Freddie Cardy
When Sweden were drawn against reigning champions USA in the Round of 16 of the FIFA Women’s World Cup, very few people, if any at all, would have expected Arsenal’s Lina Hurtig to have the deciding role. The Swedish forward started just three games for the Gunners last season and has only featured in cameos from the bench so far in this tournament.
Stina Blackstenius and Amanda Ilestedt both started once again for Sweden against a changed USA side, who were almost single-handedly denied for 120 minutes by Chelsea goalkeeper Zecira Musovic.
Musovic’s display took the two sides to penalties after a 0-0 draw, and the first five were all scored before the following four all failed to find the net. Sweden were able to get back on track and Kelley O’Hara hit the post, meaning that if Hurtig scored, Sweden would progress to the quarter finals.
The 27 year-old’s spot kick appeared to have been saved by Alyssa Naeher, but as the ball floated up under the crossbar, it was confirmed to have crossed the line by a hair’s breadth by VAR. Hurtig [just] the hero, and Arsenal teammates Ilestedt and Blackstenius heading through with her.
— Ian Wright (@IanWright0) August 6, 2023
Victoria Pelova started at right wingback once again as the Netherlands won 2-0 against South Africa to join Spain, Japan and Sweden in the quarter finals. Pelova played 89 minutes before being substituted with the win firmly secured.
Former Arsenal midfielder Jill Roord found the target once again in this World Cup to give the Dutch an early lead, with Lineth Beerensteyn completing the victory in the second half.
The Netherlands have looked strong so far, and will take on Spain in the quarters.
