Arsenal's Alessia Russo scored the winner to complete a comeback against the South Americans, finding the net just after the hour mark to make it 2-1.
Russo received the ball from Georgia Stanway and brilliantly controlled the ball on the turn before firing into the bottom corner.
"What a goal from Russo," former England striker and talkSPORT's commentator for the game Lianne Sanderson said live from Stadium Australia.
"A great finish, she's fortunate with the way the ball ran but absolutely brilliant.
"Exactly what England needed and what Russo needed."
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Sarina Wiegman's side found themselves behind just before halftime thanks to Leicy Santos' lobbed effort, but Lauren Hemp soon capitalised on an error from Colombia goalkeeper Catalina Perez to net the equaliser.
Russo then stepped up to secure the victory, sending the Lionesses into the next round, all despite the absence of star Lauren James.
England made it to the semi-finals last time out, falling to defeat to the United States.
Now they'll have the opportunity to go one step further when they face hosts Australia on Wednesday.
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The Matildas are the only side to have beaten England since Wiegman took over as manager in 2021, with the World Cup co-hosts beating the Lionesses 2-0 in a friendly in April to end their 30-game unbeaten run.
Now, England have the chance to beat the Aussies to reach the World Cup final for the first time ever as they make the semi-finals for third time in a row.
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