Sweden beat Japan 2-1, to book semi-final spot at Women’s World Cup

2020 Olympic silver medalists Sweden are through to the semi-final of the ongoing FIFA Women’s World Cup after snatching a dramatic 2-1 win over 2011 champions Japan.

Sweden took the lead from defender Amanda Ilestedt who scored her fourth goal of the tournament in the 32nd minute, and doubled their lead through Filippa Angeldal who scored from the penalty spot six minutes into the second half.

Japan missed a chance to half the deficit when Riko Ueki missed a penalty in the 76th minute, but they did get their goal from Honoka Hayashi in the 87th minute. And although Japan did pile pressure late on, Sweden held on for the win to reach their fifth World Cup semi-final, where they will face Spain.

Earlier in the day, Spain defeated the Netherlands 2-1 after extra time, to reach a World Cup semi-final for the first time.