Australia vs England LIVE: Women’s World Cup result and reaction as brilliant Lionesses reach first final

England brilliantly reached the Women’s World Cup final for the first time with a stunning 3-1 win over Australia in Sydney, breaking the hearts of the host nation and setting up an all-European title decider against Spain.

Ella Toone drove England’s opener into the corner of the net in the 36th minute to silence the crowd of 75,784 at Stadium Australia but home captain Sam Kerr brought them back into it with a stunning run and strike from 25 metres out in the 64th minute.

The Matildas defence failed to deal with a long ball over the top seven minutes later, however, and Lauren Hemp nipped in to drill it into the net.

Kerr came close to scoring an equaliser but came up short and Alessia Russo powered home England’s third four minutes from time to send the European champions, semi-final losers at the last two World Cups, into Sunday’s final.

Relive the action from England vs Australia in the semi-finals and get all the latest Women’s World Cup odds here:

Women’s World Cup LIVE: Latest England vs Australia updates

• England beat hosts Australia 3-1 in Women’s World Cup semi-final as Toone, Hemp and Russo score

• Lionesses spoil the Matildas’ party to reach their first ever Women’s World Cup final

• England will face Spain on Sunday with the World Cup on the line

• REPORT: Sensational England capitalise on Sam Kerr’s missed moment to make World Cup history

• ANALYSIS: How England deployed dark arts and cool heads to silence Australian noise

• REACTION: ‘We all dreamed of being in the final’ - Lionesses discuss beating Australia

• Will Lauren James play in the Women’s World Cup final?

Women’s World Cup: Sensational England capitalise on Sam Kerr’s missed moment to make World Cup history

Wednesday 16 August 2023 22:30 , Luke Baker

England reach the game’s grandest stage, having fittingly reached their greatest level so far.

Such was the professionally commanding nature of this 3-1 semi-final win over hosts Australia that they somehow made this moment of glorious football history feel like it was always coming. They have just got better and better as this World Cup has gone on, as symbolised by all of Ella Toone, Lauren Hemp and Alessia Russo coming to form with goals, and as crowned now with a place in the final itself.

It was celebrated, of course, with a delirious rendition of Sweet Caroline in the centre circle.

The full report by Miguel Delaney in Sydney:

Sensational England capitalise on Sam Kerr’s missed moment to make World Cup history

Women’s World Cup: How England deployed dark arts and cool heads to silence Australian noise

Wednesday 16 August 2023 22:00 , Luke Baker

England walked out and for a moment it might have felt like they had been there before. A crowd of over 75,000, millions elsewhere turning in. An expectant nation inspired by the power and momentum of a team who represent something greater than themselves.

But this wasn’t the Euros final. This wasn’t Wembley. This time England were the enemy, deep in the land of Matildas fever. This time they faced the crowd, the noise, the jeers and boos, the helicopters hovering over their training session and splashing photos of their plans across the morning newspapers. They faced Australia’s biggest night in a generation. They faced the spirit of Cathy Freeman, and a moment that would unify the country. They faced Sam Kerr, and they heard the eruption that greeted the star of the World Cup finally having her moment.

Full story by Jamie Braidwood in Sydney.

How England deployed dark arts and cool heads to silence Australian noise

Big England wins in Australia - Commonwealth Games netball gold

Wednesday 16 August 2023 21:35 , Luke Baker

Commonwealth Games netball gold

England’s netballers were crowned 2018 Commonwealth Games champions with a dramatic late 52-51 win over hosts Australia on the Gold Coast.

Helen Housby netted in the final second for Tracey Neville’s side to win the most astonishing of contests.

The Roses took the game to the then three-times Commonwealth champions, with the match level 25-all at half-time.

Australia led by four goals early in the fourth quarter, but after Neville switched her side around, England rallied.

Housby claimed a vital rebound late on before dropping the shot at the second attempt – after a foul – to spark scenes of ecstasy from the England camp.

Big England wins in Australia - Ashes triumph Down Under

Wednesday 16 August 2023 21:10 , Luke Baker

Ashes triumph Down Under

England’s men’s cricket team headed out for the 2010-11 Ashes series looking to deliver a first Ashes victory on Australian soil for 24 years.

Andrew Strauss’ side scored 517 for one declared in the second innings of the drawn opening Test at the Gabba in Brisbane – with future captain Alastair Cook making an unbeaten 235.

The foundations were set as a massive first innings of 620 for five, Kevin Pietersen scoring 227, helped secure a comfortable victory in Adelaide.

Although Australia recovered to win the third Test by 267 runs in Perth, England again came out on top in the Boxing Day Test in Melbourne by an innings and 157 runs to retain the urn – before amassing 644 in their first innings in Sydney to close out a memorable 3-1 series victory.

Big England wins in Australia - Wilkinson’s golden boot

Wednesday 16 August 2023 20:45 , Luke Baker

The Lionesses were following a storied tradition by beating Australia Down Under in this World Cup. Plenty of other English sporting teams have triumphed against the old enemy in their own backyard.

Wilkinson’s golden boot

Jonny Wilkinson’s last-gasp drop-goal secured England’s men a dramatic triumph in the 2003 Rugby World Cup final in Sydney.

Wilkinson’s kick sealed a 20-17 extra-time victory over hosts Australia in front of a then-record record crowd of almost 83,000 – with millions more watching on television around the globe.

After the scores were locked at 14-14 at full-time following a second-half fightback from the Wallabies, Wilkinson’s fourth penalty edged Martin Johnson’s men back in front, only for Elton Flatley to level things up again.

Then, with just 28 seconds remaining, Matt Dawson’s run brought England into drop-goal range, with the scrum-half passing back to Wilkinson who slotted over the posts from 30 metres to secure the most dramatic of finishes.

I thought ‘real’ men didn’t watch women’s football – how wrong I was

Wednesday 16 August 2023 20:20 , Luke Baker

After some gentle feminine pressure, I did the right thing and put my full support behind our brave Lionesses and watched the historic World Cup clash against hosts Australia.

