The Nation Has Hope

ENGLAND Women qualified for the quarter-finals of the World Cup after beating Japan 2-0 on Tuesday.

A sensational chip from Ellen White and a neat finish from substitute Rachel Yankey were enough to see England top the group ahead of Japan, who are ranked fourth in the world.

Hope Powell's team now face France for a place in the semi-finals on Saturday in Leverkusen, and prove to the nation that not all World Cups can end in premature disappointment.

Following the men's humiliation at the hands of Germany last summer in Bloemfontein, the nation have come to expect nothing from those who pull on the coveted Three Lions jersey.

But now, after a draw against Mexico, victory from a goal down against New Zealand and Tuesday's win over Japan, there is light at the end of the tunnel for a country that is starving for success.

Women's football has been said to be lightyears behind the men's game, but the fact that more people care about the current World Cup going on in Germany than the Euro 2012 qualifiers explains the situation clearly.

Fabio Capello's flops fail to put on a display to get the crowd going on a regular basis, whereas Powell's team are some of the most consistent performers at every tournament. Could it be argued that the women's game is now more entertaining that the men's game? Or is it the same debate of lack of passion in the men's game?

Watching the goal celebrations every time the ladies scored, I got a real sense of togetherness. They are a close-knit unit - a family, even - rather than a team, whereas Capello's lads play as strangers.

It would be great to see the women bring the World Cup hope. Maybe it will not be as satisfying for a nation as a men's World Cup triumph, but you will not be able to take anything away from Powell's girls should they be victorious in Germany.