ENGLAND are two Women’s World Cup wins away from creating history – but hosts Australia stand in their way.
Alessia Russo’s superb second-half strike sent giant killers Colombia crashing out at the quarter-final stage.
And many labelled England’s performance as heroic having had to fight from 1-0 down after Santos’ incredible effort.
However, Sarina Wiegman’s women are set to enter a cauldron for the semi-final as they take on Australia in their own backyard.
The Aussies got the better of England when the sides last met in April – but that was a friendly.
England are yet to lose a competitive match under Wiegman.
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And the Lionesses have continued to prove that they can produce a result when it matters, no matter the circumstances.
For that reason, they are approaching the game with confidence and some cautious optimism.
What is their form like?
England are undefeated so far at this Women’s World Cup, having secured wins over Haiti, Denmark, China, Nigeria (on penalties) and Colombia.
Meanwhile, Australia have suffered one defeat – to Nigeria.
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The Matildas suffered a 3-2 loss to the Super Falcons in the group stages before sealing a 4-0 win over Canada to top Group B.
Australia saw off France in the quarter-finals, winning 7-6 on penalties following a 0-0 draw.
Who will be the star players?
Alex Greenwood has been an unsung hero for the Lionesses so far at the Women’s World Cup.
Her performances in defence have been faultless and she is a real leader among the team.
Alessia Russo and Lauren Hemp are also ones to watch.
Both strikers were excellent in Saturday’s game against Colombia and were rewarded with a goal each.
For Australia, Sam Kerr is most certainly the player to watch.
Although she has missed a chunk of the tournament so far due to an injury, the striker is likely to start against England.
Kerr scored against the Lionesses when the Matildas earned a 2-0 win over them in a friendly in April.
What has been said?
England boss Wiegman does not fear the Matildas. In fact, she is excited about Wednesday’s clash.
Speaking to the media on Saturday, she said: “It is going to be really big. I’ve had a couple of questions about the rivalry, so it’s going to be bigger than I thought it was.
“I really like the people here, but that doesn’t mean there’s no rivalry here.”
SunSport’s prediction
One thing is for sure – this’ll definitely be a tight game.
But England have found a way to win when it matters on every occasion since Wiegman took over, no matter how good the opponent.
So for that reason, we think England could progress on Wednesday.
Prediction: England 2-1 Australia
When is England vs Australia?
- England’s huge semi-final contest against Australia will take place on Wednesday, August 16.
- It is scheduled to get underway at 11am BST.
- Accor Stadium in Sydney, Australia is the allocated arena for this intriguing contest and it can host approximately 83,500 fans.
- Goals from Sam Kerr and Charlotte Grant saw Australia beat England in an April friendly.
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What TV channel is it on and can it be live streamed?
- England vs Australia will be broadcast LIVE on BBC One in the UK.
- Coverage is expected to commence from 10am BST – a whole hour before kick-off.
- Fans also have the option to live stream the match via the BBC iPlayer app or BBC Sport website.
- Alternatively, SunSport will have minute-by-minute coverage of the entire game through our live blog which includes build-up and post-match reaction.
Can I watch it for FREE?
Yes!
BBC One and BBC Sport will be showing the match for FREE as long as you have a valid TV license in the UK.
Team news
Sarina Wiegman reassured fans that Rachel Daly should be fit to face Australia despite appearing to twist her knee in the Colombia win.
The England boss told talkSPORT: “I’m not worried at all. I think it’s fatigue.
“But I haven’t spoken to [the team], I don’t think there are concerns.”
As for Lauren James, the English star will continue to serve her suspension.
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The Chelsea ace picked up a two-game ban after stamping on Michelle Alozie during England’s round-of-16 match against Nigeria.
She served part of the suspension against Colombia on Saturday, but should be back for the final if the Lionesses make it there.
Source: Soccer - thesun.co.uk
