Sweden Hand Banyana A Lifeline

Sweden thrashed Italy 5-0 at the FIFA Women’s World Cup, giving Banyana a chance to qualify for the knockout stages but they must beat Italy themselves.

The Swedes, who only beat a resilient Banyana thanks to a late goal in their Group G opener, were ruthless against Italy.

Goals by Amanda Ilestedt (2), Fridolina Rolfo, Stina Blackstenius und Rebecka Blomqvist sealed the tie for the world number 3.

As a consequence, Sweden moved to six points on the log, while Italy stayed on three following their 1-0 opening day win vs Argentina.

South Africa and Argentina are on one point after their 2-2 draw on Friday, meaning should Banyana beat Italy – which would be their first-ever win at a Women’s World Cup – they have a great chance of qualifying for the last 16 (unless Argentina would also beat Sweden by a bigger margin).

Anything less than a win, though, would would see Desiree Ellis and her team having to bag their bags.