Co-hosts Australia advanced to the Women’s World Cup semi-finals for the first time, defeating France in a thrilling penalty shootout at Brisbane Stadium.
After a goalless 120 minutes, the Matildas won 7-6 in a shootout that defied belief with its drama and twists.
Cortnee Vine converted the game-winning penalty kick for the co-hosts after France’s Vicki Becho hit the post.
Goalkeeper Mackenzie Arnold made four stops in the shootout, including two from Kenza Dali, who had stepped off the line for the first stop, prompting a retake.
Arnold herself had the opportunity to score the winning penalty as Australia’s fifth taker after Eve Perisset’s save, but she hit the post as almost 50,000 fans inside the stadium experienced every feeling conceivable.
The hosts, though, march on, reaching their first Women’s World Cup semi-final.
They will face either England or Colombia on August 16 at 11 a.m. BST at Sydney’s Stadium Australia.
