The Importance of Set Pieces: Sweden’s Dominance in the World Cup 2023
If ever there was a game of football to demonstrate the importance of set pieces, it was the match between Sweden and Italy in the World Cup 2023 group stage. On July 29th, in Wellington, Sweden showcased their prowess in set pieces, turning the game around and securing a 3-0 victory.
In the opening period of the game, Sweden struggled to find their footing against Italy’s unusual tactical approach. Italy’s coach, Milena Bertolini, employed a cross between a diamond midfield and a 4-2-3-1 formation, which caught Sweden off guard. Despite the initial confusion, Sweden managed to stabilize the game and offer more going forward.
However, it was through set pieces that Sweden ultimately secured their victory. Three out of their four goals came from right-wing, in-swinging corners delivered by left-back Jonna Andersson. Andersson’s expert crossing ability proved to be a game-changer for Sweden.
In the 39th minute, Andersson’s in-swinging corner found Amanda Ilestedt, who scored the first goal of the match. Just before halftime, Andersson attempted the same ball, and although Italy’s captain Barbara Bonansea challenged her, Fridolina Rolfo managed to tuck it away at the far post.
The pattern continued in the second half when Andersson delivered another corner towards Ilestedt, resulting in her second goal of the game. Italy struggled to cope with Sweden’s deliveries, highlighting the significance of set pieces in this World Cup.
In fact, in-swinging corners have become a prevalent pattern in women’s football. Data from Fbref.com using Opta data shows that women’s competitions feature a higher percentage of in-swinging corners compared to men’s competitions. This World Cup is no exception, with Sweden and Australia favoring in-swinging corners in their gameplay.
The focus on in-swinging deliveries in the women’s game exploits the height disadvantage of goalkeepers and their inability to cover the entire goal and claim balls in the six-yard box. Italy’s goalkeeper, Francesca Durante, listed at 5ft 11in (1.81m), struggled to deal with Sweden’s aerial threat, despite her above-average height for goalkeepers.
Sweden’s aerial ability extends beyond traditional positions such as center-back and center-forward. Players like left-winger Fridolina Rolfo and right-back Nathalie Bjorn contribute to Sweden’s formidable presence in the air. Manager Peter Gerhardsson emphasizes set play practice and exploits the opposition’s weaknesses in this area.
Gerhardsson’s decision to choose Zecira Musovic over Jennifer Falk in goal also played a role in Sweden’s dominance. Musovic may not be a better shot-stopper than Falk but her physical presence inside the six-yard box prevents her from being dominated by opponents.
In the end, Sweden emerged victorious with a 5-0 win, with Rebecka Blomqvist scoring the final goal on a counter-attack from an Italy corner. The out-swinging corner was an anomaly in a tournament dominated by in-swinging corners, highlighting Italy’s struggle to adapt.
Set pieces have proven to be a crucial aspect of the game, especially in women’s football. Sweden’s success in utilizing in-swinging corners showcases the importance of strategic planning and exploiting the opposition’s weaknesses. As the World Cup 2023 progresses, teams will continue to rely on set pieces to gain an advantage and secure victories.
(Photo by Catherine Ivill/Getty Images)