Women’s World Cup 2011 Quarterfinals, Sweden Vs. Australia: Blagult Advance To Semifinals, Will Face Japan

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.

Though the 2011 FIFA Women’s World Cup quarterfinal between Sweden and Australia appears to be the least sexy of the four matchups, it appears to carry much more weight after Saturday’s events. With no disrespect meant to Japan, who deserved their win over favorites Germany, Sweden and Australia were thought to be playing merely for a semifinal berth by most, with both having little chance at reaching the final. Now, with Japan having upset Germany, both Sweden and Australia will have renewed confidence that they can win the tournament.

Sweden looked great against the United States, and they won that game without the player who was arguably their best in the first two games. Caroline Seger, possibly Sweden’s most creative player, was suspended due to yellow card accumulation and should re-join the starting lineup. Her combinations with Lotta Schelin, who had her best game of the tournament against the United States, could prove deadly.