I’m glad I did, and mended my old attitudes. I shouldn’t have needed to be told. It was a superb 90 minutes, and, for the chauvinists amongst us, further proof (were it needed), that the women’s game – and indeed this particular team – is more than a match for the men’s.

Unlike the boys, they did not disappoint and were full of skill, audacity and – most importantly – heart.

It was best displayed after Australia’s Sam Kerr equalised with a fine strike from 30 yards out. As the cliche has it, goals change games and for a while the home side were suitably emboldened – but the Lionesses recovered their composure and retained their lead after about 10 minutes. The Matildas fouled up, but there was nothing inevitable about Lauren Hemp’s finish. It was a masterclass in recovery.

Sean O’Grady explains his change of heart regarding women’s football:

I thought ‘real’ men didn’t watch women’s football – how wrong I was | Sean O’Grady

Prince William will not travel to Australia for Lionesses’ World Cup final

Wednesday 16 August 2023 19:55 , Luke Baker

The Prince of Wales will not travel to Australia to watch the Lionesses’ compete in their historic World Cup final.

William celebrated England’s “phenomenal performance” as he tweeted a personal message of congratulations after the 3-1 semi-final victory over Australia.

It is the first time the Lionesses have reached the final of a World Cup, and the first time an England football team has competed in a World Cup final since the men’s side beat West Germany in 1966.

Heir to the throne William, who is president of the Football Association (FA), will not be in Australia to witness the clash against Spain on Sunday, Kensington Palace confirmed.

Instead, he will watch the match on television as he cheers the Lionesses on.

William will not travel to Australia for Lionesses’ World Cup final

Guards play ‘Sweet Caroline’ outside Buckingham Palace as Lionesses reach World Cup final

Wednesday 16 August 2023 19:30 , Luke Baker

Guards played a rendition of “Sweet Caroline” outside Buckingham Palace as the Lionesses beat Australia to reach the Women’s World Cup final.

The band of the Welsh Guards played the song - which has become an unofficial anthem for England’s national football teams - at the changing of the guard ceremony outside the palace.

‘Massive congratulations‘: Harry Kane and the Prince of Wales laud Lionesses after win over Australia

Wednesday 16 August 2023 19:05 , Luke Baker

Harry Kane and the Prince of Wales led the congratulations after England swept aside co-hosts Australia 3-1 to reach their first World Cup final.

The Lionesses roared past the Matildas in front of a 75,784-strong crowd thanks to second-half strikes from Lauren Hemp and Alessia Russo.

Ella Toone had fired England into the lead in the first half, but Sam Kerr produced a thunderous equaliser before Hemp and Russo helped Sarina Wiegman’s side end their run of World Cup last-four exits.

Kane, England’s men’s record goal-scorer, was able to provide instant reaction during an interview with Sky Sports, saying: “Massive congratulations to the Lionesses. It sounds like a heck of a game and massive congratulations. We’re all behind them and hopefully they can do it in the final.”

The prince tweeted his best wishes to the Lionesses for the final and offered his commiserations to Australia.

“What a phenomenal performance from the Lionesses – on to the final,” he said. “Commiserations to The Matildas, you’ve played brilliantly and been fantastic co-hosts of this World Cup.”

Where to buy the Women’s World Cup England 2023 kit as the lionesses roar into the final

Wednesday 16 August 2023 18:40 , Luke Baker

The England team have roared into the final of the Women’s World Cup for the first time ever as the Lionesses beat host nation and old enemy Australia 3-1 in the semi-finals.

Goals from Ella Toone, Lauren Hemp and Alessia Russo saw the European champions brush off the Matildas in Sydney, securing their place against Spain in the final on Sunday.

If you’re keen to show your support and roar on the Lionesses in the Women’s World Cup final, whether that be from your local pub or the comfort of your own sofa, it’s only right you do so while wearing a history-making England football shirt.

The England team made it to the semi-finals in 2015 and 2019, but this is the first time the Lionesses have made it to the World Cup final, despite eight more nations competing compared to the 2019 World Cup.

The Lionesses have been competing in the Women’s World Cup wearing a brand new kit from Nike and we’ve found where to shop the official shirts. With options for women, men and kids, the whole family can get behind the team and show their support.

Support the Lionesses with this official England kit

Ella Toone celebration explained after goal against Australia in Women’s World Cup semi-final

Wednesday 16 August 2023 18:15 , Luke Baker

Ella Toone struck a magnificent opener for England against Australia in the Women’s World Cup semi-final.

The Manchester United star smashed the ball high into the top corner before wheeling away in delight with her teammates.

The 23-year-old, who has grabbed her opportunity in place of the suspended Lauren James, explained her celebration ahead of time.

Ella Toone celebration explained after World Cup semi-final goal

This World Cup means so much more for women than who wins and who loses

Wednesday 16 August 2023 17:50 , Luke Baker

Record attendances, standout goalkeeping performances, and penalty-taking fire-power to eclipse any strike by a man in last season’s Premier League.

Not bad for a bunch of girls, is it?

The 2023 Women’s World Cup has certainly been pulling in the fans. One of the home teams, Australia, has twice played in front of crowds exceeding 75,000 in Sydney, and that was only limited by the capacity of the stadium.

Well over 500,000 have attended fan zones in host cities to watch the games on big screens, and, after only two rounds of the tournament, attendance numbers had already exceeded the total attendance of the 2015 World Cup in Canada.

The football world governing body, FIFA, has been trying to grow women’s football at pace, and it seems to be working.

Gemma Abbott on the importance of this World Cup:

This World Cup means so much more than who wins and who loses

Women’s World Cup: Australia reflect on semi-final loss

Wednesday 16 August 2023 17:25 , Luke Baker

Australia coach Tony Gustavsson was left to wonder what might have been after the Matildas were dumped out of the Women’s World Cup semi-finals by England.

