The Arsenal forward was the match-winner in Sydney in a tricky test against a talented South American side who even took the lead in the first half. Leicy Santos’ cross looped over Mary Earps and into the net to put Colombia 1-0 up, but it didn’t last long – Lauren Hemp levelling things up on the stroke of half time.
England carried that momentum into the second half and it was Russo’s arrowed finish just past the hour that proved to be the difference, taking the European champions into the last four where they will face Australia for a place in the 2023 Women’s World Cup final.
Goalkeeper & Defence
Mary Earps (5/10):
Was caught out for Colombia’s goal but made a good save to deny Bedoya in the second half.
Jess Carter (7/10):
Had a tough task coming up against Linda Caicedo so was always going to lose a few battles but she generally did well.
Millie Bright (8/10):
Came up with several important interventions in her own box. Some colossal defending.
Alex Greenwood (8/10):
Oozed class at the back. Did well on the ball and didn’t put a foot wrong in defence, coming up with some huge blocks and tackles.
Midfield
Lucy Bronze (6/10):
Got forward well and played a key role in England’s equaliser. Contributed plenty in defence too.
Keira Walsh (6/10):
Battled well in midfield and played some really nice passes, including the one to Bronze that led to England’s first goal, but wasn’t at her best.
Georgia Stanway (8/10):
Put in a shift defensively, as always, and thrived more in an attacking sense in this game, creating some good chances. Lovely pass to set up Russo’s goal.
Ella Toone (5/10):
Couldn’t quite make things happen on her return to the team.
Rachel Daly (6/10):
Got up the pitch well to take up good positions in the final third but couldn’t finish the chances that fell to her.
Attack
Alessia Russo (8/10):
Worked hard, was positive on the ball and took up good positions. Great run and finish for her goal.
Lauren Hemp (8/10):
Lively from the off, trying to make things happen, and reacted well to finish for England’s equaliser.
Subs & Manager
Chloe Kelly (N/A):
Came on late in the game and couldn’t make an impact as a result.
Beth England (N/A):
Introduced for the final few minutes.
Sarina Wiegman (7/10):
After her decisions were questioned massively in the penalty shootout win over Nigeria, Wiegman didn’t pull out a tactical masterclass here but she kept faith in Russo and it paid off. Job done.
