July 9, 2011 -- Updated 1950 GMT (0350 HKT)
France's players celebrate as they win the penalty shootout against England.
(CNN) -- France won a dramatic penalty shootout against England Saturday to reach the semifinals of the Women's World Cup for the first time.
The talented French team will play either Brazil or the United States for a place in the final on July 17.
The match in Leverkusen ended 1-1 after extra-time but the French were deserved winners after dominating the latter stages of the match with superior technique and passing ability.
Jill Scott put England ahead just before the hour mark and they looked headed for the last four until the excellent Elise Bussaglia scored the equalizer for France two minutes from the end of regulation play.
England had the early advantage in the penalties decider as Karen Bardsley saved the first French effort from Camille Abily.
But Claire Rafferty's weak effort saw the French restore parity and when Faye White blasted her effort onto the crossbar it was the end of England's campaign, losing the shootout 4-3.
"To get to penalties we did well. It was just unfortunate we missed two," England coach Hope Powell told BBC Sport.
"It was just tired legs. At the end we were dead on our feet. Unfortunately when it came down to penalties you have to applaud France."
Her side were boosted when Everton midfielder Scott blasted her second goal of the tournament, but her Paris St.Germain counterpart Bussaglia leveled as her shot curled in off the post.
England, sporadically dangerous on the break, had the best chance in extra time, but Ellen White shot into the side netting from a a good position.
Hosts Germany were playing Japan before a packed crowd in Wolfsburg in the later quarterfinal Saturday.
Credit: CNN (www.cnn.com)
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