Gustavsson had highlighted the gulf in quality between the two squads before the match, with some of the Matildas in his starting line-up playing for mid-table teams in Sweden as well as in a relatively weak Australian domestic league. But after the game he said the tournament co-hosts had created the same amount of chances as England.

“It’s one of those nights where they were more clinical than us in the finishing,” he told TV network Seven. “I think our defending was very solid in the first half. We told (the players) at halftime to be more confident on the ball and play the way we can play.

“When we started to do that we dominated the game but unfortunately it didn’t pay off with enough goals tonight.”

Matildas talisman Sam Kerr made her first start of the World Cup after battling injury and although her goal ultimately wasn’t enough for the hosts, she praised a raucous home crowd.

“We can’t thank the fans enough, they’ve been amazing. We’ve felt the love all over the country,” Kerr told Seven.

“Just to see the support has really pushed us on. So hopefully this stays around because this has been amazing for us.

“It’s hard to think about (the third place playoff) now but Tony’s already said it’s a quick turnaround. We’ve got to pick ourselves up and hopefully not go home empty-handed.”

Reporting by Reuters

Women’s World Cup: Betting on the tournament surges

Wednesday 16 August 2023 17:00 , Luke Baker

British bookmakers have seen a surge in the number of bets placed on the Women’s World Cup compared with previous years, though the timing of the matches meant betting volumes were down on last year’s European Championship.

William Hill, now owned by bookmaker 888, said it has taken 900,000 bets on one of the biggest women’s sporting events in the world, which is being hosted by Australia and New Zealand.

“The reduction in quantity versus the Euros could be as a result of the morning kick-off times, but it still is significantly more than we would have taken a few years ago,” said William Hill spokesperson, Lee Phelps.

Entain, owner of Ladbrokes and Coral brands, said it saw “exponential growth” in betting on the sport and a record number of women globally placing bets.

The first three England games saw one-fifth of bets placed by women, it said.

“More of our customers are finding new ways to support their favourite teams and that’s with a bet,” said Entain’s Chief Commercial Officer Dominic Grounsell.

The size of the women’s sports betting market has grown rapidly, with football clocking an annual market growth rate of about 20% since 2020, according to a study conducted by the German Sport University Cologne published in July.

Last summer’s European Championship was the biggest women’s event for Flutter and Entain and women’s sports have shown to be a lucrative opportunity for bookmakers and the betting industry. Entain did not immediately disclose the number of bets placed on the World Cup. A record 1.5 million online bets were placed on last year’s Euros.

Reporting by Reuters

Ella Toone’s family celebrate as she scores in World Cup semi-final win against Australia

Wednesday 16 August 2023 16:40 , Luke Baker

This is the heartwarming moment family and friends of England player Ella Toone celebrate her goal against Australia in the Lionesses’ World Cup semi-final win.

The Manchester United midfielder opened the scoring for England in their 3-1 victory in Australia as the Lionesses secured their first-ever place in a World Cup final.

In a video, published by BBC Sport, Toone’s friends and family can be seen and heard chanting her name.

Ella Toone’s family celebrate as she scores in World Cup semi-final win

Women’s World Cup: Lionesses sing ‘Sweet Caroline’ as they reach final for first time

Wednesday 16 August 2023 16:20 , Luke Baker

It’s become a bit of a tradition now and the Lionesses were belting out Sweet Caroline after their victory over Australia. Will they be doing the same on Sunday as world champions?

A robot? Inside the ‘genius’ mind of Sarina Wiegman

Wednesday 16 August 2023 16:00 , Luke Baker

English football has long found one specific hurdle to be insurmountable. Whether it’s the men’s or women’s game, reaching a final has been a step too far for even the most talented of teams; so-called ‘golden generations’ tried their luck yet no matter how hard England tried or how much they reinvented their game, it couldn’t be done.

That was the case until Sarina Wiegman came along, that is. A manager who is regarded as “phenomenal”, a “genius”, and undoubtedly one of the all-time greats.

The Lionesses had a precise problem, so they looked to someone with the exact talents they needed and the tournament record to back it up. She won a European Championship on home soil and then guided the Netherlands to a World Cup final: that’s the perfect CV when you’re looking to recruit someone to replicate those exact jobs.

England’s moment of jubilation was yet another milestone to add to her career record. A semi-final of the tallest order lay in her wake – a 75,000-strong home crowd up against an injury-hit team who were yet to find their World Cup sparkle and now had to face the ruthlessness of Sam Kerr – but the challenge tumbled in front of her.

Adam Millington from Sydney on the Lionesses’coach extraordinaire:

A robot? Inside the ‘genius’ mind of Sarina Wiegman

‘It’s the one thing I’ve always wanted’: Emotional Lucy Bronze tears up after World Cup semi-final win

Wednesday 16 August 2023 15:40 , Luke Baker

Lucy Bronze was visibly emotional after the Lionesses’ emphatic World Cup semi-final win over Australia. Interviewed by the BBC on the pitch and asked how she felt, Bronze was struggling for words.

She said: “I don’t know. This is the one thing I have always wanted, to make the final of the World Cup. After getting two times of such disappointment, I can’t believe it.”

Asked what coach Sarina Wiegman said in the huddle after the win, Bronze said: “Just that we played the game how we wanted to. We were resilient and we were determined.”

‘All I’ve wanted’: Emotional Lucy Bronze tears up after World Cup semi-final win

Women’s World Cup: 'Am I in a fairytale?’

Wednesday 16 August 2023 15:20 , Luke Baker

Sarina Wiegman has become a maestro of tournament football, now leading teams into the final of three consecutive major events (Netherlands at World Cup 2019, Lionesses at Euro 2021 and World Cup 2023).

She admits it feels like a fairytale leading the Lionesses into the Sydney showpiece.

