Sweden were looking to solidify their position at the top of Group G following their 2-1 win over South Africa and they did it in a dominating fashion against Italy.
Le Azzurre looked the most threatening in the opening minutes, maintaining strong spells of possession while Sweden tried to find their feet in New Zealand’s capital, Wellington.
Sweden took the lead in the 39th minute through an Amanda Ilestedt header. And from there Italy’s concentration continued to slip on the brink of half-time as Sweden’s their strength at set pieces.
A corner kick flicked to the back post was converted by Fridolina Rolfo five minutes later.
Stina Blackstenius extended Sweden’s lead in added time, with Angeldahl involved in the quick passing movement in the lead-up to the goal.
And Sweden showed no signs of slowing down as Ilestedt headed in another corner kick five minutes into the second 45.
Italy struggled to test Sweden’s goalkeeper Zecira Musovic in the remainder of the second half. The former did try to find a consolation, but instead allowed Sweden to add another to their tally.
In the fifth minute of added time, Italy’s defensive line were caught out extremely high up the pitch. This allowed substitute Rebecka Blomqvist to carry the ball 40 yards before passing it under Italy’s keeper and into the back of the net.
Angeldahl and her Swedish team mates will face either the United States, the Netherlands or Portugal in the knockout stage.
But before that, they must play their final group game against Argentina on Wednesday 2 August at 08:00 (UK).
Also featuring in Saturday’s group games, Khadija ‘Bunny’ Shaw’s Jamaica faced Panama.
The City striker was unavailable for selection after receiving two yellow cards in their 0-0 draw to France in their opening game.
Jamaica were able to have a positive performance without their captain, beating Panama 1-0 and still in with a chance of qualifying for the knockout stages.
A draw against Brazil in their final group game would be enough for them to progress, with Shaw available for selection after serving her suspension.
