Jackie Groenen’s extra-time strike sealed Netherlands place in the World Cup final. They defeated Sweden 1-0 after 120 minutes.

Netherlands boss Sarina Wiegman made one change for the semi-final with Lineth Beerensteyn getting the chance to finally prove herself from the start in place of Shanice van de Sanden.

The first half saw Netherlands begin slowly and the best chances fell to Sweden. Goalkeeper Sari van Veenendaal had to make a great stop to deny Stina Blackstenius and then got up to keep out the rebound.

Van Veendendal then ensured it went into the break 0-0 with a fine save with her foot to keep out Lina Hurtig’s effort.

At the break, Lieke Martens was forced off for Netherlands and was replaced by Jill Roord.

Sweden came to within inches of taking the lead with Nilla Fischer’s shot tipped onto the post by Van Veendendal. At the other end, Vivienne Miedema also saw a header tipped onto the bar.

After 71 minutes, van de Sanden came onto the pitch and she almost prevented extra-time but her shot from a tight angle was just tipped over the bar.

Netherlands took control from the start of extra-time and in the 99th minute, Jackie Groenen found space outside the box and the midfielder fired a low strike into the bottom corner.

Sweden pushed for an equaliser but the best chance fell to the Netherlands with van de Sanden racing in on goal but her finish was poor. That miss didn’t matter as Netherlands held on to book their place in the World Cup final.

On Sunday, Netherlands will face defending champions USA.




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