Women’s World Cup: Australia 1-3 England FT

Wednesday 16 August 2023 15:00 , Sonia Twigg

Australian fans sobbed after the Matildas were knocked out of the Women’s World Cup by England on Wednesday, 16 August.

Tears flowed after goals from Ella Toone, Lauren Hemp, and Alessia Russo put the Lionesses one step closer to lifting their second major trophy in just over a year.

Australian fans sob as Lionesses reach World Cup final

Women’s World Cup: Australia 1-3 England FT

Wednesday 16 August 2023 14:45 , Sonia Twigg

England walked out and for a moment it might have felt like they had been there before. A crowd of over 75,000, millions elsewhere turning in. An expectant nation inspired by the power and momentum of a team who represent something greater than themselves.

But this wasn’t the Euros final. This wasn’t Wembley. This time England were the enemy, deep in the land of Matildas fever. This time they faced the crowd, the noise, the jeers and boos, the helicopters hovering over their training session and splashing photos of their plans across the morning newspapers. They faced Australia’s biggest night in a generation. They faced the spirit of Cathy Freeman, and a moment that would unify the country. They faced Sam Kerr, and they heard the eruption that greeted the star of the World Cup finally having her moment.

Full story by Jamie Braidwood in Sydney.

How England deployed dark arts and cool heads to silence Australian noise

Women’s World Cup: Australia 1-3 England FT

Wednesday 16 August 2023 14:35 , Sonia Twigg

England fans celebrated the Lionesses booking their place in the World Cup final the only way they know how - by indulging in “Sweet Caroline”.

England fans sing and dance to ‘Sweet Caroline’ as Lionesses reach World Cup final

Women’s World Cup: Australia 1-3 England FT

Wednesday 16 August 2023 14:20 , Sonia Twigg

Women’s World Cup: Australia 1-3 England FT

Wednesday 16 August 2023 14:08 , Sonia Twigg

Ian Wright wasted no time diving into the celebrations after the game.

Women’s World Cup: Australia 1-3 England FT

Wednesday 16 August 2023 13:57 , Sonia Twigg

Lauren James could return to play in the World Cup final after her England teammates earned their spot in Sunday’s Sydney showpiece with a 1-0 win over hosts Australia.

James was handed a two-game ban by Fifa after being sent off during the last-16 win over Nigeria for a stamp on defender Michelle Alozie during the knockout game, which England won via a penalty shootout.

Will Lauren James play in the Women’s World Cup final?

Women’s World Cup: Australia 1-3 England FT

Wednesday 16 August 2023 13:45 , Sonia Twigg

England are into the Women’s World Cup final after beating Australia 3-1 in the semis, leaving the Lionesses squad dreaming of making it back-to-back major tournament successes.

Having already won Euro 2022 last summer, Sarina Wiegman’s squad will now face Spain on Sunday for a shot a second straight triumph on the biggest stage of all.

Ella Toone, Lauren Hemp and Alessia Russo were all on the scoresheet, with Sam Kerr briefly equalising for the Matilda’s with a stunning long-range effort in the second half. But the day belonged to England as the co-hosts were knocked out, with wing-back Lucy Bronze noting afterwards the atmosphere was a sensational throughout the encounter.

Lionesses react after beating Australia in Women’s World Cup semis

Women’s World Cup: Australia 1-3 England FT

Wednesday 16 August 2023 13:40 , Sonia Twigg

Just a few more stats:

England have qualified for their first ever FIFA Women’s World Cup final, after becoming just the second team to eliminate the tournament hosts at the semi-final stage (Germany won 3-0 against hosts USA in the 2003 semi-final).

Alessia Russo has now scored seven goals in 12 appearances at major tournaments for England (FIFA Women’s World Cup & UEFA European Championships), with only Ellen White (10) and Fara Williams (8) netting more for the Lionesses across the two competitions.

Women’s World Cup: Australia 1-3 England FT

Wednesday 16 August 2023 13:32 , Sonia Twigg

Some Opta stats after the semi-final:

England are unbeaten in all 19 games at the FIFA Women’s World Cup in which they’ve opened the scoring (W17 D2), including winning each of the last 13 when scoring first.

With her goal in this game, Ella Toone became the first England player (men’s and women’s) to score in a quarter-final, semi-final and final of major international tournaments (FIFA Women’s World Cup & UEFA European Championships).

Women’s World Cup: Australia 1-3 England FT

Wednesday 16 August 2023 13:26 , Sonia Twigg

Millie Bright said to the BBC: “I don’t know I think it’s a moment that we’ve wanted for so long.

“We loved the success last summer but we’ve always known there was something missing and that was the world Cup. What an incredible semi-final.

“The mentality of this group is something that I’ve never seen before and i think that comes from Sarina as well.

“We can play many different ways that is the beauty fo this squad and whatever is thrown at us we find a way to adapt and a way to win.”

Women’s World Cup: Australia 1-3 England FT

Wednesday 16 August 2023 13:20 , Sonia Twigg

England reach the game’s grandest stage, having fittingly reached their greatest level so far.

Such was the professionally commanding nature of this 3-1 semi-final win over hosts Australia that they somehow made this moment of glorious football history feel like it was always coming. They have just got better and better as this World Cup has gone on, as symbolised by all of Ella Toone, Lauren Hemp and Alessia Russo coming to form with goals, and as crowned now with a place in the final itself.

It was celebrated, of course, with a delirious rendition of Sweet Caroline in the centre circle.

The full report by Miguel Delaney in Sydney:

How sensational England beat Australia to make World Cup history

Women’s World Cup: Australia 1-3 England FT

Wednesday 16 August 2023 13:16 , Sonia Twigg

Wiegman took the Netherlands to the World Cup final in 2019, where they finished as runners up, but she has the chance to go one better with England on Sunday.

Wiegman added: “The chance as a coach or a player to make two finals is really special. I never take anything for granted, it’s like being in a fairytale or something!”

