Prince William has shared a heartfelt message to the Matildas, just minutes after their World Cup campaign came to a tragic end.
Fans and players were seen in tears at Stadium Australia on Wednesday night as the Matildas folded to England after a phenomenal performance.
Though Aussies went wild for skipper Sam Kerr, who ignited the match with a stunning long range goal in the second half, England’s Lionesses came back with a brutal 3-1 win.
England’s players may have been blasted by pundits for their alleged “dirty tactics”, but the Prince of Wales had nothing but kind words for the winning team.
“What a phenomenal performance from the Lionesses — on to the final!” William wrote to the official Prince and Princess of Wales Twitter account after the tense semi-final came to a close.
“Commiserations to the Matildas, you’ve played brilliantly and been fantastic co-hosts of this World Cup. W”
King Charles was also full of praise for both teams.
“My wife and I join all our family in sending the mighty Lionesses our warmest congratulations on reaching the final of the World Cup, and in sharing our very best wishes for Sunday’s match,” he said.
“While your victory may have cost the magnificent Matildas their chance for the greatest prize in the game, both teams have been an inspiration on and off the pitch – and, for that, both nations are united in pride, admiration and respect.”
English fans celebrated in the responses to his tweet, with many urging William to get on a flight Down Under to watch the final match.
“One of the most patriotic teams in FIFA Womens World Cup, Lionesses, has made it to the finals. We are markedly proud of you all. God Save the King,” wrote one patriotic supporter.
“William get your flight booked, you need to be there to watch them win the final,” urged another.
A third wrote: “First time after 57 years, we are in the final. Wow! Women are doing it what our men haven’t been able to do. Let’s get football home!”
Several pundits weren’t so impressed by England’s performance. Some even accused them of attacking star skipper Kerr.
Optus Sport’s Steve Wilson led the charge after Kerr got into three fierce clashes with the opposing team.
“Sam Kerr might just be getting the feeling that England are targeting her. That’s three times now,” Wilson said.
Fellow commentator Amy Chapman said of Alex Greenwood tackling Kerr: “Greenwood very aware of who that was. That was a very nasty tackle.”
“Number one on the list of tactics was ‘kick Sam Kerr a couple of times,’” Optus Sport tweeted.
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