Why the Women's World Cup final kick-off time between England and Spain is so early
20.08.2023 - 05:45
/ manchestereveningnews.co.uk
Tensions are high as England prepare to take on Spain in the final of the FIFA Women's World Cup today (Sunday August 20).
England, managed by Sarina Wiegman, earned their place in the final after beating Australia 3-1 in Wednesday's semi final. Meanwhile Spain beat Sweden 2-1 in Tuesday's semi final.
The Lionesses’ victory on Wednesday became the most-watched game of the tournament so far - and many more are expected to cheer on the team against Spain in this weekend's final. The match, hosted at Accor Stadium in Sydney, Australia takes place at an unusually early time for us Brits.
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Kick-off is at 11am because of the time difference between the UK and Australia. Sydney is nine hours ahead of the UK, making it 8pm in Australia when the match begins.
Despite the time zone difference, the BBC said a peak audience of 7.3 million tuned in to watch England beat the host nation 3-1 on Wednesday. Goals from Ella Toone, Lauren Hemp and Alessia Russo gave England the win over the Matildas in Sydney – with thousands of fans taking time off work to watch the match.
The match saw Toone, who was named player of the game, become the first England player to score in a quarter and semi-final game at the Euros and World Cup. Speaking after the game, Toone said her goal had been 'probably the best shot I've ever hit in my life'.
She added: "We've got each others' backs no matter what. I came into this competition with so much belief. This group has brought the best out of me. I feel fearless at the moment, I'm playing some of my best football."
Ahead of Sunday’s final, the three Boxpark fan zones in London – Croydon, Wembley and