England 2-1 Colombia: Lionesses come from behind to set up World Cup semi-final against Australia
Alessia Russo fired England into their third World Cup semi-final in the second half to complete a 2-1 comeback over Colombia at a sold-out stadium in Australia.Leicy Santos put Colombia ahead when she headed past Mary Earps after 44 minutes, but saw her opener canceled out after Lauren Hemp pounced on a mistake by Colombia goalkeeper Catalina Perez six minutes into first-half stoppage time.
Georgia Stanway set up Russo's low finish to give the Lionesses the lead in the 63rd minute, and while Colombia progressed against the European champions, an equalizer was ultimately out of reach.England next face tournament co-hosts Australia, who beat France 7-6 on penalties in the opening kick-off.
Colombia, who knocked out world number two Germany with a 2-1 victory in the group stage, looked to complete another giant-killing here.Meanwhile, the Lionesses were without the services of Lauren James, with Ella Toone coming on for Sarina Wiegman, while the Chelsea forward served the first match of her two-match suspension.
Although China benefited from strong support during England's final group stage contest, it was nothing compared to the deafening noise that emerged from the stands when the Colombian anthem began to play.
Earps latched on to Catalina Usme's cross before England came up empty after a flurry of early attempts, starting with Russo's header from six yards before Perez stuck out a leg to prevent Hemp netting an early set-piece.
Russo saw another close-range attempt blocked and soon after Colombia were dealt a blow when defender Carolina Arias went off with an injury and was replaced by Ana Guzman.Linda Caicedo, the 18-year-old Real Madrid striker considered one of Las Cafeteras' most effective weapons in this tournament, got ahead of Jess Carter from the left but her effort flew over the woodwork.
England made two appeals to American referee Ekaterina Koroleva after Guzman knocked first Hemp and then Rachel Daly, who soon came close after Stanway's cross into the penalty area but nodded straight into the arms of a waiting Perez.The Lionesses continued to be tested by the mild-mannered Colombians, who dispossessed England after Hemp broke free down the right and tried to pick out Toone.
Captain Millie Bright, who had already nodded superbly to block Manuela Vanegas, anchored a composed backline that survived 120 minutes of a goalless draw against Nigeria, 30 of which were missing after James' dismissal.
Colombia broke the deadlock when Santos curled in an effort from the right corner of the penalty area.Earps pounced at full strength but the ball flew over her and just between her fingertips and the crossbar for the 44th-minute opener as the Colombian support roared.
England ensured the celebrations were cut short after the Colombian keeper failed to make what looked like a simple stop and Hemp surged forward to punish Perez, who failed to scramble back to her feet in time to prevent the equalizer and make it all OK. break.Daly headed another header into Perez's waiting arms after the restart, which began with a little less of the frenetic energy that had characterized the first period.
It was Stanway who provided the pass that gave England their first lead of the game, slotting the ball into the area for the onrushing Russo to make it 2-1 when he outwitted his marker and finished to the bottom left. corner.
Colombia were forced to replace their goalkeeper after Perez went down with an apparent head injury, but remained determined in search of an equalizer of their own.Durango's Lorena Bedoya had an early chance and fired a dangerous cross to Earps, who nodded in assuredly after diving to tip the Real Brasilia midfielder's effort over the bar.
England's lead never looked secure as Colombia fought for their chances in eight minutes of stoppage time, including efforts from substitute Ivonne Chacon, Vanegas - whose stoppage-time effort made the difference against Germany - and Caicedo, who once fired wide of England's goal. of her last chances to make history.The Lionesses, who have never reached a World Cup final, are now just one win away from reaching the showpiece.
In a thrilling encounter at the Women's World Cup, England's women's football team showed incredible resilience and determination as they came from behind to beat Colombia with a 2-1 victory. This electrifying victory set the stage for the much-anticipated semi-final showdown against Australia, a match that promises to be a true spectacle of skill and athleticism.
The Lionesses faced a huge challenge as Colombia took the lead in the first half and showcased their offensive prowess. However, England's indomitable spirit and tactical prowess shone through and they staged a stunning comeback, much to the delight of their passionate fans and supporters around the world.
The hero of the hour was none other than the successful English striker, who scored a crucial turn and turned the game in favor of her team. Her clinical finishing and ability to seize the moment under immense pressure demonstrate the caliber of talent that has taken the Lionesses to the pinnacle of international women's football.
This thrilling victory not only secures England a place in the semi-finals of the World Cup, but also sends a strong message to their upcoming opponents, Australia. The clash between these two football giants is set to be a true battle of the titans, with each team fighting for a coveted place in the finals. The world will be watching as the Lionesses take on the Matildas, making this a must watch match for every football fan.
England's journey to this point has been marked by exceptional teamwork, unwavering determination and a hunger to win. Their performance against Colombia showed their ability to adapt to difficult situations, keep calm under pressure and exploit their opponents' weaknesses. Those qualities will no doubt be vital as they prepare to face Australia in what promises to be a defining moment at the World Cup.
As fans and pundits alike eagerly await the semi-final clash between England and Australia, it is important to acknowledge the incredible journey that has brought the Lionesses to this stage. Their dedication and hard work has paid off and they are now one step away from potentially writing their names in football history.
The Lions' triumph over Colombia has set the stage for a sensational semi-final clash with Australia, and football fans around the world are counting down the days until the two powerhouses meet. It is a match that will test the mettle of both teams and provide a spectacle of the highest order as they fight not only for victory but also for a place in the World Cup finals.
In the coming days, football fans will be eager to analyze every aspect of this upcoming clash – from the players' form and strategies to the moments that could shift the momentum in favor of either team. The Lionesses are primed and ready and their fans have every reason to believe in their ability to secure another historic victory.
As excitement builds and anticipation reaches fever pitch, England and Australia prepare to make history on the football field. This semi-final encounter is not just a match; it is a testament to the hard work, determination and passion that drives women's football and promises to be a true celebration of the beautiful game. Lionesses came from behind and now stand at the pinnacle of greatness. Let the fight for World Cup glory continue!
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