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.
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
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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.
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
Subs not used: Roebuck, Hampton, Charles, Morgan, Wubben-Moy, Zelem, Coombs, Nobbs, Robinson.
