Sweden Crush Italy 4-0 in Women’s World Cup Group

The Scandinavian Side Showed Their Class and Quality in a Dominant Display Against the Azzurre

Sweden proved their credentials as one of the favourites for the 2023 Fifa Women’s World Cup with a clinical 4-0 win over Italy in their second Group G match in Wellington. The Swedes scored three goals from corners and one from a brilliant counter-attack to seal their place in the last 16 with a game to spare.

Sweden Break Italy’s Resistance with Set-Piece Prowess

The first half was a tight and tense affair, with both teams trying to impose their style and tempo on the game. Italy had more possession and created some chances, but Sweden defended well and looked dangerous on the break.

The deadlock was broken in the 39th minute, when Sweden scored from their first corner of the game. Magdalena Eriksson swung the ball into the box and Amanda Ilestedt rose highest to head it past Francesca Durante in the Italian goal.

Five minutes later, Sweden doubled their lead from another corner. This time, it was Hanna Glas who delivered a pinpoint cross and Fridolina Rolfo who nodded it home from close range.

Sweden were not done yet, as they added a third goal in the first minute of stoppage time. A swift counter-attack saw Stina Blackstenius receive the ball on the left wing, cut inside and curl a stunning shot into the top corner, leaving Durante helpless.

Italy Fail to Respond as Sweden Cruise to Victory

Italy came out for the second half with more urgency and intensity, but they could not find a way through the solid Swedish defence. The Swedes were well organised and disciplined, and did not allow Italy any space or time on the ball.

Sweden continued to pose a threat from set-pieces, and they scored their fourth goal from another corner in the 50th minute. After three attempts, Ilestedt finally headed the ball past Durante for her second goal of the game.

Italy tried to salvage some pride and score a consolation goal, but they were frustrated by Sweden’s goalkeeper Hedvig Lindahl, who made some fine saves to keep a clean sheet. Sweden were content to control the game and see out the win, which put them on top of Group G with six points.

What Does This Result Mean for Both Teams?

Sweden have secured their spot in the knockout stage of the tournament, and they will face South Africa in their final group game on Wednesday. They will be confident of maintaining their perfect record and finishing as group winners.

Italy have suffered their first defeat of the tournament, and they will need to bounce back against Argentina on Wednesday. They are currently second in Group G with three points, but they could be overtaken by Argentina or South Africa depending on the outcome of their match later today.

FAQs

• Q: When and where did Sweden play Italy in the Women’s World Cup?

• A: Sweden played Italy in their second Group G match of the 2023 Fifa Women’s World Cup on Saturday, July 29, at WIN Stadium in Wellington, New Zealand.

• Q: What was the final score of the match?

• A: Sweden won the match 4-0, with goals from Amanda Ilestedt (2), Fridolina Rolfo and Stina Blackstenius.

• Q: How did Sweden score their goals?

• A: Sweden scored three goals from corners and one from a counter-attack. Ilestedt scored two headers from Eriksson’s and Glas’ crosses, Rolfo scored another header from Glas’ cross, and Blackstenius scored a solo goal from a long pass by Angeldahl.

• Q: Who are the top scorers of Group G so far?

• A: Stina Blackstenius of Sweden is the top scorer of Group G with three goals, followed by Amanda Ilestedt of Sweden and Valentina Giacinti of Italy with two goals each.

• Q: What are the standings of Group G after two games?

• A: Sweden are on top of Group G with six points, followed by Italy with three points, Argentina with zero points (but one game in hand), and South Africa with zero points (but one game in hand).

Conclusion

Sweden showed their class and quality in a dominant display against Italy in their second Group G match of the 2023 Fifa Women’s World Cup. They scored four goals from set-pieces and counter-attacks, and kept a clean sheet with a solid defence. They have secured their place in the last 16 with a game to spare, while Italy have suffered their first defeat and will need to recover against Argentina on Wednesday.