Australia’s Women’s National Football Team put up a valiant effort in the 2019 FIFA Women’s World Cup Semi-Final, but ultimately fell to England in a heartbreaking 2-1 loss. Despite a goal from Sam Kerr, the Matildas were unable to overcome the Lionesses and will now have to settle for a third-place finish.
The match began with England dominating possession and creating several chances, but it was Australia who got on the board first. In the 11th minute, Sam Kerr scored off of a brilliant pass from Elise Kellond-Knight to give the Matildas a 1-0 lead. The goal was Kerr’s sixth of the tournament, making her the joint-top scorer in the competition.
Unfortunately, England would respond with two goals of their own in the second half. The first came in the 67th minute when Ellen White finished off a well-worked team move to equalize for the Lionesses. Then, in the 84th minute, White scored again to give England the lead. Australia pushed hard for an equalizer in the closing minutes, but they were unable to find one and England held on for the win.
The loss was a bitter pill to swallow for the Matildas, who had been one of the most impressive teams in the tournament. Despite the disappointment, Australia can still be proud of their performance in France. They have shown that they are capable of competing with the best teams in the world and they will be looking to build on this success in future tournaments.
For now, though, all eyes will be on England as they prepare to take on the United States in the Women’s World Cup Final. It promises to be an exciting match and one that will decide who will be crowned champions of the world.
