Standing between England and back-to-back major tournament finals were hosts Australia, who were looking to go all the way on home soil. Sam Kerr scored a sensational goal to cancel out Ella Toone’s opener, but quickfire goals from Lauren Hemp and Alessia Russo helped England over the line.

Ahead of the tournament, Bright was awarded the England captaincy and has excelled in the role. The Blues defender has played every minute for the Lionesses Down Under, with the team one victory away from world domination.

Reflecting on reaching the World Cup final, Bright explained that despite their success at the European Championship last summer, there remained a collective feeling that there was still work to be done and further progress to be made.

‘It’s a moment we’ve wanted for so long. We had amazing success last summer but we always knew that there was something missing and it’s always been the World Cup. To have that opportunity is incredible and the dream remains alive. We found a way but what an incredible semi-final.’

However, there are many factors which contribute to success at a major tournament, and Bright highlighted the importance of the attitude within the squad. She praised the impact of manager Sarina Wiegman on individuals and the group as a whole.

‘Mentality, I’ve said it a million times and I’ll continue saying it. The mentality of this group is something I’ve never seen before and that comes from Sarina (Wiegman) with the belief that she gives us within ourselves. We can play many different ways and that’s the beauty of this squad. Whatever an opponent throws at us, we adapt and find a way to win. I’m really proud of the girls.’

From her recovery from injury in time to feature at the tournament, to the prospect of captaining England in the final, Bright remains humble and focused on the challenge ahead, with a few days to process a plethora of emotions.

‘I’m just keeping two feet on the ground. I’ll remain on task and remain focused but I don’t even have any words for that. Just to say that we’re going to the final is crazy, overwhelming and so many different emotions. I’m so happy we could give the fans the dream they wanted back home, the fans that were here as well. We’re off to the final and to be leading them out will be incredible.’

Our World Cup stars will return to domestic action when the Women’s Super League season begins in October. Click here to view our ticket bundles and find out how to secure your seats for 2023/24!