Sport
2023 WWC: Ilestedt’s brace leads Sweden to 5-0 victory over Italy
Amanda Ilestedt’s remarkable brace guided Sweden to a resounding 5-0 triumph over Italy in Wellington, securing their place in the World Cup last 16 with a game still in hand.
Sweden’s defender, Ilestedt, opened the scoring with a powerful header in the 39th minute, kickstarting a flurry of goals late in the first half, with Fridolina Rolfo and Stina Blackstenius also finding the back of the net.
The second half saw Ilestedt continue her impressive display, netting her third goal of the tournament with another headed effort. Substitute Rebecka Blomqvist sealed the victory in stoppage time, capping off a dominant performance by the Swedish team.
With this convincing win, Sweden now sets their sights on securing top spot in Group G when they face Argentina on Wednesday. Meanwhile, Italy, who showed glimpses of promise early on, will be eager to bounce back and secure their place in the knockout stages with their final group game against South Africa.