England Women 2 – 1 Colombia Women

Alessia Russo’s second half goal saw England beat Colombia 2-1 in the Women’s World Cup quarter-finals, setting up a semi-final showdown with Australia.

Many wondered how a mentally and physically draining last-16 win against Nigeria would affect the Lionesses, but it was a much-improved performance in Sydney.

However, England did go behind in the 44th minute as Leicy Santos’ stunning effort saw Mary Earps beaten for only the second time in the tournament.

But a calamitous error from Colombia goalkeeper Catalina Perez allowed Lauren Hemp to poke home the equaliser with the last kick of the half.

It was another individual error at the back that allowed Russo (63) through to score England’s winner.

England clung on to their lead as Colombia pressed for their own equaliser in the final half hour, but managed to see the game out and book a semi-final meeting with co-hosts Australia on Wednesday – the only team to have beaten the Lionesses under Sarina Wiegman.

More to follow…

What’s next?

England will place Australia in the semi-finals of the Women’s World Cup. The game will be played on Wednesday August 16 with kick-off at 11am.

What is the schedule?

The round of 16 concluded on Tuesday ahead of the quarter-finals, which will be held in Wellington, Auckland, Brisbane and Sydney, between August 11 and 12.

The first semi-final will then be played on August 15 in Auckland, with the other semi-final taking place on August 16 at the Accor Stadium in Sydney, which will then host the final on August 20.

A third-place play-off will be played the day before the final on August 19 in Brisbane.