In a thrilling conclusion, Amanda Ilestedt of Sweden scored a goal in the last minute, clinching a 2-1 victory over South Africa in the FIFA Women’s World Cup match in Wellington.
The South African team, victors of the 2022 Africa Cup of Nations, nearly secured their first World Cup point, a potential improvement from their previous World Cup appearance in 2019 where they suffered defeat in all three games.
The game saw an opening score in the 48th minute from South Africa’s Hildah Magaia, however, this was soon offset by a goal from Sweden’s Frida Rolfo, which was followed by Ilestedt’s game-changing header.
Sweden now leads Group G, while Argentina and Italy are set to face each other on Monday.
South Africa’s captain Refiloe Jane nearly took the lead early on with a daring 40-yard attempt after noticing Sweden’s goalkeeper Zecira Musovic out of position. The ball, however, ended up on the net’s roof.
Despite impressive counter-attacking from Desiree Ellis’ team, Sweden, ranking third globally, had difficulty creating significant chances. Filippa Angeldal’s attempt to score from a free-kick routine resulted in the only save from Kaylin Swart in the first half.
South Africa emerged energetically after halftime, with Musovic only able to deflect Thembi Kgatlana’s shot towards Magaia, who promptly ran the ball into the net, marking South Africa’s second World Cup goal.
Unfortunately, Magaia could not join in the subsequent team celebrations as she was injured while scoring and was soon replaced.
As Sweden began pushing more players forward seeking an equalizer, South Africa found additional counter-attack opportunities and seemed the more threatening side.
However, the tide turned when Rolfo redirected Johanna Kaneryd’s cross into the goal with a deflection off South Africa’s Lebohang Ramalepe.
The Swedish team, led by Peter Gerhardsson, continued to press but was repeatedly repelled by South Africa’s staunch defense until a corner kick from Kosovare Asllani found Ilestedt, who headed in the decisive goal.
The match’s standout player was Kosovare Asllani, who earned an average rating of 8.36. Other notable performances from the Swedish team included Stina Blackstenius (7.98), Amanda Ilestedt (7.90), and Johanna Rytting Kaneryd (7.89).
Match statistics showed Sweden dominating possession at 69% against South Africa’s 31%. Sweden also led in shots, with 15 attempts compared to South Africa’s 10. Of these, Sweden had 6 on target while South Africa managed 4. Corner kicks were also predominantly in Sweden’s favor with 13 against South Africa’s 1. The match was relatively even in terms of fouls, with 9 committed by Sweden and 8 by South Africa.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Sweden vs South Africa FIFA Women’s World Cup
Who scored the winning goal in the Sweden vs South Africa match at the FIFA Women’s World Cup?
Amanda Ilestedt of Sweden scored the decisive goal in the last minute of the match, securing a 2-1 victory over South Africa.
What group is Sweden leading in the World Cup?
Following their victory over South Africa, Sweden is currently leading Group G in the FIFA Women’s World Cup.
Who was the standout player in the match between Sweden and South Africa?
Kosovare Asllani was the standout player in the match, with an impressive average rating of 8.36.
How did South Africa perform in the match against Sweden?
Despite a strong performance and opening the score with a goal from Hildah Magaia, South Africa was eventually defeated by Sweden 2-1 in a closely contested match.
Which team had the most possession in the match between Sweden and South Africa?
In the match, Sweden dominated possession, holding the ball 69% of the time compared to South Africa’s 31%.
Who was South Africa’s first goal scorer in the match against Sweden?
Hildah Magaia scored the first goal for South Africa in the 48th minute of the game.
More about Sweden vs South Africa FIFA Women’s World Cup
- FIFA Women’s World Cup Official Site
- Sweden National Women’s Team
- South Africa National Women’s Team
- Amanda Ilestedt Player Profile
- Kosovare Asllani Player Profile
- Hildah Magaia Player Profile
6 comments
Can’t believe that last min winner by Ilestedt, what a match! Sweden played great, though props to South Africa too, they held their own.
Watched the match, solid defense from South Africa but Sweden’s attack was relentless. This is football at its best! what a match.
Amanda Ilestedt…remember the name! That girl’s got game, amazing header. Hoping for more of this in the cup!
asllani’s corner was the game changer no doubt. and south africa, man, they’ve improved a lot since 2019. cant wait for their next match.
so proud of the Swedish team! keep the wins coming, ladies!
So close! Really thought we had it this time, but great effort from the ladies. Next time for sure!