After an absolutely brilliant performance, Sweden are through to the semifinals of the 2011 FIFA Women's World Cup thanks to their convincing 3-1 defeat of Australia. They now move on to face Japan in what should be a thrilling semifinal match. Star striker Lotta Schelin was the clear woman of the match, but it truly was a complete team performance from the Blagult to defeat the Matildas, as they were very good in every area of the pitch.
Sweden got off to a blistering start in the first half, scoring two goals in the opening 16 minutes to go up 2-0. Therese Sjogran scored the opener, finishing low from 12 yards out after being set up by Schelin and Caroline Seger. She then assisted on the second goal, putting in a cross for Lisa Dahlkvist, who headed the ball into the back of the net.
Australia looked like they had a shot to get back in it just before the stroke of halftime, thanks to a stunning goal from Ellyse Perry. The sometimes international footballer, sometimes international cricketer picked up a short corner and hit an incredible 30 yard shot into the back of the net, hitting the upper 90 at the far post, but it would be Australia's only goal and best chance of the match.
In the second half, Sweden shut down the match. The third goal came early in the second half, with Schelin finishing off a spectacular assist from...Australia defender Kim Carroll. Since the Aussies usually wear yellow, the color Sweden wore today, we can only hope that Carroll's back pass was the result of color confusion. As she apparently tried to play the ball back to her keeper, Carroll actually just ended up sending Schelin through on a one on one. She brilliantly rounded Melissa Barbieri and passed the ball into the back of the net, making the score 3-1 and effectively ending the game.
The rest of the game was mostly made up of Sweden just holding their shape and passing the ball well, killing off the game. Their win was well deserved, and their performance might have been better than the scoreboard indicates. Japan will have their hands full with the Blagult, with the two teams facing off on Wednesday.
source:sbnation.com
