By Harry Awurumibe, Editor, Abuja Bureau
England came back from a goal down to beat tough Colombia 2-1 for a place in the 2023 Women’s World Cup semi-finals at Stadium Australia in Sydney.
Goals provided by Lauren Hemp in 45’+6′ and Alessia Russo in 63′ cancelled out Colombia’s Leicy Santos in 44′ to ensure England won the encounter as the quarter-final round of the ongoing competition was concluded on Saturday.
England will now face tournament co-host Australia in a heavyweight semifinal matchup next Wednesday.
By this result the Lionesses won their third Women’s World Cup quarter-final in a row today when they face South American stars Colombia in Sydney. England may be the favourites, but this could well prove a very tricky test for the European champions.
A penalty shootout was required for Sarina Wiegman’s side in the last-16 as they overcome a strong Nigeria side, a game which saw star attacker Lauren James sent off for an igmonious stamp on her opponent.
The Chelsea youngster was suspended today and Ella Toone named as her replacement in the England XI.
Usually, at this stage of the game, the team chasing the game are applying plenty of pressure to find an equaliser and Colombia did just that on the day.
But, England defended well and looked after the ball effectively when they get it to grind out the victory they wanted.
Elsewhere, Spain will take on Sweden on Tuesday, August 15 in Auckland, New Zealand as the winner will meet the second semi-final tie between Australia and England in the final in Australia on August 20, 2023.
