Ella Toone has given England the lead in spectacular style against Australia in the 2023 Women’s World Cup semi-final clash.
Heading into the tournament, European champions England are amongst the favourites to go all the way and lift the World Cup.
Sarina Wiegman’s side won all three matches in the group stage before digging deep to beat Nigeria and Colombia in the last-16 and quarter-finals.
With the likes of the United States, Germany, France and Sweden all eliminated, many felt that England are now the clear favourites to go all the way in the competition.On Wednesday morning, England were up against the co-hosts Australia at the Stadium Australia in Sydney.
The co hosts have been in fine form as they secured a place in the semi finals of a World Cup for the first time in their history.
In front of the packed crowd inside the Stadium Australia, both sides had chances to get an early but both defences stood strong.
Star striker Sam Kerr had an early chance to put Australia in front but she was first denied by England goalkeeper Mary Earps and then by the offside flag.
With 35 minutes on the clock, Ella Toone produced something out of the very top drawer to smash England into the lead.The ball fell perfectly into her path and she used the outside of her boot to arrow the ball right into the top of the net.Former England player Rachel Brown Finnis said: “Sumptuous play, good build up from England. What about that! Strike through the ball. Top bins, side netting.
“That is the way to answer any criticism that Ella Toone has had this tournament, I am delighted for her.”
Toone somewhat had a point to prove after she was dropped to the bench after England's opening fixture against Haiti. Lauren James' red card against Nigeria meant Toone was brought back into the fold by the manager.
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