Brazil became the second team to qualify for the knockout round of the women's World Cup on Saturday and England picked up a big win, but France suffered a shock defeat that could make its life at the tournament tougher.

Brazil joined defending champion Japan in the next stage with six points after a grim 1-0 win over Spain in a Montreal Group E game, striker Andressa Alves tapping home in the 44th minute after a defensive error.

While Brazil rarely looked comfortable against a physical Spanish side and only managed two shots on target, coach Vadao brushed off questions about the lack of goals.