Chalupny (second left) scored the goal to put USA through

England will face the United States in the quarter-finals of the Women's World Cup on Saturday.

The US beat Nigeria 1-0, courtesy of a first-minute goal from Lori Chalupny, to top Group B and set up the showdown.

Chalupny's shot was deflected in off Ulumma Jerome after she latched on to a Abby Wambach flick-on from a long throw in the first minute.

Wambach also had a header tipped over the bar and, despite pressure from Nigeria, an unconvincing US held on.

606: DEBATE The England women's team now face the biggest match in their history Claire S

The US team were regarded as one of the favourites to win the tournament before it started but they were content to sit on their one-goal advantage to confirm their progress.

They were more keen to snuff out any threat from Nigeria rather than extend their lead, even though an equaliser from their rivals could have seen them finish second in the group.