England Women World Cup final : the Australian hosts to secure a spot in the inaugural Women's World Cup final

England Women World Cup final : England shock the Australian hosts to secure a spot in the inaugural Women’s World Cup final

England Women World Cup final : The Lionesses bring an end to the Matildas’ impressive journey, securing their maiden Women’s World Cup final berth and setting the stage for a showdown against Spain England Women World Cup final 2023

England Women World Cup final 2023

England has achieved a historic milestone by advancing to their first-ever Women’s World Cup final, triumphing over Australia with a 3-1 scoreline. This victory comes despite a remarkable goal from Matildas’ forward Sam Kerr. The co-hosts’ remarkable Cinderella story met its conclusion.

The offensive prowess of England was evident when attacking midfielder Ella Toone granted them a lead during the first half of Wednesday’s match. However, Matildas’ captain Sam Kerr, making her first start in the tournament, electrified the atmosphere at Stadium Australia by unleashing a spectacular shot that equalized the score after the halftime break.

Nevertheless, England didn’t let the momentum slip away. Lauren Hemp promptly reclaimed the lead for England, while Alessia Russo sealed their triumph shortly before the final whistle, effectively securing their place in the final.

This momentous achievement holds particular significance for England, who had previously faltered at the semifinal hurdle in the past two editions of the World Cup. Their eyes are now set on Sunday’s clash against Spain, as they aim to add a global title to their European Championship conquest of the previous year.

The strategy crafted by Sarina Wiegman’s team was evident in their physical approach to the game against Australia, amassing nine fouls during the first half to stifle their opponents’ offensive maneuvers.

England made their mark in the 36th minute, as Alessia Russo maneuvered skillfully along the byline, delivering a precise ball back into the box that Ella Toone emphatically struck into the top right corner, securing her first goal of the tournament.

The second half saw Australia emerge with renewed vigor, pressing England higher up the field and seeking a historic moment reminiscent of Cathy Freeman’s iconic 400 meters victory at the same venue during the 2000 Olympics. Their moment arrived in the 63rd minute, as Sam Kerr seized possession from her own half, embarked on a goal-bound sprint, and unleashed an unstoppable rocket from 25 yards away, which nestled into the top left corner beyond the outstretched Mary Earps.

The stadium erupted in jubilation as Australia’s fans finally witnessed their star player scoring in the tournament, rekindling hopes of a title victory for Tony Gustavsson’s squad. However, the hosts’ aspirations were dashed once again, less than ten minutes later.

A long ball sent over the top by Millie Bright went unaddressed by Matildas’ defender Ellie Carpenter, allowing Lauren Hemp to calmly slot the ball into the bottom corner, reestablishing England’s advantage.

As the game entered its closing moments, Lauren Hemp showcased her brilliance once more. Executing a skillful turn near the halfway line, she surged towards the goal and set up Alessia Russo, who calmly dispatched a low shot into the far corner, solidifying England’s presence in the final.

ENGLAND REACH THE WOMEN’S WORLD CUP FINAL FOR THE FIRST TIME 🏴󠁧󠁢󠁥󠁮󠁧󠁿 pic.twitter.com/soZsFrgakG

— B/R Football (@brfootball) August 16, 2023

In a historic showdown on Sunday at Stadium Australia, both England and Spain will vie for their first Women’s World Cup title. Meanwhile, Australia will contend with Sweden for the third-place spot on Saturday in Brisbane.