Australia, co-hosts of the FIFA Women’s World Cup Australia-New Zealand 2023, have reached the quarterfinals for the first time in World Cup history.
The Socceroos defeated France 7-6 on penalties in the quarterfinals at Brisbane Stadium in Brisbane, Australia, on Wednesday (Aug. 12) after the teams played to a 0-0 draw for 120 minutes, including 90 minutes of first-half and 30 minutes of extra time, to advance to the semifinals.
This is the first time the Socceroos have reached the quarterfinals of the tournament since 2007, 2011 and 2015.
The Socceroos, who beat Colombia, will face England on Saturday for a place in the final.
France were looking to reach the last four for the first time in 12 years after the 2011 tournament in Germany, but were unable to overcome the hosts’ barrier and had to settle for the quarterfinals. After their first quarterfinal appearance in 2011, they had to settle for quarterfinals in all three tournaments.
After failing to score in the first 90 minutes and 120 minutes of extra time, the teams went to penalty kicks.
It was a lengthy affair with 10 kickers for both teams. The tie came down to the 10th kicker.
With the score tied at 6-6, France’s Vicky Bechot missed. Courtney Vine’s shot rattled the net cleanly to send Australia through to the quarterfinals.
The Australian fans, who made up a large portion of the nearly 50,000 people who filled the stadium, erupted in unison, celebrating a new chapter in Australian women’s soccer history.
England conceded an early goal in their quarterfinal against Colombia but battled back to win 2-1.
It was England’s third consecutive World Cup quarterfinal.
After falling behind to Lacey Santos in the 44th minute, Lauren Hemp equalized in first-half stoppage time to make it 1-1 at the break. Alessia Russo’s goal 18 minutes into the second half proved to be the game-winner.
England will look to reach their first final. 토토사이트