Australia win epic penalty shootout to reach Women's World Cup semis

In an exhilarating clash, the Australian team secured their first-ever semi-final berth in the FIFA Women's World Cup, edging out France 7-6 in a nail-biting penalty shootout following a tense 0-0 draw after extra-time.

Contrary to the anticipated swift start from the hosts, it was France that seized command of the match, asserting early pressure through set pieces. Maelle Lakrar's astonishing miss after 11 minutes emerged as a standout contender for the tournament's most glaring blunder. She somehow directed the ball over the crossbar from a mere yard away.

Australia battled to establish themselves as an offensive force throughout the game. Nevertheless, a golden opportunity materialized before the half-time break for them to seize the lead. Mary Fowler found herself in a prime position to score following a defensive mix-up. Yet, France's Elisa De Almeida valiantly intervened, delivering a heroic goal-line clearance that salvaged the situation for Les Bleus.

The tide turned in Australia's favour during the second half, with Fowler compelling a remarkable save from Pauline Peyraud-Magnin. The entry of Sam Kerr just prior to the hour mark breathed fresh energy into the crowd, though the French backline managed to thwart the resurgence.

As normal time wound down, both teams adopted a cautious approach, avoiding unnecessary risks and inevitably pushing the match into extra-time.

The cautious play persisted into the added period. Substitute Cortnee Vine came agonizingly close to making an immediate impact with clever positioning, yet her effort narrowly missed the mark, finding the side netting near the post.

As extra-time drew to a close, neither side had managed to break the deadlock, necessitating a dramatic penalty shootout. In a daring move, France swapped goalkeepers, bringing Solene Durand on for Peyraud-Magnin.

Following an intense showdown of spot kicks that extended to sudden death and a gripping ten rounds, France's Vicki Becho faltered, opening the door for Cortnee Vine to etch her name in history. With composure under pressure, Vine calmly slotted the ball into the net, propelling Australia into the semi-finals.

The hosts now await the outcome of the England vs Colombia encounter to ascertain their next formidable opponent in this electrifying FIFA Women's World Cup journey.

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