Spain face Sweden in the first Women’s World Cup semi-final on Tuesday as both nations go in search of their first tournament crown.
Sweden produced their best performance of the World Cup to defeat Japan 2-1 in the quarter-finals, knocking out the team of the tournament with a display of high-tempo pressing while continuing to take their chances at set-pieces.
Centre-back Amanda Ilestedt is Sweden’s top-scorer with four goals so far, with the defender in the race for the World Cup golden boot.
- Follow LIVE: Spain face Sweden in Women’s World Cup semi-final
Spain required Salma Paralluelo’s extra-time goal to defeat Netherlands and have navigated a player mutiny under head coach Jorge Vilda to reach their first ever World Cup semi-final.
The winner will play either England or Australia in Sunday’s World Cup final. Here’s everything you need to know.
When is Spain vs Sweden?
The first World Cup semi-final kicks off at 9am BST on Wednesday 15 August at Eden Park, Auckland.
How can I watch it?
It will be shown live on BBC One and the BBC iPlayer, with coverage starting from 8:30am.
What is the team news?
Alexia Putellas returns for Spain as Jorge Vilda makes two changes from the team that started against the Netherlands. The two-time Ballon d’Or winner replaces forward Esther Gonzalaz, which will see Jenni Hermoso pushed into the No 9 position. Olga Carmona replaces the suspended Oihane Hernández, which could see Ona Batlle moved to right back.
Sweden are unchanged from their quarter-final win against Japan.
Spain: Coll; Batlle, Parades , Codina, Carmona; Teresa, Bonmati, Putellas; Redondo, Hermoso, Mariona
Sweden: Musovic; Bjorn, Ilestedt, Eriksson, Andersson; Angeldahl, Rubensson; Kaneryd, Asllani, Rolfo; Blackstenius
How did both teams reach the semi-finals?
Spain (runners-up Group C)
- 3-0 vs Costa Rica
- 5-0 vs Zambia
- 0-4 vs Japan
- 5-1 vs Switzerland
- 2-1 vs Netherlands (after extra time)
Sweden (Winners Group G)
- 2-1 vs South Africa
- 5-0 vs Italy
- 2-0 vs Argentina
- 0-0 vs United States (Won 5-4 on penalties)
- 2-1 vs Japan
