Matildas versus Sweden: When are they playing? Where can I watch it? Your ultimate guide to the third-place Women’s World Cup playoff
Matildas vs Sweden: When do they play? Where can I watch it? Your ultimate guide to third place in the Women’s World Cup playoffs
The Matildas are potentially 90 minutes away from third place at a World Cup.
It’s an achievement to be celebrated, but getting in the way of Swedes, who will be just as desperate to add the honor to their international football resume.
In their previous meeting, Australia won 4-0 in November last year thanks to a brace from Caitlin Foord.
Sam Kerr and Mary Fowler also found the back of the net in Melbourne.
WHEN AND WHERE WILL THE MATCH BE PLAYED?
Brisbane Stadium – normally known as Suncorp Stadium until the name was changed by FIFA for the duration of the tournament. Kick-off is Saturday, August 19 at 6:00 PM CEST.
Sam Kerr and Caitlin Foord (right) will be key players for the Matildas against Sweden in the World Cup third place playoff in Brisbane on Saturday
Goalkeeper Zecira Musovic was a star for Sweden during the World Cup
HOW CAN I WATCH IT?
Coverage is on Channel 7 and Optus Sport, as well as live sites around the country including the Sydney Cricket Ground (gates open at 5.30pm) and AAMI Park in Melbourne. The action can also be seen on the broadcaster’s streaming service, 7Plus.
Federation Square will not be open due to misbehavior from some supporters during the semi-final defeat to England earlier this week.
Adelaide’s Festival Plaza is an official FIFA live site, as are Canberra’s Garema Place, Brisbane’s South Bank Parklands and Perth’s Forrest Place.
HOW HARD WILL IT BE TO BEAT SWEDEN?
According to FIFA’s current world rankings, the Swedes are in third place, with the Matildas in tenth place.
The Swedes lost 2-1 to Spain in their semi-finals thanks to a stunning goal from the Europeans late in the game, but before that they defeated Japan 2-1 in the quarter-finals and picked up a huge scalp as they defeated the USWNT on penalties. the round of 16.
In the group stage, the Scandinavians handily defeated Argentina and Italy after starting their cup with a 2-1 victory over South Africa.
It’s safe to say they go into the playoffs as one of the top teams in the tournament, despite their heartbreaking loss to the Spaniards.
WHO ARE THE MOST IMPORTANT PLAYERS FOR BOTH TEAMS?
No prizes for guessing who when it comes to Australia – captain and superstar striker Sam Kerr. Her combination with Caitlin Foord in the final will be crucial.
Coach Tony Gustavsson can also call on his fringe players, including Emily van Egmond, Tameka Yallop, Cortnee Vine and Charli Grant as potential starters.
When it comes to Sweden, goalkeeper Zecira Musovic is a standout in the tournament. Defensive midfielder Filippa Angeldal and Elin Rubensson will try to dictate the pace from the opening whistle.
WILL THE MATILDAS BE FAVORITES?
According to BetRight, No. Peter Gerhardsson’s team pays $2.40 to win, Australia pays the outsiders $2.90 and a draw pays bettors $3.40.
WHAT PRIZE MONEY IS UP FOR GRABING?
If the Matildas finish third in the World Cup, each player will receive $180,000 each.
DAILY MAIL AUSTRALIA’S FEARLESS FORECAST:
Matilda’s 2-1 win, with goals from Sam Kerr and Hayley Raso.