Women’s World Cup: Australia 1-3 England FT

Wednesday 16 August 2023 13:15 , Sonia Twigg

Wiegman: “We achieved the final and it’s unbelievable. it was an incredible game, an incredible stadium.

“We scored three goals, you’ve been talking about ruthless but i think this team has that ruthlessness. We stick together and we stick to the plan and it worked again.”

On Australia: “I think they have done an incredible job and they really grew in the tournament. You saw today why Sam Kerr is the star fo the team but as a team they are really tough to play against.”

Women’s World Cup: Australia 1-3 England FT

Wednesday 16 August 2023 13:09 , Sonia Twigg

Alessia Russo: “Obviously Spain is going to be even tougher, every game that we’ve played in this tournament has been at the highest level.

“We’ve been dreaming of this since we were little girls.”

Women’s World Cup: Australia 1-3 England FT

Wednesday 16 August 2023 13:07 , Sonia Twigg

Women’s World Cup: Australia 1-3 England FT

Wednesday 16 August 2023 13:00 , Sonia Twigg

Lucy Bronze: “The one thing I’ve always wanted is to be in the final of a World Cup.

“We knew the crowd was going to be crazy tonight and we wanted to silence them and I feel like we did after the third goal.”

She added: “All my family and friends have booked to stay here until after the final because they believed in us.”

Wednesday 16 August 2023 12:58 , Sonia Twigg

England defeated Australia 3-1 to reach their first Women’s World Cup.

Goals from Ella Toone, Lauren Hemp and Alessia Russo were enough to put the Matildas away in Sydney.

Australia has been gripped by World Cup fever after the Matildas’ dramatic penalty shootout victory against France in the quarter-finals became the most-watched sporting event in the country since the 2000 Olympic Games, but Sarina Wiegman’s side had too much in the semi-finals.

Here’s everything you need to know about the Lionesses’ run down under:

Who and when do England play in Women’s World Cup final?

Women’s World Cup: Australia 1-3 England FT

Wednesday 16 August 2023 12:58 , Sonia Twigg

Women’s World Cup: Australia 1-3 England FT

Wednesday 16 August 2023 12:56 , Sonia Twigg

Sweet Caroline is blaring out at the Sydney National Stadium, the players are all dancing in a circle, it is England’s moment.

Jonas Eidevall: “The second half had almost everything. England kept their composure.

“This goal was decided by the chance that Sam Kerr had to equalise the game and then moments later Russo makes it 3-1.”

Women’s World Cup: Australia 1-3 England FT

Wednesday 16 August 2023 12:54 , Sonia Twigg

The whistle blows and England have done it! the substitutes run onto the field to congratulate those on the field.

It is a slightly heartbreaking moment for Kerr and Australia to come so close to a home World Cup final, but it will be England against Spain on Sunday.

Women’s World Cup: Australia 1-3 England 95’

Wednesday 16 August 2023 12:52 , Sonia Twigg

England are on the brink of a first World Cup final, for any team, women’s or men’s since 1966.

It hasn’t been the most straightforward route to the final when the Lionesses squeezed past Nigeria on penalties, but they have performed at the right time.

There was hardly a foot put wrong by England against the host nation Australia, and the only goal they conceded was a stunning indvidual effort from one of the best players in the world.

Women’s World Cup: Australia 1-2 England 90'

Wednesday 16 August 2023 12:48 , Sonia Twigg

There will be six minutes of added time. The Australia head coach was aggrieved and felt like there should have been more.

But just six minutes of football separate England from a World Cup final.

GOAL: Australia 1-3 England

Wednesday 16 August 2023 12:44 , Sonia Twigg

GOAL: Russo has struck and that has surely put England through to the final.

Kerr had just missed at one end, and England broke immediately to score at the other.

Russo was perfectly picked out by Hemp and timed her run expertly, before shooting with pace into the far corner to beat Arnold.

Women’s World Cup: Australia 1-2 England 85'

Wednesday 16 August 2023 12:42 , Sonia Twigg

Miss! Kerr has missed.

That might have been Australia’s chance. The ball came out after a corner and Kerr just had to hit the back of the net.

It was a first-time volley, but it was wide of the goal. England survive.

Women’s World Cup: Australia 1-2 England 83'

Wednesday 16 August 2023 12:41 , Sonia Twigg

Chance! Earps had to make a low diving save to deny substitute Vine’s strike.

It was a well-timed hit, but the England goalkeeper had dived at the perfect moment to make the stop.

Women’s World Cup: Australia 1-2 England 80'

Wednesday 16 August 2023 12:40 , Sonia Twigg

Chance! Kerr had another chance.

The forward was just picked out running into the box, her run had beaten the England defenders, but the ball was slightly over her head, despite trying to flick it on from the back of her head, it was over the goal.

Australia are not out of this yet.

Women’s World Cup: Australia 1-2 England 78'

Wednesday 16 August 2023 12:35 , Sonia Twigg

Chance! Bright heads over.

Before that Stanway fired well over the bar, England have had their chances but Arnold has not been forced into a save.

Women’s World Cup: Australia 1-2 England 76’

Wednesday 16 August 2023 12:34 , Sonia Twigg

Australia are running out of time to get back into this match, and England have not taken their foot off the gas.

The Lionesses are pushing forward at every opportunity, and have looked the more dangerous since the goal.

GOAL: Women’s World Cup: Australia 1-2 England 77'

Wednesday 16 August 2023 12:33 , Jack Rathborn

GOAL: Women’s World Cup: Australia 1-2 England 71’

Wednesday 16 August 2023 12:29 , Jack Rathborn

GOAL: England take their lead back, Lauren Hemp has fired past Arnold.

It was a long ball from Bright and the Australian defender Ellie Carpenter should have done better to clear the ball.

Hemp won the ball and fired into the back of the net to restore England’s advantage.

Women’s World Cup: Australia 1-1 England 69'

Wednesday 16 August 2023 12:26 , Sonia Twigg

Chance! Lucy Bronze has an attempted chip, but she was almost on the touchline and could not find the angle to bend it towards goal.

