England displayed its steadiness in the second half to score a 3-1 victory over host Australia in the semifinals of the 2023 FIFA Women’s World Cup on Wednesday night at the Stadium Australia in Sydney.
Ella Toone set the tone with her first-half conversion before Lauren Hemp and Alessia Russo added one each in the final half as England reached the championship round for the first time.
England were the aggressors in the opening half as they dominated possession until they drew first blood in the 36th minute courtesy of a conversion by Toone from inside the box.
Australia charged back early in the second half as star Sam Kerr connected from outside the box amidst the defense of two England players, much to the delight of the predominant Australian fans in the venue.
The celebration, however, was short-lived for the Australians as Hemp regained the advantage for England in the 71st minute before Russo sealed the win with another connection 15 minutes later.
England will face Spain in the championship game slated for Sunday evening, while Australia will try to salvage the bronze medal against Sweden on Saturday night.
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