Sweden’s Set Pieces Secure Dominant Victory Over Italy in World Cup 2023 Group Stage
In a thrilling display of the importance of set pieces, Sweden secured a resounding victory over Italy in the World Cup 2023 group stage. The match, held on July 29th in Wellington, showcased Sweden’s prowess from set plays and highlighted the impact they can have on the outcome of a game.
Despite a shaky start, Sweden found themselves leading 3-0 at halftime, effectively solidifying their position at the top of Group G. The difference-maker for Sweden was their execution of set pieces, which proved to be Italy’s downfall.
Italy’s coach, Milena Bertolini, employed a unique tactical approach that left Sweden’s defense flummoxed. Utilizing a hybrid formation that blended a diamond midfield with a 4-2-3-1 setup, Italy’s unorthodox strategy initially dominated Sweden. Giulia Dragoni operated as a No 10, left-back Lisa Boattin pushed high to allow Barbara Bonansea to join as a second striker, and Sofia Cantore played a hybrid role as a center midfielder on the right without possession and a touchline-hugging right winger in possession.
Sweden struggled to contain Italy’s attacks, leading to impromptu adjustments and tactical discussions on the pitch. However, Sweden managed to stabilize the game and began to push forward with Stina Blackstenius using her speed to exploit the channels.
Crucially, it was Sweden’s set pieces that ultimately secured their victory. Three of their four goals came from the same source – in-swinging corners from the left boot of left-back Jonna Andersson. Andersson’s expert crossing ability proved instrumental in Sweden’s success.
The first goal came in the 39th minute when Andersson’s high, looping corner found Amanda Ilestedt, who scored with a well-placed header. Just five minutes later, Andersson delivered an identical corner towards Ilestedt, but this time it was deflected by Italy captain Bonansea and fell for Fridolina Rolfo to score at the far post.
Sweden managed to score from open play just before halftime, with Blackstenius finding the back of the net. However, the pattern continued in the second half when Andersson’s corner towards Ilestedt resulted in another headed goal, securing her second goal of the game and third of the tournament.
Italy struggled to cope with Sweden’s set-piece deliveries, highlighting the prominence of in-swinging corners in the Women’s World Cup 2023. Sweden’s corner kicks have been consistently in-swinging, further emphasizing the impact of this tactic. Australia, another strong contender in the tournament, also favors in-swinging corners.
The prevalence of in-swinging corners in women’s football is thought to exploit the height and positioning limitations of goalkeepers. Italy goalkeeper Francesca Durante, listed at 5ft 11in (1.81m), struggled to handle Sweden’s deliveries, despite being above the average height for goalkeepers in the competition.
Sweden’s aerial ability extends beyond traditional positions, with players like Rolfo and right-back Nathalie Bjorn proving to be threats in the air. Manager Peter Gerhardsson places considerable emphasis on set-piece training and analyzing opponents’ vulnerabilities to exploit them.
The match ended in a convincing 5-0 victory for Sweden, with Rebecka Blomqvist scoring the final goal on a counter-attack, directly from an Italy corner. The corner itself was an unfashionable out-swinger, deviating from the prevailing trend of in-swinging corners.
Sweden’s dominant display against Italy serves as a powerful reminder of the significance of set pieces in modern football. As the Women’s World Cup 2023 progresses, teams will continue to rely on tactical execution and expertise in set plays to gain an edge over their opponents.