Matildas versus Sweden: When are they playing? Where can I watch it? Your ultimate guide
Matildas versus Sweden: When are they playing? Where can I watch it? Your ultimate guide to the third-place Women’s World Cup playoff
The Matildas are potentially 90 minutes away from finishing third at a World Cup.
It is an achievement to be celebrated, but standing in their way are Sweden, who will be equally desperate to add the honour to their international football CV.
In their previous meeting, Australia won 4-0 in November last year thanks to a brace from Caitlin Foord.
Sam Kerr and Mary Fowler also found the back of the net in Melbourne.
WHEN AND WHERE IS THE MATCH BEING PLAYED?
Brisbane Stadium – normally known as Suncorp Stadium until FIFA had its name changed for the duration of the tournament. Kick-off is 6pm AEST on Saturday, August 19.
Sam Kerr and Caitlin Foord (right) will be key figures for the Matildas against Sweden in the World Cup playoff for third place in Brisbane on Saturday
Goalkeeper Zecira Musovic has been a standout for Sweden across the World Cup
HOW CAN I WATCH IT?
Coverage is on Channel 7 and Optus Sport as well as live sites across the country, including the Sydney Cricket Ground (gates open at 5.30pm) and AAMI Park in Melbourne. The action can also be viewed on the broadcaster’s streaming service, 7Plus.
Federation Square won’t be open due to poor behaviour from some supporters during the semi-final defeat against England earlier this week.
Adelaide’s Festival Plaza is an official FIFA live site, as is Canberra’s Garema Place, Brisbane’s South Bank Parklands and Perth’s Forrest Place.
HOW HARD WILL IT BE TO BEAT SWEDEN?
According to FIFA’s current world rankings, the Swedes sit in third spot, with the Matildas in 10th.
The Swedes lost 2-1 to Spain in their semi-final thanks to a stunning goal from the Europeans late in the match, but previous to that they beat Japan 2-1 in the quarter-finals and took a huge scalp when they defeated the USWNT on penalties in the round of 16.
In the group stages the Scandinavians handily beat Argentina and Italy after starting their Cup with a 2-1 win over South Africa.
It’s safe to say they go into the playoff as one of the form teams in the tournament, despite their heartbreaking loss to the Spaniards.
WHO ARE THE KEY PLAYERS FOR BOTH TEAMS?
No prizes for guessing who when it comes to Australia – captain and superstar striker Sam Kerr. Her combination with Caitlin Foord in the final third will be crucial.
Coach Tony Gustavsson may also call on his fringe players, with the likes of Emily van Egmond, Tameka Yallop, Cortnee Vine and Charli Grant all potential starters.
When it comes to Sweden, goalkeeper Zecira Musovic has been a tournament standout. Defensive midfield pairing Filippa Angeldal and Elin Rubensson will look to dictate the tempo from the opening whistle.
WILL THE MATILDAS BE FAVOURITES?
According to BetRight, no. Peter Gerhardsson’s team are paying $2.40 to win, with Australia the outsiders at $2.90, and a draw earning punters $3.40.
WHAT PRIZE MONEY IS UP FOR GRABS?
If the Matildas finish third at the World Cup, each player will receive $180,000 each.
DAILY MAIL AUSTRALIA’S FEARLESS PREDICTION:
Matildas 2-1 win, with goals from Sam Kerr and Hayley Raso.