With Lauren James suspended, Ella Toone is chosen for the crucial World Cup quarter-final. The Lionesses have their sights set on the semifinals, hoping to join hosts Australia in the next stage.

In a gripping and intense match that had fans on the edge of their seats, the Lionesses triumphed over Colombia with a 2-1 victory, earning themselves a coveted spot in the semifinals of the Women’s World Cup. The game showcased the resilience and determination of the England team as they overcame formidable challenges posed by their opponents.

The @Lionesses advance to their third consecutive #FIFAWWC Semi-Final! 👏🏴󠁧󠁢󠁥󠁮󠁧󠁿
— FIFA Women's World Cup (@FIFAWWC) August 12, 2023

Entering the second half, England holds a 1-1 scoreline, with the goal of securing their place in the Women’s World Cup semi-final.

Just moments before the conclusion of the first half, Santos found the net against Mary Earps, putting England behind. However, Lauren Hemp managed to even the score just seconds before halftime.

Ella Toone started for England in lieu of the suspended Lauren James, with Alessia Russo leading the attack. Yet, Toone’s impact has been limited so far, given the physical nature of the Colombian team.

Australia and France engaged in extra time, with the Matildas prevailing 7-6 in a penalty shootout to earn their semi-final spot.

The involvement of Kerr in Australia’s pivotal quarter-final against France remains uncertain. Despite this uncertainty, Australian fans hold hope for her triumphant return against a formidable opponent who seems to have found their stride after a shaky start. Kadidiatou Diani and Eugénie Le Sommer are identified as prominent threats for France.

Meanwhile, the Lionesses are bracing to encounter Colombia in the final quarter-final match of the day. Following their narrow advancement past Nigeria through a dramatic penalty shootout, England must elevate their performance against Colombia, especially given Lauren James’ absence.

The suspension of Lauren James for two matches creates a notable creative void in Sarina Wiegman’s squad. The strategies the Dutch manager and striker Alessia Russo adopt to address this challenge remain undisclosed, although both appear composed in anticipation of Saturday’s confrontation.

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