MONTPELLIER, France — Italy made its case to be considered a contender in the Women’s World Cup after a convincing 2-0 win over China on Tuesday night.

Coach Milena Bertolini believes Italy is set to play in its first quarterfinal since 1991 because her players are striving for a goal that goes beyond the final result.

“They have a mission. Their mission is to try and have the Italian public to discover and appreciate the women’s game,” Bertolini said. “This aspect helps you because it allows you to find that extra energy and motivation. I really believe this side has allowed the women’s game to break new ground back home.”

China had only allowed one goal in its three group stage games but the talented Italian attack broke down the vaunted defense.

Valentina Giacinti scored in the 15th minute. Aurora Galli’s long strike put the result beyond doubt four minutes after halftime at the stiflingly hot Stade de la Mosson.

Italy will play the Netherlands on Saturday in Valenciennes after the Dutch beat Japan 2-1 on Tuesday night. Germany and Sweden will meet in the other quarterfinal on Italy’s side of the bracket.

Netherlands 2, Japan 1: Lieke Martens scored her second goal on a late penalty kick to send the Netherlands into the quarterfinals for the first time. The new handball rule led to referee Melissa Borjas awarding the penalty because Saki Kumagai’s hand blocked Vivianne Miedema’s shot, even though there was no clear intention.

With the last Asian team eliminated, the Women’s World Cup will have a record seven European teams in the quarterfinals along with the U.S.