Sweden, which confirmed first place in Group G on Wednesday, will face the United States, double title holders, in the clash of the knockout stages of the Women’s World Cup next Sunday.
The Scandinavians had already qualified for the knockout phase, before their victory against Argentina (2-0) in Hamilton.
The second ticket went to South Africa, who overthrew Italy (3-2) in added time, in Wellington.
This is the first qualification for the “Banyana Banyana”, in two participations. They will meet the Netherlands next Sunday.
The first place looks like a poisoned gift for Sweden, third world nation in the Fifa ranking, which inherits the Americans, first, in the next round, also scheduled for Sunday.
Team USA had a mixed group stage, with one win and two draws, which cast doubt on their goal of achieving an unprecedented treble.
But star Megan Rapinoe’s teammates haven’t lost a World Cup match since the 2011 edition.
Sweden, regularly placed but never a winner, dreams of breaking its glass ceiling in a major competition, where it accumulates heartbreaking defeats.
With a revamped team, the selection coached by Peter Gerhardsson signed a full box (three wins out of three) that only Japan and England achieved in the tournament.
Rebecka Blomqvist (66th) and Elin Rubensson (90th from the penalty spot) scored the two goals in a tough match, which the Argentines failed to pack, despite the prospect of possible qualification if successful.
The South Americans, 28th in the FIFA rankings, fail for the fourth time in as many appearances. They have no victories in the competition (3 draws, 9 defeats).
South Africa, reigning African champions, achieved a feat against Italy, favorites for qualification.
Led in the score, they went back in front thanks to Benedetta Orsi (32nd against his side) and Hildah Magaia (67th) before the equalizer from Arianna Caruso (74th).
Thembi Kgatlana (90th 2) allowed her teammates to snatch a historic qualification, at the expense of the Italians, eliminated.
