Sweden secured a hard-fought victory over Japan, defeating them 2-1 to advance to the semi-finals of the Women’s World Cup. Their next opponents will be Spain, setting up an exciting clash on Tuesday, August 15.
Sweden took the lead in the 31st minute through Amanda Ilestedt, who capitalized on a goal-mouth scramble to fire the ball home from close range. Japan tried to regroup but faced further setback when Fuka Nagano handled the ball inside the box, resulting in a penalty for Sweden. Filippa Angeldahl made no mistake from the spot, extending Sweden’s lead to 2-0.
With a comfortable cushion, Peter Gerhardsson’s team appeared to be in control. However, Japan rallied in the final 15 minutes, desperately seeking a comeback. Riko Ueki had an opportunity to reduce the deficit from the penalty spot but struck the crossbar, much to the relief of the Swedes. Nonetheless, Honoka Hayashi managed to pull a goal back in the 87th minute, but it proved too little, too late for Japan.
Sweden started the game strongly and unsettled Japan’s previously praised tactical approach. Despite their dominance, Sweden failed to fully capitalize on their opportunities, with Stina Blackstenius struggling to make an impact up front. Meanwhile, Japan attempted to counterattack when Sweden showed signs of fatigue.
The turning point came in the 25th minute when Blackstenius outmaneuvered Saki Kumagai, but her resulting volley missed the target. Japan responded swiftly with Risa Shimizu delivering a dangerous cross, but Hinata Miyazawa couldn’t convert the chance.
Sweden eventually broke the deadlock as a cross into the box caused chaos in the Japanese defense, allowing Ilestedt to find the back of the net. They came close to doubling their lead just before halftime, but goalkeeper Yoshimi Yamashita tipped Kosovare Asllani’s shot onto the post.
The second half started with another blow for Japan as Nagano’s handball resulted in a penalty for Sweden. Angeldahl confidently converted the spot-kick, giving her team a two-goal advantage. Sweden seemed to be cruising towards the semi-finals, having not conceded a goal in over seven hours and showcasing no signs of fatigue from their previous match against the United States.
However, Japan reignited their fighting spirit and started to trouble the Swedish defense. Zecira Musovic was forced into action, making a crucial save to deny Aoba Fujino’s dangerous cross. The drama escalated when Ueki was brought down in the box and awarded a penalty. Unfortunately for Japan, Ueki’s penalty struck the crossbar, and Sweden managed to clear the ball.
In the dying minutes of the game, Hayashi seized the opportunity to score for Japan, but it proved to be a consolation goal as time was running out.
Sweden’s victory sets up a tantalizing clash with Spain in the semi-finals. Spain will be seeking revenge after suffering a 4-0 defeat against Sweden during the group stages. The match will take place on Tuesday, August 15, at 9 am.
As the Women’s World Cup progresses, the quarter-finals will soon commence in Wellington, Auckland, Brisbane, and Sydney. Exciting matchups are anticipated as the tournament reaches its climax.
Sweden’s win against Japan showcased their resilience and determination, while Japan’s fighting spirit and tactical prowess impressed throughout the tournament. The forthcoming semi-final clash promises to be an enthralling encounter between two talented teams vying for a place in the final.
