England will face Australia in the semi-finals of the World Cup after Millie Bright led a supreme defensive display against Colombia.
The Lionesses had to come from behind to win this quarter-final in Sydney, with Leicy Santos’ deflected cross looping over Mary Earps in the 44th minute.
England hit back just before half-time through Lauren Hemp and then Alessia Russo put them ahead midway through the second-half.
Colombia pushed hard for an equaliser late on, but Sarina Wiegman’s side held on to setup a showdown with co-hosts Australia.
Simon Collings was in Sydney to see the Lionesses in action...
Mary Earps 5
Beaten by a cross which took a deflection, but she will not be happy with her positioning. Better in the second-half and made a big save late on.
Jess Carter 8
Was tasked with dealing with Linda Caicedo for much of the game and did well. Strong in the tackle and gave England a physical edge.
Millie Bright 8
The captain excelled in the win of Nigeria and she was excellent here, too. Won countless headers and made some vital blocks.
Alex Greenwood 8
Continued her brilliant tournament with another good performance here. So composed on the ball and crucial in England playing out from the back.
They all count... and there won't be many more as important than this one! 🙌
— Lionesses (@Lionesses) August 12, 2023
⚽️ @lauren__hemp pic.twitter.com/6kR3il9MXm
Lucy Bronze 7
Helped Carter keep Caicedo quiet and was strong defensively. Got forward when she could too and had a hand in the Lionesses’ opener.
Georgia Stanway 7
Got the vital assist for England’s winning goal with a lovely pass to Russo. Had struggled in the first half at times but got better as the game went on.
Keira Walsh 6
It doesn’t feel like this 3-4-1-2 formation suits the Barcelona midfielder. Couldn’t get on the ball and dictate play like she usually does.
Rachel Daly 5
Missed a great chance to put England ahead in the first-half with a header at the back-post. Guilty of giving the ball away at times.
Ella Toone 4
Just could not get into the game and looks like a player short on confidence. Handed a big chance after being picked to start, but didn’t take it.
Alessia Russo 8 | Star player
Was under pressure coming into this game and answered her critics with the winning goal. Set up the first one too by chasing a lost cause.
Through on goal. You know the rest!
— Lionesses (@Lionesses) August 12, 2023
💫 @alessiarusso7 pic.twitter.com/98M6mRowl5
Lauren Hemp 7
Looked much more like her usual self. Opened the scoring and played with boundless energy all game. Drove with the ball very well.
Substitutions
Chloe Kelly (Russo 84’) N/A
Beth England (Hemp 90+3’) N/A
