Matildas v Sweden: When do they play? Where can I watch it? Your ultimate guide to third place in the Women’s World Cup qualifiers
The Matildas are potentially 90 minutes away from finishing third in a World Cup.
It’s a feat worth celebrating, but Sweden stands in their way, who will be equally desperate to add the honor to their international football CV.
In their previous meeting, Australia won 4-0 last November thanks to a brace from Caitlin Foord.
Sam Kerr and Mary Fowler also found the back of the net in Melbourne.
WHEN AND WHERE DOES THE MATCH TAKE PLACE?
Brisbane Stadium – normally known as Suncorp Stadium until FIFA changed its name for the duration of the tournament. Kick-off is at 6 p.m. AEST on Saturday, August 19.
Sam Kerr and Caitlin Foord (right) will be key figures for the Matildas against Sweden in the World Cup qualifier for third place in Brisbane on Saturday
Goalkeeper Zecira Musovic stood out for Sweden throughout the World Cup
HOW CAN I WATCH IT?
Coverage is on Channel 7 and Optus Sport as well as live venues across the country including the Sydney Cricket Ground (gates open 5.30pm) and AAMI Park in Melbourne. The action can also be viewed on the broadcaster’s streaming service, 7Plus.
Federation Square will not be open due to the poor behavior of some fans during the semi-final loss to England earlier this week.
Festival Plaza in Adelaide is an official FIFA site, as are Garema Place in Canberra, South Bank Parklands in Brisbane and Forrest Place in Perth.
WILL IT BE DIFFICULT TO BEAT SWEDEN?
According to the current FIFA World Rankings, the Swedes are in third place and the Matildas in 10th.
The Swedes lost 2-1 to Spain in the semi-finals thanks to a superb late goal from the Europeans, but before that they beat Japan 2-1 in the quarter-finals and took a huge scalp in beating the USWNT on penalties in the Round of 16.
In the group stages, the Scandinavians easily beat Argentina and Italy after starting their Cup with a 2-1 victory over South Africa.
It’s safe to say that they enter the playoffs as one of the tournament’s in-form sides, despite their heartbreaking loss to the Spaniards.
WHO ARE THE KEY PLAYERS FOR BOTH TEAMS?
No prizes for guessing who when it comes to Australia – superstar captain and striker Sam Kerr. His combination with Caitlin Foord in the final third will be crucial.
Coach Tony Gustavsson can also bring in his fringe players, like Emily van Egmond, Tameka Yallop, Cortnee Vine and Charli Grant, all potential starters.
As for Sweden, goalkeeper Zecira Musovic stood out from the tournament. Defensive midfielders Filippa Angeldal and Elin Rubensson will look to dictate the tempo from the first whistle.
WILL MATILDAS BE FAVOURITE?
According to BetRight, No. Peter Gerhardsson’s side pay $2.40 to win, with Australia being the underdog at $2.90 and a draw earning bettors $3.40.
WHAT CASH PRIZE IS IT TO WIN?
If the Matildas finish third at the World Cup, each player will receive $180,000 each.
DAILY MAIL AUSTRALIA’S FEARLESS PREDICTION:
Matildas win 2-1, with goals from Sam Kerr and Hayley Raso.
