- Sweden destroy Italy
- Three of five goals from corners
- Sweden through to last 16
TELL ME MORE: Sweden demolished Italy 5-0 in Wellington in one of the most one-sided games at the 2023 Women's World Cup thus far. Three of Sweden's five goals came from corners, with the Italians simply unable to cope with the aerial presence of their opponents.
Two Goals from Amanda Ilestedt and one apiece from Fridolina Rolfo, Stina Blackstenius and Rebecka Blomqvist meant that Sweden are now through to the knockout rounds of the tournament with a game to spare, and can rest players in their last remaining group stage game against Argentina.
Italy, meanwhile, are still in a good position having won their first game of the tournament.
Please enable Javascript to view this contentTHE MVP: There were a few players who could've earned the tag of MVP, but it has to go to centre back Ilestedt. She scored twice, both from corner kicks. Italy simply couldn't handle her desire to win headers in their penalty box.
THE BIG LOSER: This one has to go to Italy in general. It was a poor performance from Milena Bertolini's side. Sweden carved them open time and again, and only occasional poor finishing stopped the game from resembling a cricket score. Yet they still have their destiny in their own hands going into the final game of the group against South Africa.
MATCH IN TWO PHOTOS:
WHAT NEXT? Sweden are now through to the knockout phase, meaning that one from Italy, Argentina and South Africa can progress with them. Sweden face Argentina next in Hamilton, New Zealand, while Italy square off against South Africa in Wellington.
MATCH RATING (OUT OF FIVE): ⭐⭐⭐⭐