In a display of great character and determination, England’s Lionesses overcame a setback to defeat Colombia 2-1 in a thrilling Women’s World Cup (WWC) quarter-final match. The victory marks their third consecutive appearance in the semifinals of the prestigious tournament. Up next, the Lionesses will face tournament co-hosts Australia in what promises to be an intense clash.
FIFA Women’s World Cup 2023 Quarter-Final Preview: Full Schedule
Following Australia’s dramatic penalty shootout victory over France, all eyes turned to the last quarter-final match in Sydney, where Colombia faced England. The game saw an early substitution for Colombia due to an injury to Carolina Arias in a chaotic goalmouth scramble. Despite missing key player Lauren James, who was serving a two-match suspension, England began the match with determination.
Alessia Russo, Arsenal’s summer signing, sent a well-directed header toward goal, only to be stopped by Catalina Pérez. Rachel Daly also had two close attempts in quick succession. Despite England’s early dominance, it was Colombia who shocked the Lionesses by taking the lead in the 45th minute. Leicy Santos’ looping shot from the right flank sailed over Mary Earps, who was unable to prevent the ball from finding the net.
In their first-ever WWC quarter-final, Colombia appeared poised to maintain their lead into halftime. However, a crucial error by Pérez allowed Lauren Hemp to capitalize and score from close range, equalizing for England just before the break.
The second half witnessed England asserting control over possession and patiently seeking opportunities. Their perseverance paid off when Alessia Russo showcased her clinical finishing, maneuvering past her defender before slotting a low shot into the bottom corner to put England in the lead.
Colombia, refusing to bow out quietly, came close to equalizing when Lorena Bedoya’s long-range shot forced Mary Earps to make an impressive fingertip save. England’s defense held firm in the closing stages, securing their place in the semifinals and keeping their dreams of winning the nation’s first WWC trophy alive.
While Colombia departs Sydney with a sense of disappointment, they can reflect on their historic tournament with pride, particularly their dramatic group-stage victory over Euro 2022 finalists Germany.
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