It was proper humiliation as Sweden walloped Italy 5-0 in a 2023 FIFA Women’s World Cup Group G match at the Wellington Regional Stadium in New Zealand on Saturday.
The Italians promised much until six minutes before the half-time break when Amanda Ilestedt headed in from Jonna Anderson’s corner to give Sweden the lead. Five minutes later, the Swedes increased their lead through Fridolina Rolfo after yet another set-piece.
Stina Blackstenius made things more difficult for Le Azzurre as she scored Sweden’s third goal on the stroke of half-time.
The 30-year-old Ilestedt, who plays for Arsenal in England, completed her brace when she jumped high and headed in from another set-piece to make it 4-0 in the 50th minute.
Second half substitute Rebecka Blomqvist made a solo dash to score Sweden’s fifth goal in referee’s added time.
