BRISBANE, Australia (AP) — Sweden won yet another bronze medal at the Women’s World Cup, with Fridolina Rolfo and Kosovare Asllani scoring Saturday in a clinical 2-0 win over tournament co-host Australia.
The Swedes proved once again they're tough to beat after a semifinal loss, extending their perfect record in third-place matches to four with the victory in Brisbane.
It was a disappointing finish for the Matildas, who captivated the host nation during a run to the semifinals for the first time.
The tournament has set attendance records, had packed fan zones around the country, and two of Australia's matches became the most-watched programs on domestic commercial TV in 20 years.
Ultimately, it ended with back-to-back losses.
Rolfo converted from the penalty spot with a low, curling left-foot shot in the 30th minute after Australian defender Clare Hunt was penalized after a VAR review after tripping up Stina Blackstenius.
Asllani’s well-timed strike to finish off a long-range Swedish counterattack in the 62nd sealed the win.
European champion England and Spain are meeting in the final in Sydney on Sunday.
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AP World Cup coverage: https://apnews.com/hub/fifa-womens-world-cup
