Australia advanced to the semifinals of the FIFA Women’s World Cup for the first time after a nail-biting penalty shootout victory over France.
On Saturday in Brisbane, the quarterfinal went into extra time and still ended in a scoreless draw as both teams managed to block multiple good chances on goal in a nail-biting seesaw.
And it was Australian goalkeeper Mackenzie Arnold who came through in the clutch, blocking two additional shots in addition to saving France’s initial shot in the shootout to help the tournament’s hosts.
Steph Catley’s attempt to tie it up was subsequently blocked by French goalie Solene Durand, who had been added in the final seconds of stoppage time expressly for the shootout.
Before Arnold moved up to take the fifth shot and likewise missed, it appeared that Australia had won when Eve Perisset shanked her kick into the post.
In her comments, former Matilda Amy Chapman stated, “I feel a little sick, to be honest.”
The sides traded goals until Arnold stopped France’s sixth attempt, but VAR reversed it as she crossed the line.
The Matildas subsequently gained the advantage after Arnold remarkably made her second save in as many tries.
Once more, it appeared that Australia would triumph when Durand blocked Clare Hunt’s stroke.
Vicki Becho of France added another twist when her attempt hit the post, and Cortnee Vine this time slotted her attempt to secure the victory.
It was the Women’s World Cup’s longest shootout ever.
Player of the match was awarded to Arnold, and coach Tony Gustavsson struggled to communicate over the clamor of the 49,000-person crowd in Brisbane.
“I’m so very proud of this squad and the bravery they displayed tonight. Amazing,” Gustavsson said to Optus Sport.
“I’m clearly emotional right now.
Yes, I have won medals, but I reminded the team before the game that winning is more important than wearing a medal around your neck. The heart that pounded tonight in this squad and in this nation (was) tremendous. It’s about the heart throbbing on the back side of it.
Gustavsson had nothing but love for his goalie Arnold, who has become the talk of the country as a result of her valiant efforts during regulation and the shootout.
She was fantastic throughout the entire game and the penalty shootout, he remarked, praising her bravery and composure.
“But she should also return from that miss when she can be the national hero, stay in the game, and then return and transform the game. I’m overjoyed for her.
