In a dominant display, Sweden secured their place in the World Cup last 16 with a convincing 5-0 victory over Italy in Wellington.
Amanda Ilestedt, the defender who recently joined Arsenal alongside Stina Blackstenius, played a significant role in the win.
She opened the scoring with a header in the 39th minute, initiating a flurry of goals for Sweden just before halftime.
Fridolina Rolfo and Stina Blackstenius also found the back of the net in quick succession.
Early in the second half, Ilestedt continued her impressive form, heading in her third goal of the tournament from another corner.
Subsequently, Rebecka Blomqvist sealed the deal with a stoppage-time goal.
With this triumph, Sweden has secured their spot in the next round and will aim to finish at the top of Group G when they face Argentina in their final group game.
Meanwhile, Italy, despite a lively start, couldn’t maintain their momentum and will enter their last group match against South Africa with three points.
South Africa and Argentina both have one point each in the group standings.
Sweden’s attacking prowess came to the fore as they created numerous chances and found the net on multiple occasions.
Ilestedt’s partnership with Jonna Andersson during corner kicks proved particularly fruitful for the Swedish team.
By scoring her third goal in the tournament, she now shares the position of top-scorer with Brazil’s Ary Borges.
The game saw Sweden’s cohesive play and clinical finishing, as they capitalized on their opportunities throughout the match.
Blackstenius, though missing a chance to score her second goal, was part of the Swedish domination alongside her teammates.
Finally, Blomqvist’s late goal added to the convincing scoreline as Sweden emerged victorious in style.