England’s Lionesses via to their first World Cup remaining after win over hosts Australia
England’s Lionesses have reached the ultimate of the Women’s World Cup after beating Australia 3-1 in an exhilarating semi-final.
The European champions took on the Matildas at Sydney’s sold-out Stadium Australia, the place nearly all of the 75,000 in attendance have been backing the match co-hosts.
England v Australia – live updates: Lionesses’ stunning win breaks Aussie hearts
The tense showdown introduced early probabilities at each ends, however England struck the primary blow with an impressive strike from Ella Toone silencing the group and giving the Lionesses a 1-0 lead at half-time.
Fan parks throughout London erupted as Toone’s strike hit the again of the web.
Toone’s objective was the primary Australia had conceded in 5 hours and 54 minutes – after dropping 3-2 to Nigeria within the group levels, the Matildas went on to maintain three clear sheets.
Australia wanted some magic to maintain their World Cup hopes alive – and located it in striker Sam Kerr, who picked up the ball on the half-way line and hit residence from 25 yards out to stage the match.
But England weren’t fazed and did what they needed to do to ebook themselves a spot within the international showpiece with a second objective – this time from Lauren Hemp, who fired the ball previous Australia’s keeper Mackenzie Arnold 20 minutes from time.
Alessia Russo wrapped up proceedings with a objective within the 86th minute.
“We all dreamed of being in the final,” stated England’s Lucy Bronze, after the ultimate whistle.
“It is the one thing I have ever wanted – to reach the final of the World Cup… I can’t believe it.”
The Lionesses will play Spain within the remaining on Sunday in Sydney, with kick-off at 11am.
Sweden will face Australia within the third-place play-off on Saturday in Brisbane at 9am.