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The Lionesses continued their winning run in the ongoing FIFA Women's World Cup 2023 as they knocked out the hosts, Australia 3-1 in the semi-final on Wednesday, August 16. While three different players scored goals for England, Samantha Kerr was the only goal-scorer for the Matildas in the semi-final clash.
With this victory, England qualified for their first-ever women's world cup final and the country's first FIFA World Cup final appearance since 1966. The Lionesses will next face Spain in the FIFA Women's World Cup 2023 final on August 20. On the other hand, the Spanish side defeated Sweden 2-1 in the semifinal on Tuesday at the Eden Park in Auckland.
Also watch: Ella Toone and Samantha Kerr's goals in FIFA Women's World Cup 2023 semi-final
England drew the first blood in their intense semi-final clash against Australia as attacking midfielder Ella Toone scored the opener in the 36th minute and guided England to a 1-0 lead at the end of half-time. However, Australia star Samantha Kerr pulled off a sensational solo goal from outside the box to level the game in the 63rd minute.
Despite the 29-year-old's equaliser that brought back hopes for the home fans at the Stadium Australia, the Lionesses striker Lauren Hemp restored England's lead in the 71st minute. In the last 10 minutes of the game, Australia received a couple of opportunities to again equalise the game, however, Kerr missed both chances from 10 and six yards respectively.
After failing twice, the momentum shifted towards England, who went on to put the last nail in the coffin. England and Arsenal forward Alessia Russo scored finished the game with an angled finished at the bottom-left corner. Australia are scheduled to face Sweden for the third-place matchup on Saturday, August 19.
