August 13, 2023
2 mins read

Matildas make magical run to semifinals in FIFA Women’s World Cup

Fowler was excellent throughout but had a luckless night in front of the goal, with Peyraud-Magnin producing a couple of smart stops to keep the youngster out…reports Asian Lite News

Courtney Vine scored the decisive penalty as hosts Australia made history in the FIFA Women’s World Cup on Saturday by storming into their maiden semifinals, prevailing over France via penalties in a quarterfinal clash here.

After holding the European giants goalless in regulation time, the Matildas came out victorious 7-6 in the penalty shoot-out.

Vine converted the decisive penalty in a heart-stopping shootout and clinched a tense and hard-earned victory, thus making the Matildas the first Aussie team, male or female to reach the semifinals of a FIFA World Cup.

Though they were second-best for the bulk of the match, France began brightly and should have moved in front inside 13 minutes, but Maelle Lakrar failed from inside the six-yard box, scooping the ball over from the closest of ranges.

Les Bleues had a miraculous escape late in the first half when Australia’s Mary Fowler fired towards an apparently open goal with goalkeeper Pauline Peyraud-Magnin stranded and out of position. Elisa de Almeida came to France’s rescue, though, with a magnificent goal-line clearance, diverting the ball behind for a corner.

Fowler was excellent throughout but had a luckless night in front of the goal, with Peyraud-Magnin producing a couple of smart stops to keep the youngster out.

Australia turned to the seasoned Sam Kerr in search of a goal ten minutes into the second half and the Matildas skipper nearly made an immediate impact, setting up Hayley Raso for a curling left-foot shot that the France keeper kept out.

The hosts had their hearts in their mouths in extra time when Alanna Kennedy headed a corner into her own net. But the French celebrations were quickly curtailed as referee Maria Carvajal whistled immediately, having spotted a Wendie Renard shirt-tug while the ball was in the air.

After a wonder save from Australia Mackenzie Arnold to deny Vicki Becho, the match went into penalties.

Herve Renard had introduced Solene Durand seconds beforehand and the substitute keeper, making her first competitive start, did step up with impressive saves from Steph Catley and Clare Hunt.

But Arnold also produced some heroics of her own, and when Vicki Becho hit the post, Vine was able to step up and side-foot the Matildas into the last four and spark wild celebrations on the pitch and in the stands.

In the semifinals, Australia will take on the winner of the match between England and Colombia.

ALSO READ-‘Lose even to Kenya but not to Pakistan’

Previous Story

India’s hockey heroes Stage thrilling comeback

Next Story

Japan-Australia defence cooperation pact to take effect

Latest from Europe

Zelenskyy: India ‘mostly with us’

President Zelenskyy hails India as “mostly” aligned with Ukraine, praises Trump’s backing, and warns UNGA of AI-driven warfare risks, urging global rules to avert catastrophic arms races….reports Asian Lite News Ukrainian President

India, France Hold Nuclear Talks

The meeting, held on Monday, reviewed progress in bilateral civil nuclear cooperation and explored avenues to deepen the strategic partnership…reports Asian Lite News India and France convened the second meeting of their

India, France Unite Against Terror

The two sides also focused on challenges posed by radicalisation and extremism, especially online…reports Asian Lite News India and France reiterated their strong commitment to fighting terrorism in all its forms during

Jaishankar Pushes Ukraine Truce

Reaffirming its support for an end to the conflict in Ukraine, India expressed hope that all parties would move ahead constructively towards establishing lasting peace…reports Asian Lite News External Affairs Minister S.

Modi-Meloni talks reinforce strategic ties

Modi and Meloni reaffirmed India–Italy Strategic Partnership, backed EU trade talks, supported IMEEEC connectivity, and called for peaceful resolution of Ukraine war, highlighting growing diplomatic and personal rapport….reports Asian Lite News Prime
Go toTop

Don't Miss

Gianni Infantino re-elected as FIFA president

As the only candidate for the position, 52-year-old Infantino will

Lal’s musical tribute to FIFA World Cup

Sources say that Mohanlal will be in Qatar for the