England’s Lionesses through to their first World Cup final after win over hosts Australia

England’s Lionesses have reached the final of the Women’s World Cup after beating Australia 3-1 in a thrilling semi-final.

The European champions took on the Matildas at Sydney’s sold-out Stadium Australia, where the majority of the 75,000 in attendance were backing the tournament co-hosts.

England v Australia – live updates: Lionesses’ stunning win breaks Aussie hearts

The tense showdown brought early chances at both ends, but England struck the first blow with a magnificent strike from Ella Toone silencing the crowd and giving the Lionesses a 1-0 lead at half-time.

Fan parks across London erupted as Toone’s strike hit the back of the net.

Toone’s goal was the first Australia had conceded in five hours and 54 minutes – after losing 3-2 to Nigeria in the group stages, the Matildas went on to keep three clean sheets.

Australia needed some magic to keep their World Cup hopes alive – and found it in striker Sam Kerr, who picked up the ball on the half-way line and hit home from 25 yards out to level the match.

But England weren’t fazed and did what they had to do to book themselves a place in the global showpiece with a second goal – this time from Lauren Hemp, who fired the ball past Australia’s keeper Mackenzie Arnold 20 minutes from time.

Alessia Russo wrapped up proceedings with a goal in the 86th minute.

The Lionesses will play Spain in the final on Sunday in Sydney, with kick-off at 11am.

Sweden will face Australia in the third-place play-off on Saturday in Brisbane at 9am.