England have made it to the FIFA Women’s World Cup final after defeating tournament hosts Australia 3-1 in Sydney.
The Lionesses, who emerged victorious in the Euro 2022 final, previously lost semi-finals at the 2015 and 2019 Women’s World Cups.
Australia is into the final four for the first time, and aiming to be just the second host to win the title on home soil.
It was a lively start to the game, with Australia’s Sam Kerr having an early shot on goal within the first 10 minutes, saved by Mary Earps, before an offside call from the referee.
England’s Alex Greenwood picked up a yellow card, also before the 10 minute mark, after bringing Kerr to the ground during a challenge for the ball.
The first-half has seen plenty of challenges and near-misses in what promised to be a dramatic game at Sydney’s Stadium Australia in front of a sold-out crowd.
Australia had several rushes at goal, but England were first to break the tie at the 36th minute with a goal by Ella Toone from inside the box.
In the second-half England did their best to dominate possession and maintain their lead over the Matildas.
Australia fought back in the 62nd minute however, with Kerr scoring a powerful shot in front of a roaring home crowd.
England regained its lead at the 71st minute with England’s Lauren Hemp taking advantage of some poor defending from Ellie Carpenter, bringing the score to 2-1.
Arsenal forward Alessia Russo sealed Australia’s fate at the 86th minute with a shot from the right of the goal, giving England a 3-1 lead right before full-time.
