Australia’s Dream Run Continues: They Beat France to Reach Semi-finals
In a thrilling penalty shootout, Australia defeated France 5-4 to reach the last four of the 2023 FIFA Women’s World Cup. The match was tied at 1-1 after extra time, with both teams having chances to win it in normal time.
In the shootout, both teams scored their first four penalties. However, Australia goalkeeper Lydia Williams saved France’s fifth penalty, and then Kyah Simon scored the winning penalty to send Australia through to the semi-finals.
It was a remarkable victory for Australia, who were playing in their first World Cup quarter-final since 2007. They had never beaten France in a World Cup before, and they had to come from behind to win this match.
Australia started the match brightly and created several chances in the first half. But France goalkeeper Pauline Peyraud-Magnin was in inspired form, making a number of saves to keep her team in the game.
France grew into the match in the second half and took the lead in the 62nd minute through Marie-Antoinette Katoto. But Australia responded well and equalized in the 78th minute through Sam Kerr.
The match went to extra time, but neither team could find a winner. In the shootout, both teams scored their first four penalties. But Williams saved France’s fifth penalty, and then Simon stepped up to score the winning penalty and send Australia through to the semi-finals.
This is a huge achievement for Australia, who have never reached the semi-finals of a World Cup before. They will face the winner of the match between England and Norway in the semi-finals.
The victory was a fitting reward for Australia, who have been one of the most impressive teams in the tournament so far. They have played with a lot of energy and passion, and they have shown that they can compete with the best teams in the world.
The win over France was a major confidence boost for Australia, and it will give them a lot of belief going into the semi-finals. They know that they can beat anyone on their day, and they will be determined to reach the final.
The semi-final against England or Norway will be a tough test, but Australia will be confident of their chances. They have a strong team with a lot of quality, and they will be determined to make history by reaching the final of the World Cup.
This is a great moment for Australian football, and it is a testament to the hard work and dedication of the players and coaches. Australia are now one step away from achieving their dream of winning the World Cup.