England striker Alessia Russo says she will be pinching herself and living out a childhood dream by playing in Sunday’s World Cup final.
Russo has led the line for the Lionesses at every game of this World Cup, scoring three goals in the process.
Now the Arsenal striker is aiming to fire England to their first ever World Cup in the women’s game against Spain on Sunday.
It caps a remarkable rise for Russo, who in the space of 12 months has won the Euros, secured a big move to Arsenal and reached the World Cup final.
“Obviously this is the biggest game, the one you dream about and means the most,” she said.
“I think it will hit when we’re in the tunnel and ready to walk out. It’s an incredible occasion, it’s been an unbelievable tournament and this is it. This is the moment we want to be in. We can’t wait.
“When I was a kid we used to play like being in a World Cup in the garden, so we had to score to stay in.
“To think we’re playing in a World Cup in a couple of days is a special feeling. A real pinch-me moment.
“It’s been an incredible year but we’re always focused on what’s next. You never really kind of get to enjoy the moment. I’m sure I will when I get back and I’m old and grey. Right now it’s about what’s coming up and what’s there to achieve.
“All I want to do is go out, put on a performance to be proud of and obviously to win. We started this tournament wanting to win seven games and this is the message.
“This is the last one to go and we’re really locked in.”
Russo has shone at this World Cup after striking up a formidable partnership with Lauren Hemp.
The pair have clicked as a front-two in attack, with Hemp setting up Russo for England’s third goal in their semi-final win over Australia on Wednesday.
“First and foremost, Lauren and I get on really well,” said Russo. “It’s nice to have that relationship on the pitch.
“I’ve known she was so talented for such a long tine. I’ve played Under-15s, 16s, 17s with her and she’s got so many qualities that are so threatening to the opposition.
“First off, she’s lightning quick. She’s always working hard on the front foot and she’s been very clinical too.
“She trusts herself, she’s feeling confident and for me that’s how you want players to feel. You want them to feel like they are flying and Lauren is definitely putting in performances to back that up.”
Hemp and Russo will lead the line for England on Sunday, and the only debate Wiegman has with her team is who plays behind them.
Ella Toone has started the last two games as the side’s No10 and scored in the Lionesses’ win over Australia on Wednesday.
“The goal was good and a brilliant finish in a crucial game,” said Russo. “But she’s been working hard ever since the tournament began and is contributing in other ways.
“But for your best friend to score in a moment like that, I was over the moon for her. What a finish it was.
“Also sometimes people can be defined by goals and assists but are still working hard in other areas.”
Toone faces competition for her place from Lauren James, who was suspended for two games after stamping on Nigeria forward Michelle Alozie in England’s last-16 win. James is now back and Russo has admitted that is a huge boost for the squad.
“I think everyone in this room knows how impressive she’s been in this tournament,” she said. “I’ve known her since I was 12 at Chelsea.
“She’s a special, talented player. We want everyone fit and available is great.
“Tooney has stepped up as well so we have so many players who can come on and do a job but to have a player as special as LJ back in the squad for the final is great.”
