class=”article_teaser__2t5do”>Having run out 4-2 winners in the group stage encounter, Al Hain-Cole is backing Gerhardsson’s side to prove too strong for the Matildas once again
Australia will be hoping to progress to their first ever Olympic Games final when they take on Sweden at the Nissan Stadium on Monday.
The Matildas are making their tournament debut in the semi-finals, having pulled off an epic 4-3 extra-time victory over Great Britain in the last round.
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Australia vs Sweden latest odds
However, they are 17/4 (5.25) outsiders with bet365 to keep the run going by coming out on top against the reigning silver medallists.
Peter Gerhardsson’s side ran out 4-2 winners against this opposition in the group stages and are priced at 8/13 (1.62) to take their place in a second successive final with another victory.
Two of the last four encounters between this duo have resulted in draws, and you can get odds of 3/1 (4.00) on them taking this one into extra-time after another stalemate.
Australia vs Sweden team news
Sam Kerr is the player to watch for Tony Gustavsson’s team, having scored two of her five goals at this tournament in the 4-2 group stage defeat against this opposition.
Having been rested in the final group stage win over New Zealand, Stina Blackstenius returned to the line-up to find the net for the third match in three at this summer’s games – with four goals to her name in total.
Australia vs Sweden preview
Although they ended up on the losing side, Australia certainly didn’t disgrace themselves in the group stage encounter against this opposition – coming from behind to lead 2-1 in the second half and missing a penalty at 3-2 before losing 4-2.
After holding reigning champions USA to a draw and overcoming a heavily fancied Team GB since that game, they will certainly not be short of confidence coming into this clash.
However, the Blue and Yellow has been arguably the most impressive team at this tournament so far, winning four games from four and demonstrating an unerring ability to overcome any opposition.
Australia vs Sweden predictions
Clearly determined to go one better than the silver medal they picked up at Brazil 2016, the Swedes look like good value at 12/5 (3.40) to emerge victorious in a game that features goals at both ends.
All odds correct at time of writing. Please gamble responsibly.