Sport News 24/7Sweden can freeze USA's progress
Women's Football
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12 September 2007 /
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Women's football expert Perfecseun looks ahead as pre-tournament favourites USA play a must-win match against Sweden
Sweden vs USA
We could very well see one of the favourites for this finals go out if the USA do not win this match. The Americans need to win this match to keep their hopes alive otherwise they will face a difficult match against Nigeria in their final group match knowing they need to win.
Sweden, on the other hand will have mixed feelings after failing to beat Nigeria but having a better start to their campaign this time round compared to the other appearances, when they failed to get a single point out of their opening two matches.
It is my opinion that America went into the match against Korea DPR underestimating the under-20 Women cup holders. There were 6 of the youngsters that took Korea to that title in their match against America and they played the USA like for like and were unfortunate not to win the match. The Americans have not done much coming into this tournament even if the team is a competitive one to get into because of the level of women´s football in the USA. There is always room for an upset when it comes to playing the former world champions and no better team to take advantage of that than Sweden.
The Swedes are hoping they can get as far as the finals and cause a surprise or two just like in 2003 when they finished runners-up to Germany. There is no element of the unknown about the Swedes anymore and they are much more experienced compared to when they played the USA during the group stage in 2003 and lost 3-1. There is more confidence about this team and given the setup of America against Korea, Sweden can very well win this match.
It seems a bit far fetched at the moment, but I will rather be against the USA. The Swedes have a good backline and their keeper is up to the task and good in the air which is crucial in women's football. There is room for an upset in this tournament and if the likes of Nigeria and Korea could spring one, then Sweden will fancy themselves to get revenge on the USA.
Suggested Bet: Lay USA to win the match and Back under 3.5 goals.
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