World Cup Full of Surprises Will Feature New Champion

Can Swedes continue riding their luck?

A Japanese player after the Sweden defeat. (Manny Otiko)

So far, the 2023 Women’s World Cup has been full of surprises. Soccer powers, such as the United States and Japan, both crashed out of the tournament, meaning that there will be a new champion.

Much has been written about the U.S.’ exit, mainly because they were expected to cruise to another title. However, they went out on penalties to Sweden in a game that the U.S. dominated.

Everything you need to know about the four 2023 Women's World Cup semifinalists | CNN

Surprise Sweden

However, the U.S.-Sweden game was a great example of how the best team in soccer doesn’t always win. Sweden played a counterattacking, defensive game that relies on absorbing their opponents’ attacks and then trying to get a goal at the other end. They were also aided by phenomenal goalkeeper Zećira Mušović, who made 11 saves.

Now, Sweden has defeated two past champions, the U.S. and Japan. Does that make them dark horses to win the tournament.?