Maidstone-born Alessia Russo says playing in World Cup Final against Spain in Sydney will be a dream come true

Alessia Russo believes the enormity of playing in the World Cup Final will hit her just minutes before kick-off.

Maidstone-born Russo will lead the England attack against Spain in Sydney on Sunday (kick-off 11am).

She gave a relaxed press conference on Friday and admitted that she’ll reflect on what has been achieved after the event.

"This is the biggest game, the one you dream about, the one that means the most,” said Russo.

“I feel like it'll hit when we're in the tunnel and ready to walk out.

“It's an incredible occasion, it's been an unbelievable tournament. This is it, it's exactly where we want to be and we can't wait.

“All I want to do is go out and put in a performance we're proud of, and obviously win. We started this tournament wanting to win seven games and that’s still the message. This is the last one to go and we’re all really locked in.

“It's been an incredible year but as a player you always focus on what's next and never really get to enjoy the moment. I'm sure I will when I look back and am old and grey but now it’s about what’s coming up and what’s there to achieve.

“We’re all aware it’s the World Cup Final and there’s that on the line but as soon as you cross the white line and the first whistle goes, it’s just a normal game.

“That’s what we love to do, that’s what we want to do be doing. It’s 11 v 11 and a game we’ve got to win.

“As soon as we step out onto the pitch, we know our job and we know what we’ve got to do. Of course, we’re aware it’s a World Cup final but we’re just going to play our game.”

Russo admitted she used to play ‘World Cup’ with her friends and brothers growing up so this really is a dream come true.

Born and bred in Maidstone, Russo attended East Farleigh Primary School and St