England swept aside the United States 47-26 at Billings Park in Dublin, while New Zealand thrashed Canada 48-5 at the same venue.

The results saw England and New Zealand finish at the summit of Pool B and Pool A respectively, guaranteeing them a spot in the last four.

They were joined in progressing as group winners by France, who beat Ireland 21-5 at the UCD Bowl to finish top of Pool C.

All three teams finished the group stage unbeaten and their 100 per cent records never looked in doubt.

New Zealand were in fine form against Canada, running in eight tries during a comprehensive victory.

Aldora Itunu was the star of the show for the Black Ferns as she went over three times, while captain Fiao'o Faamausili marked becoming the first woman to play 50 matches for her country by scoring a try early in the second half.

New Zealand's win earned them a semi-final berth for the seventh time at a Women's World Cup.

England also put in a commanding display as they scored seven tries in a comfortable win over the US.

Emily Scarratt put the hosts in front early on before a penalty try, a brace from Marlie Packer and a further score from Katy Mclean gave them a healthy 33-7 lead at half-time.

Amy Wilson-Hardy and Amy Cockayne got their names on the scoresheet in the second half.

Kris Thomas, Kate Zackary, Cheta Emba and Naya Tapper scored the American tries but their efforts were to be in vain as they were outclassed by a superior English side.

Thomas' effort proved important however, as it handed the US a crucial losing bonus point.

It helped the US progress as the best runner-up from the three pools.

In the semi-finals, New Zealand will play the US and England will take on France.

Both matches are scheduled to be held at the Kingspan Stadium in Belfast on Tuesday (August 22).