Sweden beats Australia to win another bronze medal at the Women’s World Cup
By The Associated Press on August 19, 2023.
BRISBANE, Australia (AP) – Sweden won yet another bronze medal at the Women’s World Cup, with Fridolina Rolfo and Kosovare Asllani scoring Saturday in a clinical 2-0 win over tournament co-host Australia. The Swedes proved once again they’re tough to beat after a semifinal loss, extending their perfect record in third-place matches to four with the victory in Brisbane. It was a disappointing finish for the Matildas, who captivated the host nation during a run to the semifinals for the first time. The tournament has set attendance records, had packed fan zones around the country, and two of Australia’s matches became the most-watched programs on domestic commercial TV in 20 years. Ultimately, it ended with back-to-back losses. Rolfo converted from the penalty spot with a low, curling left-foot shot in the 30th minute after Australian defender Clare Hunt was penalized after a VAR review after tripping up Stina Blackstenius. Asllani’s well-timed strike to finish off a long-range Swedish counterattack in the 62nd sealed the win. European champion England and Spain are meeting in the final in Sydney on Sunday. ___ AP World Cup coverage: https://apnews.com/hub/fifa-womens-world-cup 11-10
