Japan are ranked third and beat Britain 40-34 in the quarter-finals of the Worlds, but that defeat was avenged on Friday. GB held on for a narrow win, with quarterback Jessica Allen making four touchdown passes.

The European champions led 20-12 at half-time after Grace Conway scored twice, either side of a Hannah Elliott touchdown.

Marta Mathews scored to keep GB clear in the second half and although Japan also finished with four touchdowns, they failed to add the extra point on each occasion.

GB twice went in front in their final group game, with Allen making touchdown passes to Elliott and Emily Kemp, but Mexico led 14-13 at half-time and finished with five touchdowns – all from Diana Flores passes.

The winner of GB’s quarter-final with Austria will face the USA or Italy in the semi-finals.

The knockout and ranking games are played on Saturday and Sunday.