‘Phenomenal’ backheel nutmeg goal sends England Lionesses into Euro 2022 final

The 23-year-old Manchester United forward came off the bench to net the cheekiest of goals at Bramall Lane, The Sun reports

It was the pick of the goals in England’s stunning 4-0 win over Sweden.

Stream Over 50 Sports Live & On-Demand with Kayo. New to Kayo? Try 14-Days Free Now >

With the Lionesses already two goals ahead thanks to Beth Mead and Lucy Bronze, Russo added a quite brilliant third.

After seeing an initial effort saved by goalkeeper Hedvig Lindahl, Russo found herself with her back to goal.

But in a genius piece of quick thinking the forward backheeled the ball towards goal; her effort nutmegged goalkeeper Lindahl before nestling in the back of the net.

Russo wheeled away in delight as she celebrated helping fire England into their first major final in 13 years.

England coach Sarina Wiegman said: “You must have so much courage to do something such an unpredictable and phenomenal thing like that.”

Fran Kirby then added a cheeky effort of her own to well and truly put the game beyond doubt.

The Chelsea star spotted Lindahl off her line and lobbed the Sweden stopper from the edge of the area.

But it was Russo‘s goal that sent fans wild at Bramall Lane.

Supporters watching on TV couldn‘t quite believe Russo’s wonderful finish either.

Wiegman‘s side will now face either Germany or France in Sunday’s final under the arch at Wembley.

This article originally appeared on The Sun and was reproduced with permission.

Originally published as Alessia Russo’s ‘phenomenal’ backheel nutmeg goal sends England Lionesses into Euro 2022 final