The girl wearing the Sam Kerr face mask was clearly upset, although no tears were visible on the cardboard surface. Her chin quivered and shook, while her mother comfortingly draped an arm around her hunched shoulders. It was clear that Australia, the co-hosts and the heart of this tournament, had reached the end of their journey.
However, reaching the World Cup final often requires breaking a few hearts along the way. On a crisp Sydney night, England took a step closer to their elusive goal. Their 3-1 victory was not without flaws or drama, but it showcased the calm and efficiency instilled by their brilliant Dutch coach, Sarina Wiegman, who has led the team to the best tournament performances in the history of English women’s football.
Now, the phony war, the fake Ashes rivalry, and the tiresome cricket jokes can be put aside. The reigning European champions are just one game away from becoming world champions. The difference between the two teams was evident. Australia, fueled by national fervor and led by the world’s greatest striker, Sam Kerr, lacked composure in crucial moments. On the other hand, England remained calm and clinical, relishing their role as spoilers and assassins. While having the support of a capacity crowd and history on their side is desirable, having a solid defense is perhaps more important.
As Alessia Russo scored England’s third goal in the 86th minute, the noise that had filled Stadium Australia fell silent. Matildas fever, the contagious enthusiasm that had swept the nation, finally met its antidote. The national holiday promised by the prime minister had to be canceled. However, the fact that Australia, a country traditionally focused on rugby and football codes, has embraced women’s football signifies a profound change.
For England, these battles have already been fought and won. The final against Spain will be another chapter in their story of growth and evolution, solidifying their status as one of the most beloved sporting teams. The game itself will be vastly different, with Spain’s technical skill and passing patterns posing a new challenge. England will have to adapt and endure, thriving on their ability to weather tough spells and respond effectively.
One could see this resilience in action after Kerr’s equalizing goal. England had been the better team, taking the lead and limiting Australia’s threats through tactical fouls. Kerr, making her first start in the tournament, faced rough tackles from England players. Yet, her goal did not rattle the Lionesses. They adjusted and carried on, with Wiegman maintaining her stoic expression on the sidelines.
Australia, despite their ecstasy, began to tire emotionally and physically. Lauren Hemp exploited Ellie Carpenter’s hesitation and scored a goal from a tight angle, sealing England’s victory. Hemp, considered one of the country’s brightest prospects, proved her worth in this tournament by demonstrating bravery and creativity on the ball.
Even in the dying minutes, there were brief moments where Australia had opportunities. However, missed headers and a failed volley by Kerr highlighted the fact that the game was beyond their grasp. The crowd became restless as England tactfully ran down the clock, delaying goalkicks and shielding the ball in the corner. The young footballing public of Australia has yet to fully grasp the harsh realities and nuances of the game.
England, on the other hand, has learned these lessons through tough experiences. In 2015, they were denied a spot in the final due to a 92nd-minute own goal. Four years later, they were held off by the USA. However, with significant investment and elite coaching, they have learned to navigate the unpredictable nature of tournament football, knowing when to breathe life into a game and when to kill it. They have come to realize that the true celebration begins at the end.
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