Sweden continued their impressive run at the Women's World Cup, securing a perfect record of three wins from three matches in Group G.
Their latest victory, a 2-0 result against Argentina in Hamilton, guarantees them the top spot in the group and sets up an enticing last-16 encounter with the USA.
With their superior goal difference essentially sealing the top position, Sweden made nine changes to their starting lineup in Hamilton. Despite lacking the same level of cohesion displayed in their previous games, Sweden proved to be too strong for their Argentine opponents.
The match remained fiercely contested for an hour until Sweden's superior quality came to the fore. Rebecka Blomqvist found the space she needed in the box to convert Sofia Jakobsson's cross from close range, putting Sweden in the lead.
Late in the game, Elin Rubensson calmly converted a penalty after Blomqvist was fouled in the box while Argentina was attempting to defend a free-kick. This second goal sealed the result, making it a 2-0 victory for Sweden.
Argentina's journey in the tournament ends with a last-place finish in the group, having earned only one point. Although they put up a valiant effort against Sweden, they were unable to break through their opponent's defense and achieve a historic milestone of winning a maiden match and progressing to the knockout rounds in a World Cup finals.
In the same group, South Africa secured their spot in the last 16 with a thrilling 3-2 triumph over Italy in a dramatic encounter in Wellington.
The stage is now set for Sweden and South Africa to compete in the knockout stages, promising further excitement and exhilarating matches in the Women's World Cup.
