With a 3-1 win against co-host Australia on Wednesday, England advanced to its first FIFA Women’s World Cup final match and put an end to the Matildas’ fascinating tournament run.
The Matildas’ standout player Sam Kerr of Australia began her first game of the competition and scored a goal, but it wasn’t enough to defeat European champion England.
The Lionesses had the most of the ball in the first half after Ella Toone’s goal gave England a 1-0 lead in the 36th minute.
The 75,000+ spectators had some optimism after Kerr’s equalizer in the 63rd minute, but England went on to win with to goals from Lauren Hemp in the 71st and Alessia Russo with four minutes remaining in regulation.
When England and Spain face off in the Women’s World Cup final on Sunday at Stadium Australia, it will be their first time competing in the event. On Saturday in Brisbane, Australia will compete against Sweden for third place.