USA shatter England's World Cup dreams

The USA marched into the women's World Cup final with a dramatic 2-1 win over England in Lyon yesterday. 

England's Steph Houghton missed a late penalty against the current holders, and her centre-back partner Millie Bright was sent off for a second yellow card shortly after, as the Lionesses bowed out at the semi-final stage for the third consecutive tournament. 

Phil Neville's side had entered the encounter in good form, but soon found themselves trailing to Christen Press' header for the reigning champions. Ellen White levelled the scores, but US striker Alex Morgan restored her side's lead with a thumping header. 

Gutted is an understatement. We gave everything but it wasn’t to be. Small margins make the difference & unfortunately they cost us on the night. I can’t express enough how amazing all your support has been, it really does mean a lot...Thank you ♥️ #Lionesses #FIFAWWC pic.twitter.com/IYRXInj6px

— Nikita Parris (@lilkeets) July 3, 2019

The Lionesses searched for an equaliser after the break and were inches away from finding one when White found the net - only for the strike to be disallowed for being marginally offside after a VAR review . 

After further VAR drama, an 84th minute penalty was awarded England's way for a trip on White, but Houghton's tame effort was kept out by US keeper Alyssa Naeher. 

The wait for a senior England side to make their first World Cup final since 1966 goes on, but Neville afterwards expressed his pride at his side's performance. 

"I've told them no tears tonight," said Neville. "I'm proud. They have touched the hearts of the nation.

"I couldn't ask for more. We had the time of our lives."

The USA will now face either Sweden or European Champions Holland in the final on Sunday. England, meanwhile, will face the losers in Nice in Saturday's third-place play-off. 

England's next major tournament will be on home turf - as they host the 2021 European Championships.