Massive congratulations – Harry Kane lauds Lionesses after win over Australia
Alessia Russo celebrates with Lauren Hemp during England’s 3-1 win over Australia (Isabel Infantes/PA)
Harry Kane and the Prince of Wales led the congratulations after England swept aside co-hosts Australia 3-1 to reach their first World Cup final.
The Lionesses roared past the Matildas in front of a 75,784-strong crowd thanks to second-half strikes from Lauren Hemp and Alessia Russo.
Ella Toone had fired England into the lead in the first half, but Sam Kerr produced a thunderous equaliser before Hemp and Russo helped Sarina Wiegman’s side end their run of World Cup last-four exits.
Kane, England’s men’s record goal-scorer, was able to provide instant reaction during an interview with Sky Sports, saying: “Massive congratulations to the Lionesses.
“It sounds like a heck of a game and massive congratulations. We’re all behind them and hopefully they can do it in the final.”
Mead, player of the tournament when England won the European Championships last summer but who missed this tournament through injury, wrote on Twitter: “World Cup Final baby! Get in Lionesses.”
Former England defender Gary Neville said: “An incredible achievement by the Lionesses. One more to go.”
The prince tweeted his best wishes to the Lionesses for the final and offered his commiserations to Australia.
“What a phenomenal performance from the Lionesses – on to the final,” he said.
“Commiserations to The Matildas, you’ve played brilliantly and been fantastic co-hosts of this World Cup.”
Gary Lineker, who won the Golden Boot for England at the 1986 World Cup, added: “Absolutely superb performance.
“A World Cup final. A World Cup final at football. It’s been a while. What a wonderful achievement.”
Retired Euros winner Ellen White expressed her emotions
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