Wellington, July 23 (IANS) Amanda Ilestedt's late winner helped Sweden beat South Africa 2-1 in Group G opener of the FIFA Women's World Cup at Wellington Regional Stadium, here on Sunday. Hildah Magaia's 48th-minute goal had South Africa on course for their first Women’s World Cup points, but goals from Fridolina Rolfo (65') and Ilestedt (90') secured a victory for third-ranked Swedes. With this win, Sweden became the first nation at this year's tournament to come from behind to claim all three points. Sweden ramped up the pressure with substitute Caroline Seger, who became the first woman from her nation to feature in five FIFA Women's World Cups, coming close to finding a winner in the 81st minute. Right at the death, it was Sweden that snatched all three points with Player of the Match Ilestedt rising to meet a well-delivered Kosovare Asllani's corner and sealed the win.

Source: The North Africa Journal July 23, 2023 10:45 UTC