Sweden’s Elin Rubensson scored a decisive 90th-minute penalty kick, leading Sweden to a 2-0 victory over Argentina at the 2023 Women’s World Cup in Hamilton, New Zealand. (Photo: How Hwee Young/EPA-EFE)
Aug. 2 (UPI) — Sweden displayed their dominance with two goals in the second half, earning a shutout victory over Argentina in Group G at Hamilton, New Zealand. This win secures Sweden’s spot in the Round of 16 and sets up a highly anticipated match against the United States, the top-ranked team in the tournament. The showdown will take place on Sunday at AAMI Park in Melbourne.
Striker Rebecka Blomqvist and midfielder Elin Rubensson were the heroes in Sweden’s 2-0 triumph at FMG Stadium Waikato. Sweden maintained control throughout the game with a 44% possession rate and 7 shots on goal compared to Argentina’s 38% possession rate and 6 shots on goal. Additionally, Sweden dominated the passing game, completing 449 passes compared to Argentina’s 326. They also had a significant advantage in crosses, with 20 compared to Argentina’s 11.
The breakthrough came in the 66th minute when Rebecka Blomqvist scored a goal, putting Sweden in the lead. Midfielder Hanna Bennison initiated the play with an impressive dribble, passing the ball to Sofia Jakobsson. Jakobsson then delivered a precise cross, allowing Blomqvist to head the ball into the net.
Despite some close attempts from both teams, it was Elin Rubensson who sealed the victory for Sweden in the 90th minute, converting a penalty kick with precision.
The upcoming match between the United States and Sweden is highly anticipated, as Sweden previously defeated the US 3-0 in the group stage of the 2020 Summer Games held in 2021 in Tokyo. This victory marked a significant moment in their rivalry, although Sweden ultimately lost to Canada in the gold medal game. Sweden also emerged victorious against the US in the 2016 Summer Games quarterfinals.
In other Group G action, South Africa caused an upset by defeating Italy 3-2, securing a spot in the Round of 16. The South African team, previously winless in Women’s World Cup matches, finished second in Group G and will advance to the knockout stage. In Group F, France emerged as the winner, defeating Panama 6-3. Jamaica also secured a spot in the Round of 16 with a scoreless draw against Brazil, which failed to advance for the first time since 1995.
In the next round, France will face the runner-up from Group H, while Jamaica will take on the Group H champion. Group H is currently led by Colombia, followed by Germany, Morocco, and South Korea.
Colombia will face Morocco on Thursday in Perth, Australia, while Germany will play against South Korea at the same time in Brisbane, Australia.
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