Arnold did not palm it away and it skewed across the face of goal.

Wednesday 16 August 2023 12:24 , Jack Rathborn

Women’s World Cup: Australia 1-1 England 67’

Wednesday 16 August 2023 12:23 , Sonia Twigg

An extra spark has just been injected into the game, and tensions are up.

The referee has just had to have a word before a corner to try and calm everything down but it’s fever pitch in Sydney.

GOAL: Sam Kerr strikes Australia 1-1 England

Wednesday 16 August 2023 12:21 , Jack Rathborn

GOAL: That will be one for the history books, an absolutely stunning individual effort from Kerr has levelled the game.

Kerr recieved the ball inside the Australian half and ran at Bright and Greenwood.

Foord was free, but Kerr did not need her, unleashing a shot into the top corner she has done something exceptional to drag her side back level.

Women’s World Cup: Australia 0-1 England 60’

Wednesday 16 August 2023 12:19 , Sonia Twigg

Just half an hour left in the game now and England still hold on to their single goal advantage.

Australia still have time to carefully build their attacks and we’re not in last-ditch territory yet, but there will be a few nerves floating around the stadium in Sydney.

Women’s World Cup: Australia 0-1 England - Ella Toone celebration explained

Wednesday 16 August 2023 12:17 , Sonia Twigg

Ella Toone struck a magnificent opener for England against Australia in the Women’s World Cup semi-final.

The Manchester United star smashed the ball high into the top corner before wheeling away in delight with her teammates.

The 23-year-old, who has grabbed her opportunity in place of the suspended Lauren James, explained her celebration ahead of time.

Ella Toone celebration explained after World Cup semi-final goal

Women’s World Cup: Australia 0-1 England 58’

Wednesday 16 August 2023 12:15 , Sonia Twigg

Chance! Arnold has to make a palmed save to deny Hemp!

Hemp did well to get he shot underway but the Australian goalkeeper was always on top of it.

England benefitted with a corner, but Millie Bright’s header was just wide of the far post.

Women’s World Cup: Australia 0-1 England 57’

Wednesday 16 August 2023 12:14 , Sonia Twigg

The pace of the game is just slowing down here.

England are taking their time to play the ball around at the back before looking for the long ball.

It’s an interesting change when the majority of England’s threat has been down the wings and balls played into the danger players like Hemp.

Women’s World Cup: Australia 0-1 England 54’

Wednesday 16 August 2023 12:12 , Sonia Twigg

Australia’s tactics are clear, they are going to try and break quickly, but with England in the lead they can afford to keep their numbers back.

Kerr has been kept largely subdued so far, after receiving a couple of fouls in the first half as the Lionesses bared their teeth early on.

Women’s World Cup: Australia 0-1 England 52’

Wednesday 16 August 2023 12:10 , Sonia Twigg

Despite being a bit subdued after the goal, the crowd have made themselves known in the second half.

Loud boos have rung out every time England have sustained possession or get towards the Australian goal.

Women’s World Cup: Australia 0-1 England 49’

Wednesday 16 August 2023 12:06 , Sonia Twigg

It has been a calmer start to the second half than the frantic first few minutes at the start of the game and concerningly for England, Australia have started well.

A ball to the back post was headed goalwards by Fowler, it was slightly over her head and she couldn’t get pace on it so it was straight into Earps’ hands.

Women’s World Cup: Australia 0-1 England 46'

Wednesday 16 August 2023 12:02 , Sonia Twigg

The second half is underway, the Matildas kick off to get the game underway after the half-time lights show.

Women’s World Cup: Australia 0-1 England - HT

Wednesday 16 August 2023 11:58 , Sonia Twigg

To welcome the teams out for the second half, the lights went out and everyone held their phone aloft with a light to the tune of Coldplay’s Sky Full of Stars.

The players emerged from the tunnel and the second half is about to get underway.

Women’s World Cup: Australia 0-1 England - HT

Wednesday 16 August 2023 11:55 , Sonia Twigg

Ella Toone has grabbed the headlines so far despite having been left out in favour of Lauren James earlier in the tournament and the commentators have had their say:

Alex Scott said on BBC One: "She lost her place to Lauren James, she's saying, 'don't forget about me,' what a goal it was."

While Lionesses record goalscorer Ellen White said: “You can't hear anybody speak on the pitch, you go off body language, they've silence them a bit," said White. "If England get one more, I think the crowd could turn.

“There's a bit of bite behind that, I'm still here, I'm here for a show, I'm not going anywhere and I'm taking this team to a World Cup final."

Women’s World Cup: Australia 0-1 England - HT

Wednesday 16 August 2023 11:52 , Sonia Twigg

Fans have been celebrating the Lionesses goal all over the country:

Women’s World Cup: Australia 0-1 England - HT

Wednesday 16 August 2023 11:50 , Sonia Twigg

Some of the pundits have had their say after a gripping half of football:

"It's opened some space for the attacking midfielders, it's Stanway and Toone, involved in most of the opportunities. They've done that so well," said Jonas Eidevall.

Women’s World Cup: Australia 0-1 England - HT

Wednesday 16 August 2023 11:47 , Sonia Twigg

One last chance from Australia, but England defend strongly and it’s half time.

After just the one minute of added time at the end of the first half, a surprise given how much has been added on in the rest of the tournaments, but England go into the break with the crucial one-goal advantage.

Women’s World Cup: Australia 0-1 England - 44’

Wednesday 16 August 2023 11:44 , Sonia Twigg

The crowd has been noticeably subdued by the goal, and England came close to having another chance.

Hemp headed a cross straight at goalkeeper Arnold, but the whistle was blown for a foul by the Lionesses winger.

Women’s World Cup: Australia 0-1 England - 42’

Wednesday 16 August 2023 11:42 , Jack Rathborn

Women’s World Cup: Australia 0-1 England - 38’

Wednesday 16 August 2023 11:39 , Jack Rathborn

England have not lost a World Cup match where they have scored first, but there is a long way to go still in this game.

