Sweden put on a dominant display to thrash Italy 5-0 in their Group G match of the Women’s World Cup 2023. The win was Sweden’s biggest ever victory over Italy, and it puts them through to qualify for the knockout stages of the tournament.
After playing well for first half by Italy, Sweden broke the deadlock six minutes before the half-hour mark Sweden got things off to a flyer, taking the lead at the stroke of halftime with a goal from Amandine IIestedt (39th minute). The goal opened up a three-goal lead for Sweden.
As they triple down their lead at the end of the first half with a goal from Fridolina Rinhöl (44th minute) and then Stina Blackstenius (45 +1′ minute) who scored her third at the stoppage time.
Two goals were added to the score during the second half with goals from Amandine IIestedt (50th minute) and Rebecka Blomqvist (90+5′).
The Queen of Corners = @amandailestedt 🇸🇪👑#FIFAWWC #BeyondGreatness
— FIFA Women’s World Cup (@FIFAWWC) July 29, 2023
Italy were completely outplayed by Sweden on the day, and they never looked like getting back into the match. The win was a statement of intent from Sweden, who are now one of the favorites to win the tournament.
Only a handful of teams in 2023 edition, can seriously challenge the US for the crown and Sweden, third in the world is one of them.
Why the win was significant
The victory over Italy was significant for several reasons. Firstly, it provided Sweden with some much-needed self-assurance. The team had been struggling for some time now, but this win showed that they can still be a serious contender
Secondly, it puts Sweden in the driver’s seat for qualification for the knockout stage. Sweden are now the top-ranked team in Group G, with a realistic chance of going far in the tournament.
Lastly, the win was a sign of intent on the part of Sweden. The team has proven to be one of the contenders for the tournament and will be a difficult team to beat.
Sweden have announced themselves at the #FIFAWWC!
— FIFA Women’s World Cup (@FIFAWWC) July 29, 2023
An impressive display from the Scandinavians, anchored by set-piece dominance! 💪@SvenskFotboll | #BeyondGreatness
How Sweden Demolished Italy
Sweden’s win over Italy was a result of their clinical finishing and their dominant midfield play. Sweden created a number of chances in the first half, and they took their chances well. They also did a good job of controlling the midfield, which prevented Italy from creating any real chances.
🔥 @AmandaIlestedt is unstoppable!
— FIFA Women’s World Cup (@FIFAWWC) July 29, 2023
Currently, no one has more goals in this #FIFAWWC than the @SvenskFotboll defender. 👏⚽️
This group has regularly faced the pressure of being called the country’s “Golden Generation” and almost lived up to that tag two years ago when they lost in the gold medal game at the 2020 Olympic Games to Canada.
However, Saturday’s victory over Italy marks Sweden’s biggest win at a Women’s World Cup since it thrashed Japan 8-0 back in 1991. Sweden also made it to the semi-finals at Euro 2022 and four years ago at the World Cup in France.
This victory puts Sweden firmly on the path to replicating or even surpassing its previous successes.
Italy, however, still has a good chance of making it to the knockout stages. A win over South Africa would see it qualify, while a draw would also do the trick if Sweden beat Argentina as predicted.
Sweden Vs Italy Final Score
| Team | 1st Half | 2nd Half | Final Score |
| Sweden | 3 | 2 | 5 |
| Italy | 0 | 0 | 0 |
Goals :
Amandine IIestedt 39′, 50′
Fridolina Rinhöl 44′
Stina Blackstenius 45+1′
Rebecka Blomqvist 90+5′