Sweden dramatically eliminated FIFA Women’s World Cup holders USA on penalties, while the Netherlands saw off South Africa 2-0.
Sweden will go up against Japan in the quarter-finals, following a dramatic penalty shoot-out over holders USA.
Lindsey Horan headed against the Swedish crossbar in the first half, as the US started to get on top.
Alyssa Naeher charged down Sofia Jacobsson’s strike with five minutes left of the ninety, before Zećira Mušović turned away an Alex Morgan header.
In extra time Musovic saved well to push Lynn Williams’ shot away from immediate danger, as the game remained goalless and a shoot-out was required.
Those penalties were extended to sudden death, Lina Hurtig’s proving decisive after a check that the ball had crossed the line.
The Netherlands defeated South Africa 2-0 in front of over 40,000 in Sydney, to set up a quarter final with Spain on Friday (2am UK time).
Lieke Martens had seen her effort cleared off the line, before Jill Roord headed home for the Dutch.
Daphne van Domselaar was forced into a number of saves from Thembi Kgatlana, to keep her side in front.
Then in the second half, Lineth Beerensteyn’s shot was not dealt with by keeper Kaylin Swart and the advantage was doubled.
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