Women's World Cup: Germany v England in third-place play-off

England take on Germany in the Women’s World Cup third-place play-off on Saturday evening, as they look to bounce back from their agonising semi-final defeat to Japan.

Laura Bassett’s last-minute own goal consigned Mark Sampson’s side to a heartbreaking 2-1 loss to the reigning champions, who face the USA in Monday morning’s final.

England have enjoyed a thoroughly successful tournament, and Sampson has issued a challenge to his side to build on their campaign in Canada.

He told Sky Sports News HQ: “The challenge not just for this team but the England women’s football community is how to build on this.

“Let’s not forget women’s football around the globe is catching on, a lot of nations are investing a lot of money.

“We’re still playing catch up with them. We’ve got to raise the bar and give this national team a chance to come back as winners.

“We nearly got there this year. We’ve got to get more girls playing the game, have more centres so they can play and gain experience. It's a long way to go, but this has been a big step up in the gears.”

Lucy Bronze is the only injury worry for England, after the full-back had to be withdrawn during the defeat to Japan, with Alex Scott likely to deputise.

Toni Duggan impressed against Japan as she started in place of Karen Carney, so Sampson may choose to stick with the Manchester City striker against Germany.

Sampson has also confirmed that Bassett will start in central defence. 

Reigning European champions Germany were forced to settle for a place in the play-off as striker Celia Sasic missed a penalty, before Carli Lloyd and Kelley O’Hara sealed a 2-0 win for the USA.