Australia are radiating confidence ahead of England clash says Arnold | OneFootball

Australia goalkeeper Mackenzie Arnold says that The CommBank Matildas can ‘go all the way’ ahead of their semi-final clash with England.

Playing down the rivalry between the two sporting nations, Arnold spoke of the belief Australia have in the dressing room.

“We’ve just come off beating all these top teams that maybe we hadn’t done in the past, so I think everyone’s confidence is radiating off each other,” Arnold said when speaking in the pre-match press conference.

Arnold also said that her experience playing for West Ham United against some of the Lionesses’ key players in the Barclays Women’s Super League will give her an edge.

She said “I am quite familiar with how they play, their tendencies and I think that helps me a lot. I play against them week in, week out and I think I can take a lot of confidence from that for sure.”

Arnold kept out four spot kicks in Australia’s penalty shootout victory over France in the quarter-final, but her own penalty hit the woodwork. When asked if she’s prepared to take another against England if required, Arnold said that she is ready to step up to the spot.

“I am ready if I have to take one,” Arnold said. “If it has to happen again, yes I will be ready.”

As co-hosts of the FIFA Women’s World Cup, Australia will have the backing of a 75,000-strong crowd at Stadium Australia in Sydney. Arnold believes the home advantage could make the difference.

She said “They’re really like a 12th man out there for us, and I really do believe they’ve gotten us over the line on more times than one. They’re going to be vital for us.”

Australia’s FIFA Women’s World Cup semi-final against England kicks-off at 11am.