Japan eased into the next round of the 24-team tournament with a game to spare after wins over Switzerland and Cameroon in Group C with minnows Ecuador next on their radar in Winnipeg.

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The United States lead Group D with four points after following their opening 3-1 win over Australia with their first ever goalless draw in the tournament against Sweden in front of a sellout crowd of 32,716 at Winnipeg Stadium.

The USA now play for top spot in the group in Vancouver in their final group game against African champions Nigeria – who will be without Ugo Njoku after the defender was suspended for three games for an elbow to Australia forward Samantha Kerr’s face in Friday’s match.

“We’re still in the driver’s seat. We still have an opportunity to finish top if we get things done against Nigeria,” said USA coach Jill Ellis, whose side would meet 2007 runners- up Brazil by finishing second

“We’re not taking anything for granted, It’s not labelled the ‘Group of Death’ for nothing,” she added.

Japan coach Norio Sasaki already has his eyes focused on the knockout rounds.

“Psychologically it helps that we will be advancing to he next stage,” said Sasaki.

“We’re preparing for the next round as we approach the next match (against Ecuador).”

Switzerland and Cameroon, both on three points, go head-to-head for the second automatic qualifying spot from Group C in Edmonton, which would assure them of playing the next match there.

Alen Stajcic’s Australia can also finish top as the Matildas seek revenge against Sweden who knocked them out in the last 16 four years ago.