What a moment for Toone who has had to bide her time for opportunities.

Australia have a chance almost immediatley aftetwards, but the shot from Katrina Gorry from outside the box was straight at goalkeeper Earps.

GOAL: Australia 0-1 England 36'

Wednesday 16 August 2023 11:38 , Jack Rathborn

GOAL: Ella Toone strikes for England and the host nation are behind!

It was a stunning strike from the middle of the box straight into the top corner.

A clever move from England down the left hand side, with Hemp playing in the unmarked Toone who hit the ball first time.

Women’s World Cup: Australia 0-0 England - 32’

Wednesday 16 August 2023 11:34 , Sonia Twigg

Australia are growing into this game, they break quickly with four players, and the final ball is over all of those in the box, but it will be slightly worrying to England.

The Matildas look dangerous every time they break, and they break with pace.

Women’s World Cup: Australia 0-0 England - 30'

Wednesday 16 August 2023 11:32 , Sonia Twigg

Bronze was needed there for Sarina Wiegman’s side to head the ball away from danger, in the first sustained period of pressure from the hosts.

England able to clear and mount an attack of their own, but they have been largely frustrated by the Matildas defence in the opening half an hour.

Women’s World Cup: Australia 0-0 England - 27’

Wednesday 16 August 2023 11:29 , Sonia Twigg

There have been a few fouls flying around, which could be a sign of the occasion.

Australia benefitting after another late challenge from Walsh. It’s an enthralling match between the two sides, but the Matildas have lacked a killer instinct in the final third so far.

Women’s World Cup: Australia 0-0 England - 24’

Wednesday 16 August 2023 11:25 , Sonia Twigg

Kerr has continued to cause problems for England and has taken a knock to the face from the ball, but the foul is given for a high boot from Jess Carter.

It’s still goalless in Sydney.

Women’s World Cup: Australia 0-0 England - 20’

Wednesday 16 August 2023 11:21 , Sonia Twigg

After a frantic start, the tempo of the game is just slowing down slightly.

England have had more of the ball, with Australia sitting back, but with Kerr up front they are never really out of the game.

The Lionesses have made a few stray passes that could be a sign of the magnitude of the occasion but it is something they will want to cut out as the game continues.

Women’s World Cup: Australia 0-0 England - 19’

Wednesday 16 August 2023 11:19 , Jack Rathborn

Women’s World Cup: Australia 0-0 England - 17’

Wednesday 16 August 2023 11:19 , Sonia Twigg

Chance! England are playing some lovely link-up play but can’t quite find the end product.

Russo played in Hemp but she was in a wide position in the box and struggled to create an angle to have a clear shot, when she did strike it was into the side netting.

Women’s World Cup: Australia 0-0 England - 14'

Wednesday 16 August 2023 11:16 , Sonia Twigg

Australia’s defending has been impressive so far, jumping in front of Lucy Bronze when she was going for a header and cutting out a number of England’s long balls.

It has been a high-energy and close game so far but other than the one Stanway chance, opportunities to score have been minimal.

Women’s World Cup: Australia 0-0 England - 10'

Wednesday 16 August 2023 11:12 , Sonia Twigg

Yellow card: Greenwood has sliced down Kerr and rightly receives a yellow card for it.

At the other end Australia have put the ball into the box, this is end to end stuff.

Women’s World Cup: Australia 0-0 England - 9'

Wednesday 16 August 2023 11:11 , Sonia Twigg

Chance for England! Alex Greenwood has perfectly picked out Georgia Stanway with a stunning ball that played her in behind the England defence.

However Stanway could not get it under control and it was saved by goalkeeper Mackenzie Arnold.

England will be encouraged by that.

Women’s World Cup: Australia 0-0 England - 8'

Wednesday 16 August 2023 11:09 , Sonia Twigg

Chance! Kerr was played through in a one on one situation with Earps, but the goalkeeper was able to make the save.

When the ball went out of play the flag went up, and Kerr was marginally offside, but it’s an early warning for the visitors.

Women’s World Cup: Australia 0-0 England - 6'

Wednesday 16 August 2023 11:08 , Sonia Twigg

Australia are starting to put pressure on the England back line now, and are chasing down everything, forcing Mary Earps to kick the ball up field to clear the lines.

There are cheers accompanying every string of passes from the Matildas, never mind any chances.

Women’s World Cup: Australia 0-0 England - 4'

Wednesday 16 August 2023 11:05 , Sonia Twigg

England are just struggling to get possession out of their half here.

Australia are sitting back until the half way line but are quick to intercept any probing balls towards the England forwards.

Women’s World Cup: Australia 0-0 England - 1’

Wednesday 16 August 2023 11:02 , Sonia Twigg

England have got stuck in immediately, and Keira Walsh has fouled Kerr!

An unecessary foul, just catching the Australian forward, but it could be a sign for how England are going to play against Kerr.

Women’s World Cup: Australia 0-0 England - 1’

Wednesday 16 August 2023 11:01 , Sonia Twigg

KICK OFF: After exchanging flags between Sam Kerr and Millie Bright, it is finally time for the main event.

England kick the game undereway in the light blue tops and dark blue shorts. Their first time this tournament playing in a changed strip.

Women’s World Cup: Australia vs England

Wednesday 16 August 2023 10:56 , Sonia Twigg

Women’s World Cup: Australia vs England

Wednesday 16 August 2023 10:55 , Sonia Twigg

It’s completely sold out, and the players are coming out of the tunnel for the anthems.

It’s a stadium with a lot of history, with the Olympics and the Rugby World Cup final echoing, but this is a new stage for the sport.

Women’s World Cup: Australia vs England

Wednesday 16 August 2023 10:45 , Sonia Twigg

The fans have fully embraced this contest:

Women’s World Cup: Australia vs England

Wednesday 16 August 2023 10:33 , Jack Rathborn

Under half an hour to go now before the highly anticipated semi-final between Australia and England.

