Stadium Australia in Sydney witnessed scintillating moments as Ella Toone and Sam Kerr delivered remarkable goals, illuminating the match. However, it was Sarina Wiegman's determined Lionesses who claimed victory. Lauren Hemp and Alessia Russo displayed their prowess in the second half, sending the ball rippling into the net. This defeat left Australia in dismay, while the reigning European champions now gear up for a captivating final showdown against Spain.
The initial stages of the semi-final exhibited an engaging exchange, with both goalkeepers making key interventions. Mary Earps thwarted an offside Sam Kerr's attempt in the eighth minute, and Mackenzie Arnold denied Georgia Stanway's close-range effort after a precise ball from Alex Greenwood. England persistently pressed against the co-hosts, and their persistence bore fruit in the 36th minute. Euro 2022 hero Ella Toone unleashed a ferocious shot, a testament to her exceptional ability.
Just moments after Toone's spectacular strike, the Matildas aimed for a goal opportunity. Yet, Katrina Gorry's long-range effort was comfortably caught by Earps, who had a steady first half.
In contrast, Arnold was put to the test again 12 minutes into the second half, skillfully preventing a Hemp half-volley from finding the target. Millie Bright rose above the defense during the ensuing corner but narrowly missed the mark.
Bright's defensive role continued as she faced off against her Chelsea teammate, Sam Kerr. The Australian forward seized the opportunity to equalize in the 63rd minute, delivering a breathtaking shot from 25 yards that found the top corner after a slight deflection off Bright's knee.
Kerr's extraordinary strike spurred England to action, and they swiftly reestablished their lead just eight minutes later. After Russo's close miss, a long pass over the top from Bright to Hemp led to a forceful encounter with Ellie Carpenter, resulting in a low shot across the goal that nestled into the side of the net.
As Australia endeavored to level the score, Kerr's precision waned, missing two close-range attempts. Her missed chances would ultimately prove costly, as her counterpart Alessia Russo sealed England's place in the final. Hemp transitioned from scorer to provider in the 87th minute, deftly maneuvering past Australia's defense and setting up Russo on the right side of the area. The 24-year-old executed a skillful finish, igniting jubilant celebrations.
Before England vies for championship glory against Jorge Vilda's Spain on Sunday, Australia, led by a disheartened Tony Gustavsson, will contend for third place against Sweden on Saturday.
