August 12, (THEWILL) – Australia advanced to the Women’s World Cup semifinals for the first time after a dramatic 7-6 penalty shootout win over France, following a 0-0 draw through 120 minutes of play.
The quarterfinal match started tensely with France controlling possession and creating early chances, including a shot from Kadidiatou Diani that narrowly missed. But Australia grew into the game and had their own opportunity when Mary Fowler’s shot was blocked by Elisa De Almeida.
The second half saw the entrance of Australian star, Sam Kerr, energising both the team and the 49,000 fans in attendance. Fowler had another chance saved by French goalkeeper, Pauline Peyraud-Magnin, as Australia pushed for a winner. France nearly took the lead on an own goal by Alanna Kennedy, rightly disallowed for a shirt pull.
With the sides still locked at 0-0 after regulation and extra time, penalties were required to decide who advanced. It was a dramatic shootout, featuring misses, saves, VAR reviews and clutch penalties. Australian keeper, Mackenzie Arnold, redeemed herself after an earlier miss to make critical stops during the shootout. Cortnee Vine calmly converted the winning penalty to clinch the 7-6 shootout victory.
The win propels Australia to the semifinals for the first time ever. They will face either England or Colombia. It was a heartbreaking defeat for France, who had hoped to capture their first World Cup title after a strong display so far. But Australia emerged victorious in a classic, hard-fought match, keeping their hopes of a World Cup run on home ground.
About the Author
Jude Obafemi is a versatile senior Correspondent at THEWILL Newspapers, excelling in sourcing, researching, and delivering sports news stories for both print and digital publications.
