Canada icon Christine Sinclair named to the bench in a Women's World Cup match for the first time ever

• Sinclair benched for crucial Ireland clash
• Her first time as a sub in the Women's World Cup
• Canada icon made tournament debut in 2003

WHAT HAPPENED? Sinclair, the all-time top goal-scorer in international football and her country's captain, was among the substitutes when the teamsheet came out for Canada's crucial clash with Ireland. The 40-year-old has now been to six World Cup tournaments, her first coming in 2003, and had been included in the starting XI in all 22 of her previous appearances in the competition.

THE BIGGER PICTURE: Sinclair missed a penalty in Canada's first game of this World Cup as the Olympic gold medalists were held to a goalless draw by Nigeria. A result against Ireland was imperative, then, and they got it, coming from a goal down to win 2-1. Sinclair came off the bench at half time to help complete the turnaround, one which eliminated Ireland from the tournament.

DID YOU KNOW? If Sinclair scores during Canada's current campaign, she will become the first man or woman to score in six different World Cup tournaments.

IN THREE PHOTOS:

WHAT NEXT? Canada take on Australia in their final group game on Monday, with their hopes of still finishing top of the table well alive after Wednesday's win.