Magda Eriksson returned to the Sweden starting 11 having missed Wednesday’s 3-0 victory over the USA. The Chelsea skipper joined Jonna Andersson in the Sweden backline who were up against the threat of Blues team-mate Kerr.
It was Sweden who dealt the first blow when they took the lead on 20 minutes through Fridolina Rolfo.
Kerr netted in Australia’s 2-1 victory against New Zealand on Wednesday, and she was at it again. The Blues striker got in behind her marker and headed past former Blues goalkeeper Hedvig Lindahl to equalise for Australia 10 minutes before the half-time break.
Minutes into the second half and Kerr struck again. The Matildas captain got free in the box and headed in from close-range to give her side a 2-1 lead.
Australia’s lead did not last long though as Sweden levelled through Lina Hurtig on 52 minutes and five minutes later Sweden took a 3-2 lead with Rolfo getting her second goal of the game.
Kerr had the opportunity to equalise moments later when Australia were awarded a penalty, but the Blues striker saw her spot-kick saved by Lindahl.
Australia were made to rue the missed opportunity as Sweden extended their lead with 10 minutes remaining to secure the victory and seal their place in the quarter-finals.