Sweden finished the World Cup in third place. © ANSA / DARREN ENGLAND

Australia has to admit defeat to Sweden

Sweden's women's soccer team secured bronze at the World Cup in Australia and New Zealand. In the game for third place, the favorite won 2-0 in Brisbane on Saturday and ended up in third place for the fourth time at a World Cup.

August 19, 2023

From: apa

In addition to 1991, this was also the case in 2011 and most recently in 2019. The only time they were better was when they came second in 2003. The goals for the Scandinavians were scored by Fridolina Rolfö (30th) with a penalty kick and Kosovare Asslani (62nd).

For Swedish coach Tony Gustavsson's Australia, reaching the semi-finals was the greatest success in history. In front of 49.461 spectators, the Matildas, who lost 1-3 to England in the semi-finals, tried in vain to dream of bronze.

There was further disappointment for Australia after the semi-final exit. © ANSA / DARREN ENGLAND

Third in the world rankings, Sweden, who had the same personnel as Australia compared to the 1-2 loss against Spain in the semi-finals, took the lead after almost half an hour in an entertaining game. Rolfö scored confidently from the spot; it was the 29-year-old's fourth goal of this final round. The penalty was preceded by a foul by Clare Hunt on Stina Blackstenius, and the VAR had to intervene during the action. About half an hour later, captain Asllani fixed the final score after a counterattack.

The hosts were mostly harmless on offense and were unable to force a turnaround in the finish. Top star and captain Sam Kerr also remained unlucky. She had to be treated after 75 minutes.