Australia Advances to Semifinals in Historic Shootout
Australia is one step closer to becoming the first nation this century to win the FIFA Women’s World Cup on home soil. After a scoreless tie in Brisbane, the Matildas beat France in an extended 10-round penalty shootout to advance to the semifinals at Australia-New Zealand 2023, making it the longest shootout in World Cup history for both women’s and men’s games.
Australia will face England in the semis on Wednesday following their come-from-behind win over Colombia. The match will be broadcasted on FOX at 6 a.m. ET.
The game’s play of the day came before halftime when Australia had a prime opportunity to score. However, France defender Élisa De Almeida raced back to cover the goal and blocked the forward’s shot, keeping the game scoreless.
France also had a chance to clinch victory in the first half of extra time, but Australian goalkeeper Mackenzie Arnold made a crucial save to keep her team in the contest.
The margin of victory for Australia was incredibly thin. The shootout ended with a 7-6 score, while France had more shots on goal and overall possession. Despite the lack of goals, the match was played with incredible intensity and showcased the quality of women’s soccer.
The atmosphere in the packed 52,000-seat Brisbane Stadium was electric, and both teams displayed nerves but fought hard throughout the 120-minute-plus match.
What’s Next for Australia and France?
Australia’s win sets up an exciting encounter with England in Sydney, with a spot in the championship match on the line. The entire country is rallying behind the Matildas.
For France, it is a bitter disappointment after coming so close to victory. However, they will have another opportunity to win a major title next summer when they host the 2024 Summer Olympics in Paris.
Doug McIntyre is a soccer writer for FOX Sports and has extensive experience covering both men’s and women’s national teams at FIFA World Cups. You can follow him on Twitter at @ByDougMcIntyre.