Japan 1-2 Sweden: Former champions toppled as Sweden book semi-finals place
Sweden pulled off another 2023 World Cup shock when they beat Japan 2-1 to book their spot in the semi-finals.
Although Sweden beat the US on penalties, they didn’t perform well, and fans and pundits were not confident about progressing past Japan – a team that has been near perfect since the start of the tournament.
The good news – with Japan out, the winners of the world cup will be first-time winners.
Magnificent Sweden
Sweden pulled out all the stops and produced a magnificent performance that left Japan stunned.
After a corner kick was sent into the box and a bit of a scramble, Amanda Ilestedt was able to put the ball in the net.
Sweden’s lead was doubled when Filippa Angeldahl scored from the spot.
Japan was awarded a penalty in the 76th minute, but it struck the crossbar and Japan couldn’t find the net. Pundits would say the miss was justice as the penalty shouldn’t have been given.
In the 87th minute of the match, Honoka Hayashi was able to find a goal for Japan.
Japan only came alive in the closing stages and even after Hayashi scored, Sweden managed to control the 10 minutes of additional time.
Japan struggled
Japan eased through the group stages and Round of 16 with ease, pulling out all the stops to give the fans truly memorable performances.
With their style and counter-attacking abilities, many saw Japan in line for their second World Cup glory.
But they looked a pale imitation of the side they have been so far. Their first attempt on goal was in the 63rd minute.
Japan has shown they can counter-attack and cut through opposition defences at pace throughout the tournament. But this was one step too far.
Japan vs Sweden – Match preview, live stream, kick-off time, prediction, team news, lineups