Co-hosts Australia beat France 7-6 in a thrilling penalty shoot-out to reach the semi-finals of the 2023 FIFA Women’s World Cup for the first time in their history on a night of drama in Brisbane on Saturday following 0-0 draw that stretched the match to 120 minutes.
Amidst the tension, it was Cortnee Vine who emerged as the shining star, who calmly scored the winning penalty. Australia goalkeeper Mackenzie Arnold missed a chance to win the shoot-out when her kick hit the post, but then saved twice to keep her team in the tournament.
Vicki Becho missed France’s 10th penalty, and it was left to Vine to take Australia through by beating France’s substitute goalkeeper Solene Durand, who had been sent on especially for the shoot-out.
For France, the path to the semi-finals was marked by heartbreak, as their efforts ultimately fell short in the unpredictable realm of penalties. The sold-out crowd of 49,461 bore witness to an emotional rollercoaster, where the French Nations ambition of progressing to the semi-finals died.
As the Matildas bask in the glow of this historic victory and look ahead to the semi-finals,they are set to face England who won against Columbia today