The historic rivalry between the two nations has entered the football sphere for the first time and it is all building up to the contest.

Women’s World Cup: Australia vs England

Wednesday 16 August 2023 10:26 , Sonia Twigg

The players are out and warming up in Sydney:

Women’s World Cup: Australia vs England

Wednesday 16 August 2023 10:25 , Jack Rathborn

Women’s World Cup: Australia vs England

Wednesday 16 August 2023 10:11 , Jack Rathborn

"We've got a great squad, we've had to work really hard for our spot on the team, we're gelling really well," says Jess Carter.

“Everybody is chilled, there’s history, we’re excited for the game.

“She [Sam Kerr] is a top player, but we’re well equipped to deal with her and what Australia throw at us.

“It’s exciting, the atmosphere will give us that extra motivation.”

Women’s World Cup: Australia vs England

Wednesday 16 August 2023 10:00 , Jack Rathborn

England have arrived at Stadium Australia, this was the Lionesses’ bus pulling up a short while ago.

Women’s World Cup: England vs Australia

Wednesday 16 August 2023 09:51 , Sonia Twigg

More than eight million Australians tuned in for Cathy Freeman’s race to victory in the 400 metres back in 2000, a figure that could be under threat if the Matildas can reach the final.

That figure has long been considered the benchmark for a sport, but the World Cup has taken over the country with a population of under 26 million.

In 2003, four million average viewers tuned in for the Rugby World Cup final where England narrowly beat host nation Australia, and that figure could be eclipsed by the game today.

Women’s World Cup: England vs Australia

Wednesday 16 August 2023 09:44 , Sonia Twigg

World Cup fever has definitely taken over the land down under, children at schools had dress up in green and gold days earlier today.

Matildas merchandise has sold out across the country and it has been the biggest event since the 2000 Olympics which were held in Sydney.

The front and back pages have been dominated by the women’s football and it will be at fever pitch tonight.

Women’s World Cup: England vs Australia - Team news!

Wednesday 16 August 2023 09:40 , Jamie Braidwood

Sam Kerr starts for Australia in their World Cup semi-final against England, as the Matildas make two changes.

Kerr comes in for her first start of the World Cup after missing the group stages with injury and being limited to the bench in the last-16 and quarter-finals. The striker comes in for Emily van Egmond, who is on the bench.

The Matildas will be without defener Alanna Kennedy, who has been ruled out with illness and doesn’t even make the bench. She is replaced by the experienced Clare Polkinghorne.

Australia XI: Arnold; Carpenter, Hunt, Polkinghorne, Catley; Raso, Gorry, Cooney-Cross, Catley; Fowler, Kerr

Women’s World Cup: England vs Australia - Team news!

Wednesday 16 August 2023 09:33 , Jamie Braidwood

Team news!

The Lionesses are unchanged from their quarter-final win against Colombia.

Lauren James remains unavailable, with the forward serving the second match of her two-game ban, although she will now be free to play either the final or the third-place place playoff, depending on England’s result against Australia.

The Lionesses have a fully fit squad elsewhere. Sarina Wiegman keeps her 3-5-2 formation and the back three of Jess Carter, Millie Bright and Alex Greenwood, which has excelled in front of goalkeeper Mary Earps. Lucy Bronze and Rachel Daly continue as wing-backs.

Keira Walsh will start at the base of the midfield, with Georgia Stanway alongside her. Ella Toone keeps her place, despite some questions over her form.

Alessia Russo and Lauren Hemp both scored against Colombia and lead the line, with Chloe Kelly and Beth England the other attacking options from the bench.

England XI: Earps; Carter, Bright, Greenwood; Bronze, Walsh, Stanway, Daly; Toone; Hemp, Russo

Women’s World Cup: England vs Australia

Wednesday 16 August 2023 09:30 , Sonia Twigg

After Sarina Wiegman finished her press conference following the victory over Colombia on Saturday, England’s Dutch coach was so struck by the number of questions about England’s historic sporting rivalry with Australia that she immediately started asking staff members about the extent of it. She quickly realised she had underestimated just how much this meant.

Those at the England camp duly filled her in, although, as one staff member laughed: “It’s not like we showed her old clips of the Ashes.” They maybe didn’t need to.

A trip to the shop beside England’s otherwise tranquil Terrigal base would have shown how intense it’s all getting. The front page of The West Australian – the newspaper that covers Australian player Sam Kerr’s home city of Perth – read: “And you thought the Ashes was big!”

Old rivalry has new stage as World Cup arrives at its biggest moment

Women’s World Cup: Australia vs England

Wednesday 16 August 2023 09:22 , Jack Rathborn

Women’s World Cup: England vs Australia

Wednesday 16 August 2023 09:14 , Jamie Braidwood

As England are preparing to play Australia in the World Cup semi-finals so too, crucially, is Georgia Stanway. After playing through five matches at the tournament on a yellow card and with the threat of a one-match suspension hanging over her head, the combative Lionesses midfielder successfully walked the tightrope to reach the point where bookings are wiped.

A younger Stanway perhaps wouldn’t have been so careful, and would have fallen foul of her instincts to challenge for balls that were not there to be won. There was, admittedly, one nervous moment, during the heat of battle against Colombia in the quarter-finals, when Stanway thought she had pushed her aggression too far after a mistimed tackle. Overall, though, the midfielder has shown restraint and control to reach the semi-finals in the clear. “I’m very, very grateful about that,” Stanway laughs, and England are as well.

To do so, Stanway had to become “disciplined Georgia”, a change in mental approach that has been worked on with the help of an influential mentor, whose identity comes as a surprise to those who are gathered at England’s Terrigal training base.

How Georgia Stanway found World Cup ‘discipline’ thanks to surprise mentor

Click here to read the full blog on The Independent's website