Sweden vs Australia 2011. The forward firepower of Sweden and Australia faces off in the quarterfinals of the 2011 FIFA Women's World Cup, with both teams gunning for a date with Japan. A quarterfinal match few would have predicted will take place July 10 when Sweden takes on Australia. Before the tournament, the United States was expected to win Group C and Norway to take the second spot in Group D. As neither one of those scenarios panned out, we get Sweden vs. Australia.
Both teams seem to have been improving with each step in group play. They also were involved in important matches for their last group fixtures. For Sweden, it fought for the top of Group C. Australia needed to do well to even advance out of group.
Sweden tops United States, riding high
Giving the United States it first loss ever in group play at a Women's World Cup, Sweden knocked down the No.1-ranked team by a score of 2-1. The key to the match for Sweden was being able to take advantage of chances presented.
Their first goal came as a result of a penalty kick from an ill-advised foul by American defender Amy LePeilbet. Lisa Dahlkvist was able to put it away for Sweden. Its second score off another foul, and a free kick for the Swedes. Rachael Buehler was whistled about 25 yards out, and Nilla Fischer attempted the free kick. With the ball going to her left, United States goalkeeper Hope Solo committed, but the ball was deflected off LePeilbet at the wall, sending it shooting into the opposite side of the net.
Australia fights for spot in quarters, Matildas come through
Needing at least a draw to advance, Australia pulled out a 2-1 victory over Norway to secure its spot in the quarterfinals. The match didn't go well for the Matildas at first, when a defensive error allowed Norway to go up 1-nil.
Australia wasn't ready to step aside, or even slow down. Just one minute later it found the equalizer. The match stayed even until the 87th minute, when Kyah Simon got the second of her brace to bring it home for the Matildas.
A good match between two sides with momentum
Neither Sweden or Australia stands out as an obvious pick one over the other, although Sweden will be slightly favored by virtue of the match against United States. Personally, I don't see that being enough. I think Australia will surprise, and the Matilidas will find themselves on to the semifinals. Watch Sweden vs Australia Live Stream Online Women's World Cup 2011
