

England continue their quest for women's World Cup glory on Monday when taking on Nigeria for a place in the quarter-finals of the competition.

The Lionesses produced their best performance of the tournament last time out, sticking six past China in a 6-1 victory, and their confidence is sky-high ahead of the meeting with Nigeria.

Team news

England could have midfielder Keira Walsh available to play after she returned to team training following a knee injury that had threatened to end her tournament early.

The Barcelona star was taken off in the victory over Denmark and subsequently missed the 6-1 thrashing of China, however, she has been making good progress and could play some part in the last-16 tie.

As for Nigeria, Deborah Abiodun is back after serving a two-match suspension for the red card in the opening game against Canada although she may have to settle for a place on the bench.

The stats

England won all three of their group matches to reach the last-16 stage, conceding just one goal and scoring eight, and they are aiming to reach the quarter-finals for the sixth time.

After being left out of the starting XI for the opening clash against Haiti, Lauren James has since scored three goals after being handed starts in the games with Denmark and China.

Nigeria are aiming to reach the quarter-finals for just the second time, having done so in 1999, and they are on a six-game unbeaten streak heading into the contest at Lang Park, Brisbane.

The Super Falcons failed to find the back of the net in two of their three group games, recording 0-0 draws against Canada and the Republic of Ireland, with their three goals all coming in the 3-2 victory over Australia.

Prediction

While Nigeria should be given a lot of credit for reaching the last-16 stage, this is where their tournament is likely to end as they come up against an England side that hit top gear last time out.

After narrow 1-0 wins over Haiti and Denmark, the Lionesses showcased their title credentials with a 6-1 mauling of China to progress into the knockout stages as group winners

Head coach Sarina Wiegman has certainly had the magic touch since coming in, having only lost one match in her tenure and also guiding the country to European Championship glory.

Priced at 1/4 to win Monday's tie with LiveScore Bet, there is little value in going down this route and, therefore, it may prove more prudent in backing James to continue her fine scoring form.

The 21-year-old has grabbed her starting opportunities with both hands, netting a stunner in the victory over Denmark before following that up with a brace in the China success.

Back Lauren James to score anytime at 15/8 with LiveScore Bet.