Turns out, it was less of a rivalry after all. Instead, it was an exercise in perfect patience from England, who swatted aside the co-hosts Australia to book a place in a first World Cup final, at the third time of asking. The European champions will return here to face Spain on Sunday.
A goal from a resurgent Ella Toone was cancelled out by the talismanic Sam Kerr but Lauren Hemp and Alessia Russo confined the home team to a limp but heroes’ exit.
More Stories
Beyond the apathy: the Manchester City and Chelsea fans off to the Club World Cup
Chelsea halt negotiations with Milan for Mike Maignan after failing to agree fee
Canadian teenager Summer McIntosh sets second swimming world record in three days