Ella Toone Says England’s Clash With Australia Will “Feel Like A Revenge Game” Ahead Of Sell-Out Showdown

Ella Toone Braces For “Revenge Game” As England Face Australia

When England step out at Pride Park to face Australia, it won’t just be another friendly — not if you ask Ella Toone.

The Manchester United midfielder has predicted that Tuesday’s clash will “feel like a revenge game” for the Matildas, who were knocked out by England in the 2023 Women’s World Cup semi-final in Sydney.

Australia’s Steph Catley, who described that defeat as the “most heartbreaking” moment of her career, will be among those seeking redemption. Toone, however, is ready for the challenge.

“We broke a lot of their hearts at the World Cup, so it will feel like a revenge game,” Toone said.
“For us, we just want to go out there and put on a big performance. There are no friendlies in football — we want to win every game.”

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England Eye Redemption After Brazil Defeat ➡️

England come into the match looking to bounce back from their 2-1 loss to Brazil, a game that saw the Lionesses struggle despite a one-player advantage for most of the match.

Toone admitted that the quick turnaround is an opportunity to “put it right,” especially with the memory of last summer’s triumphs still fresh.

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Familiar Faces, Fresh Rivalry ⚽

Interestingly, 11 Australian players in the current squad play in the Women’s Super League — meaning Toone and her teammates know their strengths (and weaknesses) well.

“You know what those players bring on the pitch, but it doesn’t change much,” she added. “You’re stepping out there to give 100% no matter who it is.”

Both teams have undergone changes since the World Cup, with Joe Montemurro now managing the Matildas and Sarina Wiegman bringing in new assistant coaches and several uncapped players.

“I didn’t think about the semi-final,” Wiegman said. “We’ve moved on and so have they. It’s about the present, and they will challenge us the way we want to be challenged.”

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Hampton Returns As Lionesses Seek Fast Start

Goalkeeper Hannah Hampton could return after a minor elbow injury, while Anouk Denton has been called up to provide defensive cover.

Wiegman dismissed claims that her side start games too slowly, though she admitted improvement is needed.

“We’ll definitely do everything we can to start better on Tuesday,” she said.

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Full House At Pride Park ️

Tuesday’s match is sold out, marking another milestone in England’s “homecoming series” following their Euro 2025 victory.

Despite several absentees — including Leah Williamson, Lauren Hemp, and Lauren James — Wiegman is confident the energy from fans will push the Lionesses forward.

“We never take a sell-out crowd for granted,” she said. “The support means a lot. We love going around the country to connect with our fans.”

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Final Whistle

With emotions still lingering from the World Cup and national pride on the line, England vs Australia promises more than just a friendly — it’s a clash of rivalry, redemption, and resilience.

The stage is set at Pride Park. The crowd is ready. And as Ella Toone said, there are no friendlies in football.