(Football News) In a gripping quarter-final match that concluded in a 0-0 draw after extra time, co-hosts Australia triumphed over France 7-6 in a penalty shootout, securing their first-ever Women’s World Cup semi-final berth.
During the intense shootout, Australia’s goalkeeper Mackenzie Arnold saved three French penalties and had one penalty shot of her own miss the mark. The climactic moment came when Cortnee Vine confidently converted the decisive spot-kick, propelling Australia into the semi-finals where they will face either England or Colombia.
France, aiming for their second semi-final appearance after 2011, dominated the first half and extra time, and they will regret squandering several scoring opportunities as they bid farewell to the tournament.
Earlier in the match, Australian forward Mary Fowler missed several opportunities, with one attempt being brilliantly thwarted by an exceptional block from Elisa de Almeida. Additionally, captain Sam Kerr, who entered the game as a substitute in the 55th minute, struggled to create a clear scoring opportunity.
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