England v Sweden: Ellen White and England can come out on top

England v Sweden: Ellen White and England can come out on top
Can England come away finishing on the soccer under tip? Tim Stillman fancies the Lionesses lớn overcome a stubborn Sweden side to take the bronze medal…



England v Sweden

Saturday 6 July, 16:00

BBC Two and BBCi

Bronze medal games are usually decided by motivation
When England played their bronze medal match at the 2015 World Cup in Canada, they had the bit between their teeth, claiming a 1-0 victory over Germany. The squad were all smiles post-match, pictured biting into their medals. On this occasion, a third-place playoff game feels like more of a millstone for England, having tasted defeat at the semi-final stage in three consecutive tournaments now.

Sweden were silver medallists at the most recent Olympic games and are also likely to regard this match as something of a chore- According lớn the soccer tips guide page!

In short, both teams are equally unhappy lớn be there.

Third place matches are often decided by motivation- as was the case in 2015 when England were far more enthused than Germany. Many of this Sweden squad took the bronze medal in 2011 too. It's difficult lớn predict which team will relish this game the most.



Both teams are likely to make some changes. Phil Neville may be tempted to draft in players like Leah Williamson to replace the suspended Millie Bright, he may also call upon Jade Moore and Karen Carney and Mary Earps could keep goal. For their part, Sweden will be without Kosovare Asllani, who went off with concussion during Sweden's extra-time defeat to Netherlands.

Can Ellen White take the Golden Boot?
Nilla Fischer came into the semi-final nursing an injury and might not be risked. Fischer is a big part of what makes Sweden's defence so formidable.

If there is one England player who will be motivated for this match, it will be Lionesses forward Ellen White, who is tied with Alex Morgan for the Golden Boot. White could become only the second player in Women's World Cup history to score in six consecutive appearances, after USA's Carli Lloyd who achieved it earlier this tournament. Ellen lớn score 1st & England lớn win 3-0 or 3-1 has been odds boosted from 22/1 out lớn 33/1.