Sweden pulled off another surprising victory in the FIFA Women’s World Cup by defeating Japan 2-1 in the semi-finals. Japan’s team was left in tears as Sweden celebrated their place in the semi-finals, where they will face Spain, who earlier defeated the Netherlands.
Sweden’s unexpected win over Japan means that this year’s World Cup will crown a new champion. Japan’s elimination guarantees that the winner will be a first-time recipient of the championship title.
Amanda Ilestedt scored in the first half, and Filippa Angeldal converted a penalty in the second half, leading to Sweden’s surprising victory. This win secured Sweden’s fifth appearance in the semi-finals, according to analysis from the news agency Associated Press.
In spite of Japan’s impressive performance prior to the match, having scored 14 goals and maintaining a perfect 4-0 record, they struggled to keep up with Sweden, who held a 2-0 lead late into the second half.
Japan attempted a comeback, putting pressure on Swedish goalkeeper Zecira Musovic. In the 76th minute, Riko Ueki took a penalty kick that hit the crossbar and deflected away from the goal. However, in the 86th minute, substitute player Honoka Hayashi managed to narrow Sweden’s lead to 2-1, giving Japan hope for a late resurgence.
The Swedish national team, who were runners-up in the 2003 World Cup and have earned third place three times, eliminated the previously undefeated Japanese team with a score of 2-1.
(With AP inputs)