Japan 1-2 Sweden: Sweden upset Japan's Women's World Cup hopes, securing semi-final spot

Posted : 11 August 2023

In a stunning display, Sweden delivered a remarkable performance that shattered Japan's hopes of progressing in the Women's World Cup, securing their own place in the semi-finals against Spain.

Japan, previously viewed as strong contenders for the title, had breezed through the group stage and triumphed over Norway in the Round of 16. However, their aspirations were dealt a blow in this encounter against Sweden.

Sweden took the lead through Amanda Ilestedt's goal, exploiting Japan's failure to clear the ball, in the 32nd minute. The lead was extended when Manchester City midfielder Filippa Angeldahl confidently converted a penalty kick.

A pivotal moment arrived when Japan was awarded a contentious penalty. However, Riko Ueki's 76th-minute attempt struck the crossbar, followed by West Ham's Honoka Hayashi scoring a late goal in the 87th minute.

Japan's lifeline came moments after Aoba Fujino's free-kick hit the post. Despite their spirited efforts, Sweden held on to secure their spot in the semi-finals.

Amanda Ilestedt, now playing for Arsenal, has been a standout player in the tournament, tallying four goals. Her latest strike came from the edge of the six-yard box, taking advantage of Japan's defensive lapse.

Goalkeeper Ayaka Yamashita kept Japan in the game with a crucial save against Sweden captain Kosovare Asllani's attempt, while Stina Blackstenius missed an excellent opportunity when the match was still goalless.

Japan's fortunes dimmed further when Filippa Angeldahl converted a penalty after a handball by Japan's Fuka Nagano was spotted by the video assistant referee (VAR).

Despite their previous goal-scoring prowess, Japan struggled to challenge Sweden's goalkeeper, Zecira Musovic, effectively. Sweden's journey to the semi-finals has been marked by determination, overcoming adversity to eliminate the United States in the previous round and securing a hard-fought win against South Africa in the tournament's opening game.

With their second consecutive World Cup semi-final appearance, Sweden has demonstrated their resilience and will to succeed. Their next challenge awaits against Spain, and they will enter the match with confidence, having effectively thwarted Japan's potent attack.

Japan, renowned for their swift counter-attacks and attacking prowess, found the Swedish defense insurmountable on this occasion. Despite a valiant late surge, their dreams of reaching a third World Cup final out of the last four attempts were dashed by Sweden's impressive performance.

The exit of the 2011 World Cup champions guarantees the emergence of a new titleholder in this edition of the tournament.

Japan 1-2 Sweden: Sweden upset Japan's Women's World Cup hopes, securing semi-final spot

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