With England and Australia facing off in the Women's World Cup today, all the focus will be on which team can triumph over the other. But the close relationship between the players of both teams means this is no ordinary contest...
The game will see England's Rachel Daly come face to face with Australia's star player Sam Kerr - who is now dating the Lioness' ex-girlfriend, the American footballer Kristie Mewis.
Aston Villa star Daly split from Mewis in 2020, with Kerr reportedly beginning her relationship with Mewis the following year.
The love triangle is just one of many close links between both teams, who have more in common than competitive fans might want to acknowledge.
For example, almost half of the Aussies' 23-strong squad – known as the Matildas – play for English clubs in the Women's Super League.
For instance, Australian star player Kerr joined Chelsea in 2019 – alongside fellow teammates including England's Millie Bright, Fran Kirby, Jess Carter and the currently suspended Lauren James.
Earlier this year James and Kerr were photographed celebrating together arm in arm after winning an award for their performances last season – although England fans will doubtless be praying that Kerr's V for victory sign is not on show after tomorrow's game.
Kerr is the two-time consecutive top goal-scorer at Chelsea, and should she start tomorrow, will be matched against defender Bright, the England captain.
'I love Sam but as soon as you step over that white line, she's the opponent,' Bright said when asked how she'll deal with playing against her team-mate.
'For me, it doesn't matter what happens away from here, she's an opponent and there's a job to be done.'
The pair are good friends - and Bright was pictured scooping Kerr into the air after their team won the 2022 FA Cup.
They were also pictured planting a kiss on the Barclays Women's Super League trophy following the team's victory this year.
Over at Arsenal, Aussie forward Caitlin Foord and England's Jordan Nobbs – a Gunner until earlier this year - were among a group of players who enjoyed a holiday in Ibiza together ahead of the tournament.
The pair, who were pictured out clubbing, were joined by Irish international player Katie McCabe.
As for the Man City contingent playing in the semi-final, England's Chloe Kelly and Australia's Mary Fowler will line up in opposing strips - after causing a stir by stripping off for a Calvin Klein advert.
Kelly became a star for England during last year's Women's Euros, scoring a last-minute goal in extra time against Germany to win the competition, before ripping off her shirt and running the length of the pitch to celebrate.
It was a memorable celebration - and one that England fans will be desperately hoping to see repeated tomorrow.
