Kelly's keen to spank Yanks

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Today the England women can go one better and reach the semi-finals of their World Cup by beating favourites the United States.

Kelly Smith: Challenge

Kelly Smith, whose second pair of goals of the tournament in the 6-1 mauling of Argentina confirmed England's quarter-final berth, cannot wait.

"America will be huge favourites but we'll thrive on that," said Smith, the Arsenal Ladies striker who used to play for Philadelphia Chargers.

"I've played a lot against the Americans so I'm familiar with them. It's going to be a real challenge and a fingerlicking tie."

Coach Hope Powell believes her team have what it takes to upset the odds and give the growing army of fans back home the result they want. She said: "It's encouraging, lovely that people back home are taking such an interest in us. We came here wanting to do well and to play a bit and hopefully we have done this. I hope we can please them further by beating the U.S."

But the Americans have qualified for every World Cup since its inception in 1991 and won it twice.

They were knocked out in the semi-finals by eventual winners Germany last time but victory against Nigeria on Monday took their unbeaten run to an incredible 50 matches.

Smith has provided the defining image of China 2007 so far, kissing a boot in celebration of her two goals against Japan that earned England a point in their opening game.

She will be up against former team-mate Hope Solo, the U.S. goalkeeper, who said: "I know all her tricks. She's one of my favourite players to watch, one of the most crafty players, and I have the utmost respect for her."

England are taking part in only their second World Cup but U.S. coach Greg Ryan is not surprised they made it through, saying: "We know that England are a strong team. They've come a long way. I expected them to make it in their group and I think their performance against Germany showed how strong they are."

Midfielder Katie Chapman, who returns from a one-match ban for England, said: "We are the fittest we have ever been, the most physical we have ever been and we're mentally strong."

TV: Eurosport, KO 1pm.