Bright says England thrive in big moments as Australia blockbuster looms in Women's World Cup semis

SYDNEY: Captain Millie Bright says England thrive in big games and will not be intimidated by the Sydney crowd when they face Australia in their Women's World Cup semi-final on Wednesday (Aug 16).

England have been in this position before, in 2015 and 2019, losing 2-1 on both occasions, with a third-place finish their best World Cup so far.

But coach Sarina Wiegman led them to the European title last year on home soil and Bright said they were well prepared to handle another blockbuster game in front of an expected 75,000 partisan fans at Stadium Australia.

"We are just super-excited to play in front of a really intense full stadium. That's what we want, that's what we expect now," the 29-year-old defender said on Tuesday.

"At these big tournaments, especially a semi-final, we thrive in these moments. We know as an England team there's always pressure and it's something we embrace and deal with.

"I think we've experienced moments like this, a tense environment, big stadiums, big crowds, and we do thrive in those moments, it gives us energy," she added.

"But ultimately it's about sticking to the task and executing the game plans very well."

England are six places above Australia at four in the FIFA rankings and this will be the home side's first World Cup semi-final.

But contrary to what her opposite number Tony Gustavsson said, Wiegman does not believe her team are favourites, especially with the home support roaring the Matildas on.

"I don't think they are underdogs," she said. "They are playing at home, the stadium will be really full.

"We are two teams who I think have grown into the tournament so I think it's going to be very tight and very, very competitive.

"We approach the game as any other game and we expect a very strong