Ella Toone's goal celebration vs Australia has emotional meaning as England star's gesture spotted

Ella Toone starred as England defeated Australia to reach the Women's World Cup final - and her celebration after scoring the opening goal has a special meaning.

The Manchester United attacking midfielder scored one of the goals of the tournament in the first half, firing a right-footed shot into the top right corner from 18 yards out.

The ball flew into the back of the net, giving Matildas goalkeeper Mackenzie Arnold no chance of saving it.

It was Toone's first goal in a World Cup, and her 17th overall in just 37 senior England matches.

After scoring, the 23-year-old wheeled away in celebration - and her subsequent gesture has a special meaning.

What does Ella Toone's celebration mean?

As part of her celebration, Toone kissed a tattoo on her left wrist and made a love heart gesture with both hands.

The attacking midfielder had the tattoo, which is shaped as a loveheart, alongside five of her friends last year.

And speaking to BBC Sport ahead of the crunch semi-final fixture in Sydney, Toone revealed the meaning behind her celebration if she were to score.

She explained: "I'm under strict orders that, my mates, we all got a matching tattoo before I came out. They want me to kiss it and do a little love heart.

"So I promised them that I'd do that."

ELLA TOONE. Incredible. 👏 🎯 #FIFAWWC #ENG #AUS pic.twitter.com/01xHbT5Xru

— BBC Sport (@BBCSport) August 16, 2023

Following Toone's goal, Sam Kerr equalised for Australia with a 25-yard deflected effort beyond Mary Earps.

But Lauren Hemp restored the Lionesses' advantage following a defensive error, before the Manchester City star ran through midfield and played in Alessia Russo for the third and final goal.

Sarina Wiegman's side take on Spain - who possess the reigning Ballon d'Or Feminin winner Alexia Putellas among their ranks - in the Women's World Cup final. The game takes place at Stadium Australia on Sunday at 11am UK time (8pm local).