Unbelievable Drama Unfolds: Australia Stun France in Epic Penalty Shootout to Secure Semifinal Spot
Australia makes history by defeating France in a thrilling penalty shootout, securing their spot in the Women's World Cup semi-finals for the first time ever An intense quarter-final ended goalless, leading to a nail-biting finish that saw the co-hosts emerge victorious with a 7-6 win on penalties What's next? Check out the schedule for the upcoming matches
Australia defeated France 7-6 in a thrilling penalty shootout to secure their spot in the semi-finals of the Women's World Cup. This marks the first time that Australia has reached this stage of the tournament. Despite a goalless quarter-final, Australia's goalkeeper Mackenzie Arnold emerged as the hero, saving three French penalties and even missing one of her own in the dramatic shootout. Ultimately, it was Cortnee Vine who stepped up and confidently converted the decisive spot-kick, propelling Australia into a highly anticipated semi-final clash against England, who also emerged victorious in their match against Colombia.
The substitute winger raced back towards the centre circle to celebrate with her team mates as the stadium and fan zones around the country exploded in delight.
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Spain will face off against Sweden on Tuesday in Auckland to compete for the final spot.
Despite dominating the first half and extra time, France, aiming to make their second semifinal appearance since 2011, will be disappointed by their missed chances as they return home.
Australia's Mary Fowler missed numerous opportunities, including one that was blocked by a remarkable save from Elisa de Almeida. Additionally, Captain Sam Kerr was unable to take a clear shot on goal when she was introduced as a substitute in the 55th minute. France, on the other hand, controlled possession for a major part of the match and had the advantage in the initial stages, with Maelle Lakrar squandering a golden chance to give Les Bleues the lead from a corner in the 12th minute.
Australia's only early chances came against the run of play from set-pieces but Fowler had as many as six as the game opened up around half-time.
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France were unable to breach Australia's defences in 120 minutes of football
Entering the 55th minute to a thunderous ovation, Kerr made an immediate impact. Her first offensive move created an opportunity for Hayley Raso, who unleashed a powerful long-range shot that France's starting goalkeeper, Pauline Peyraud-Magnin, skillfully tipped over the crossbar.
Despite the pressure exerted by Australia's captain, France managed to endure the onslaught. Additionally, their 19-year-old substitute, Becho, quickly became a threat on the offensive front.
The last 15 minutes of normal time was a tense but ragged affair with half chances at both ends, a theme reprised in the first half of extra-time.
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Australia's goalkeeper Mackenzie Arnold had a dramatic shootout - missing a penalty and saving three, including one retaken effort
In the 100th minute, Australia's Alanna Kennedy unintentionally scored an own goal as she headed the ball into her own net. However, France captain Wendy Renard was penalized for a foul on Caitlin Foord. During the second period, France dominated the game, and in the 107th minute, Becho took a powerful shot from the edge of the box, but goalkeeper Arnold made a commendable save.
What's next?
Australia's heroine continued to showcase her skills in the shootout, where she impressively denied Kenza Dali's penalties not once, but twice. However, her initial save was disallowed due to her slight movement off the line before the shot was taken.Australia will face off against England in the semi-finals of the Women's World Cup. Mark your calendars for Wednesday, August 16, and get ready for the thrilling kick-off set for 11am.
