England produced a sensational, record-breaking performance to stun rivals Norway as they progressed to the knockout stages of the European Women’s Championship as group winners.

Brighton was treated to a memorable night as England broke their own tournament record to win 8-0 in what was perceived to be their biggest test of the group stages.

Norway, ranked 11th in the world, were outplayed, outclassed and completely stunned by an England team oozing confidence.

After an underwhelming opening victory over Austria, England started in cagey fashion but, after Georgia Stanway slotted in a 12th-minute penalty, there was only one winner.

Within half an hour, Lauren Hemp and Ellen White had extended England’s lead and excitement was rippling around the Amex Stadium.

What followed was a ruthless onslaught on Norway’s goal – Beth Mead netted a hat-trick, Alessia Russo came off the bench to score and White got a second on the night to move to within one goal of Wayne Rooney’s all-time England goalscoring record.

It was a statement performance to the rest of Europe as England fly into the knockout stages having comfortably confirmed their status as one of the tournament favourites.