England thrashed host Australia 1-3: Lionesses Powers into first Women's World Cup final 2023
England reached the Women's World Cup final for the first time as they spoiled co-hosts Australia's party on a historic evening in Sydney.
Silencing a sell-out crowd at Stadium Australia with their 3-1 victory, the Lionesses became the first England football team since 1966 to reach a senior final on the world stage.
It caps a sensational two years under manager Sarina Wiegman as England, crowned European champions for the first time last year on home soil, showed their superiority and know-how to see off an Australia side spurred on by a nation who have been inspired by the Matildas' success.
Ella Toone gave England the lead in the first half with a superb first-time strike which sailed into the top corner.
England, who fell at the semifinal stage in the previous two World Cups, face Spain on Sunday, looking to add a world title to last year’s European Championship triumph.
The Lionesses controlled proceedings until the second half when Australia threw everything at them and star striker Sam Kerr - starting her first match of the tournament - struck a 25-yard stunner over goalkeeper Mary Earps' head to make it 1-1.
But England, as they so often do, found a way back into the game when Lauren Hemp pounced on a defensive error to restore their lead, before Alessia Russo made sure of victory late on to set up a final with Spain on Sunday.
Australia will play Sweden for third place on Saturday in Brisbane.
A long ball over the top from Millie Bright was not dealt with by Matildas defender Ellie Carpenter, allowing Hemp an easy finish into the bottom corner to restore England’s lead.
The 23-year-old was involved again as the game entered the final minutes, turning brilliantly on the halfway line before running towards the goal and releasing Russo, who fired a low shot into the far corner to seal England’s place in the final.
Both England and Spain will be playing their first Women’s World Cup final when they meet at Stadium Australia on Sunday.
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