England has clinched their inaugural spot in the FIFA Women's World Cup™ final after an exhilarating 3-1 victory against Australia in Sydney. In the first half, Ella Toone put the Lionesses ahead, countered by a leveling goal from Sam Kerr of the co-hosts. However, goals by Lauren Hemp and Alessia Russo paved the way for a decisive match against Spain on Sunday.

"Over the moon, incredible.  When they scored they got momentum, the place erupted and then Hempo's goal just flipped the momentum which was crucial so to get 3-1 you can settle a bit and see the game out. That's why we do what we do on the pitch, it is because of all our friends and family. To celebrate with them now is really special."
Alessia Russo, England

Right from the beginning, the match was characterized by an open style of play, and within the initial 10 minutes, England's chance to take the lead was thwarted. Mackenzie Arnold made a crucial save with her right leg after a splendid pass from Alex Greenwood, denying Georgia Stanway's shot.

On the 36th minute mark, England managed to take the lead as Russo demonstrated determination within the penalty area, delivering the ball back to Toone who skillfully blasted a shot into the upper corner of the net.

Australia equalized in the 63rd minute with an even more remarkable goal. Kerr took possession of the ball at the midfield line, proceeded to advance towards her Chelsea teammate Millie Bright, and subsequently unleashed a thunderous 30-yard shot that soared over Mary Earps.

However, the balance was maintained for merely eight minutes, as the Australian defense faltered in handling Bright's lengthy forward pass. Hemp, displaying remarkable determination, skillfully guided her shot past Arnold.

Kerr squandered two excellent opportunities to once again level the score for the Matildas before England secured their spot in the final with a mere four minutes remaining. In this decisive moment, Hemp executed an exceptional pass that found Russo, whose skillfully angled shot eluded Arnold's grasp.

"We achieved the final and it's unbelievable. It feels like we won it but we didn't win it, we just won this game. We played a hard game but again we found a way to win. We scored three goals. We want to keep the ball out of the net and we really want to win. We stick together and stick to the plan and it worked again."
Sarina Wiegman, England coach