England’s Lionesses danced in the dressing room as they celebrated reaching their first ever Women’s World Cup final with a 3-1 win over hosts Australia.
The players were pictured dancing on seats and singing following their historic semi-final victory to set up a clash against Spain in Sydney this weekend.
England stars also celebrated on social media, with goalkeeper Mary Earps posting a picture of the team along with the caption: “Special, special night. We’re World Cup finalists.”
England reach World Cup final – latest: King sends message to Lionesses
Goalscorers Ella Toone and Alessia Russo also posted on Instagram with the same caption: “Off to the World Cup final!”.
Defender Lucy Bronze, meanwhile, took to X, formerly known as Twitter, to share pictures of the celebrations, with the caption: “We are in the World Cup final.”
Former England players and fans also celebrated the historic win, with former Lioness, Jill Scott, writing on social media: “This team are just everything!
“Inspirational, humble, incredible humans. One more to go – everyone is behind you!”
Former England Men’s striker Ian Wright, who was at the game, also shared a video of himself draped in an England flag hugging fans.
Fans outside Sydney’s Stadium Australia chanted “Football’s Coming Home” – a line from the 1996 World Cup song Three Lions – after the win.
One woman, dressed in a lion’s head, told Sky News: “It’s coming home, we won. Oh my god, it’s amazing.”
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Back at home, fans packed out bars, including Box Park in Croydon, where they cheered on the Lionesses from across the other side of the world.
Meanwhile, Countdown stars Rachel Riley and Susie Dent celebrated the win with five consonants and four vowels.
Dancing to Lioness by HANA R, the pair cheered on the squad at the show’s studio in Greater Manchester.
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The King also sent his “warmest congratulations” to the Lionesses on their win, and wished them well for their game against Spain on Sunday.
“My wife and I join all our family in sending the mighty Lionesses our warmest congratulations on reaching the final of the World Cup, and in sharing our very best wishes for Sunday’s match,” he said.
He also recognised the team as an “inspiration” and said the UK and Australia had been connected in “pride, admiration and respect”.
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“While your victory may have cost the magnificent Matildas their chance for the greatest prize in the game, both teams have been an inspiration on and off the pitch – and, for that, both nations are united in pride, admiration and respect,” he added.
Ahead of the match, The Queen’s Guard had played a medley of anthems such as “Sweet Caroline” – often played after England wins – and “Waltzing Matilda” – described as Australia’s “unofficial anthem” – outside Buckingham Palace.
England conquered hosts Australia 3-1 thanks to goals from Ella Toone, Lauren Hemp and Alessia Russo.
They will face Spain, who beat Sweden 2-1 in their semi-final, on Sunday, with kick-off at 11am UK time.
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