England star Ella Toone has warned that the Lionesses are steeling themselves for an Australian side driven by revenge when the two footballing giants renew their rivalry this week.
The Manchester United midfielder, who scored the opening goal in England's epic 3-1 World Cup semi-final victory over the Matildas in 2023, revealed that the England camp is fully aware they'll face a team with "unfinished business" when they meet in an international friendly.
World Cup Ghosts Loom Large
"We know they'll be coming for revenge," Toone stated emphatically. "That World Cup semi-final will definitely be in the back of their minds. We ended their dream on home soil, and that's something that stays with you."
The memorable encounter at Stadium Australia saw Toone's spectacular strike open the scoring before Sam Kerr's thunderous equaliser, only for England to secure their final place through goals from Lauren Hemp and Alessia Russo.
A Different Challenge Awaits
Toone emphasised that despite England's previous victory, this match presents a completely different challenge. "Football doesn't work like that - what happened before doesn't matter now. We have to be ready for their best because we know what they're capable of."
The 25-year-old acknowledged the electric atmosphere created by Australian fans during the World Cup, describing it as "incredible" while noting that playing without that overwhelming home support might change the dynamic of the contest.
New Era Under New Management
Both teams have undergone significant changes since their World Cup showdown, with England now led by interim manager Hege Riise following Sarina Wiegman's departure. Toone praised the Norwegian's impact, saying: "Hege has been brilliant. She's brought new ideas and everyone's responding really well to her methods."
The match represents more than just a friendly for both nations, serving as crucial preparation for upcoming competitive fixtures and allowing new players to stake their claim for regular starting positions.
"We know it's going to be tough," Toone concluded. "But these are the games you want to play in - against the best teams, with that extra edge. We'll be ready."
