Powell's side were favourites to defeat the South Americans, who were beaten 11-0 by Germany in their opening game, and claim the victory which would take them through to the last eight.

But she said: "It's very easy when you come into a game like this, when you're expected to win, to think further into the tournament.

"So the clear message to the players was to keep their concentration and stay focused, and credit to them - it was a job well done.

"It's pleasing that we've created so many chances and to score six goals tonight was excellent.

"We won't know until tomorrow night who we have to play in the quarter-final, but whoever it is we'll be prepared."

Arsenal striker Kelly Smith scored twice as England claimed a comfortable win against an Argentina side who played most of the second half with 10 players after having central defender Catalina Perez sent off.

Smith said "We're two games away from the World Cup final - sounds good, doesn't it!"

Smith's brace took her tournament goal tally to four, level in the Golden Boot stakes with Germany'sBirgit Prinz and Marta of Brazil.

The team were congratulated by Richard Caborn, the Prime Minister's World Cup bid ambassador.

"It was a great feat for the England women's team to qualify for the World Cup and to get to the knock-out stages is even better," said Caborn.

"I wholeheartedly congratulate them on their achievements so far, wish them well for the rest of the competition and hope to see them in the final."