England break Australian hearts to reach 2023 Women’s World Cup final
England broke Australian hearts in a 3-1 semi-final win over the 2023 Women’s World Cup co-hosts to reach the final.
Unbeaten throughout the tournament, England must have drawn inspiration from it’s last-16 penalty shoot-out win over the Super Falcons of Nigeria who had defeated the Aussies during the group stage
A tight opening half hour as the Stadium Australia in Sydney was lit when England broke the deadlock in the 36th minute through Ella Toone.
That lead stood until a sensational slo move from Australia skipper Sam Kerr to blast home the equalizer from outside the box for the hosts in the 63rd minute.
Not deterred by the goal and the increased cheers from the home crowd for their team, England pressed forward and reclaimed the lead on 71 minutes courtesy of Lauren Hemp before Alessia Ruso made the result safe minutes later for a 3-1 win for the Europeans Champions.
This means, an all European final as they take on Spain in the final on Sunday, August 20 at the same venue seeking to claim their first ever FIFA Women’s World Cup title.
Spain defeated Sweden 2-1 in Tuesday’s semi-finals, and like England will be making their first appearance in the World Cup final.
Chelsea FC attacking midfielder Lauren James will be available for the final after serving out her suspension for a red card in the round of 16 clash with Nigeria’s Super Falcons – by far the England’s toughest game at the tournament.
Heartbroken Australia will now face Sweden in the third place match.
