Sweden and South Africa advanced from Group G at the 2023 Women’s World Cup, with Italy and Argentina eliminated.

A 2-1 win over South Africa, followed by a 5-0 rout of Italy, confirmed Sweden’s place in the round of 16 with one match to play. The Swedes completed their group phase with a 2-0 victory over Argentina. Amanda ILESTEDT paced the squad with three goals, all on headers.

Banyana Banyana had taken the lead over Sweden through Hilda MAGAIA, but conceded twice late on. In their next match, South Africa took a 2-0 lead over Argentina but escaped with only one point. Needing to defeat Italy in their last match, South Africa fell behind early, took the lead, and then conceded an equaliser on a penalty. But in stoppage time, Thembi KGATLANA scored the winner to send the Women’s African Nations Cup champions into the last sixteen.

Sweden will travel to Melbourne/​Naarm, VIC for their round of 16 match against perennial foes the United States on SUN 06 AUG 2023. Earlier in the day, South Africa will face the Netherlands in Sydney/​Gadigal, NSW.