The Suncorp Stadium in Brisbane set the stage for a remarkable event during the quarterfinal match between Australia and France, as the longest penalty shootout in FIFA Women's World Cup history unfolded on Saturday.
Following a penalty shootout that saw both teams take 10 kicks each, Australia clinched a hard-fought victory with a 7-6 scoreline. Cortnee Vine's confident execution of the decisive penalty not only secured the Matildas' triumph but also propelled them into the tournament's semifinals, achieving a significant milestone as hosts of the competition.
After 120 minutes of play, including added time, the contest between Australia and France ended without any goals, leading to the requirement of a penalty shootout.
The penalty shootout began with Selma Bacha's endeavor for France, yet her missed shot handed Australia an upper hand. Caitlin Foord subsequently displayed composure, successfully converting her shot, thereby securing a straightforward goal and giving the hosts the lead.
Displaying composure, Cortnee Vine adeptly converted Australia's 10th penalty from the spot. Her skillful execution secured a 7-6 triumph for the Matildas in the penalty shootout, concluding a quarterfinal game that remained goalless during both regulation and extra time.
Despite Australia's inability to capitalize on their previous chances for an exciting shootout triumph, their endeavors lost significance as they finally put an end to a longstanding curse faced by tournament hosts.
During the additional time, Mackenzie Arnold, the Australian goalkeeper, played a crucial role in maintaining the Matildas' competitiveness, executing a series of vital saves during the shootout. Intriguingly, she even managed to block a shot despite her own missed attempt that could have secured victory.
Taking the lead in the shootout, it was Foord who led the charge for Australia, demonstrating composure as she adeptly placed the ball past France's substitute goalkeeper Solene Durand.
Australia's second attempt, taken by Steph Catley, veered off course, and despite the disapproving chorus from the crowd, Wendie Renard managed to convert, giving France a 2-1 advantage. Sam Kerr subsequently equalized the score at 2-2, followed by Eugenie Le Sommer's accurate low shot into the right post, securing a 3-2 lead for France.
Mary Fowler restored Australia's competitive position with an equalizing goal, and Mackenzie Arnold came to the rescue with a save. Following another pivotal save, Arnold found herself in a position to potentially secure victory for the host nation with her own penalty shot. Unfortunately, her attempt fell short of the mark.
In the tiebreaker round, with the score tied at 6-6, Kenza Dali of France had two opportunities, but both were thwarted by Arnold. The first attempt underwent VAR scrutiny, and the subsequent retaken penalty was adeptly stopped by Arnold.
Australia's opportunity to clinch victory was met with frustration as Clare Hunt's shot was aimed down the center, only for Durand to manage a crucial deflection, preventing a goal.
After Becho skillfully curved a right-footed shot into the left post, Vine stepped up to the penalty spot, presenting Australia with a third opportunity to secure the win.
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