Alessia Russo is set to live out childhood dream by playing in a World Cup final… as the England star calls the tournament’s showpiece a ‘pinch me moment’

England striker Alessia Russo said the World Cup final is a ‘pinch me moment’ for her after dreaming about it as a child.

‘As a child we played ‘World Cup’ in the garden.

We had to score to stay in it,” she said. ‘

And to think now that we are playing in a World Cup final is a special feeling. It’s a real pinch me moment.

“Of course this is the biggest game, the game you dream of, the game that means the most.

Russo has scored three goals in the tournament, including the third goal in the semi-final victory

“I have a feeling it will hit when we are in the tunnel and ready to walk out.

It’s been an incredible opportunity, it’s been an incredible tournament and this is it — this is exactly where we want to be. We can not wait.’

Her coach Sarina Wiegman has insisted she has no plans to give up her role as England coach before her contract expires in 2025, despite being linked with the United States job.

‘I’ve heard it. I am with England, I am very happy with England and I have a contract until 2025,” said the Dutch.