The United States will likely play Sweden in their last-16 match after finishing second in their Women’s World Cup group.
Finishing as surprise runners-up of Group E, the USWNT will play the winners of Group G in the next round. And this will be the Swedes barring a mathematical and footballing miracle from occurring.
Vlatko Andonovski’s US side played out a 0-0 stalemate against Portugal to finish their group stage campaign on a dud note as they look to win their third consecutive World Cup.
Meanwhile, the Netherlands - losing finalists in 2019 - were far more convincing in the other Group E decider, routing Vietnam 7-0.
The US earlier in the tournament managed a 3-0 victory over Vietnam and came from behind to draw 1-1 with the Netherlands.
Who will the US play next in the World Cup 2023?
After finishing second in Group E, the US will play the winner of Group G.
Sweden have won both of their matches so far and will certainly advance.
They play their final match against Argentina on Wednesday. For the Swedes to not top their group, it would take Argentina to win by a huge scoreline and also for Italy to beat their opponents, South Africa by another big number.
This is because Sweden holds a three-point advantage over Italy but also has a superior goal difference of 10.
Sweden has impressed so far, beating South Africa 2-1 and Italy 5-0. It is likely they will also defeat Argentina to win their group.
This is what happens when teams finish level on points.
When will the US next play?
The likely USA vs Sweden encounter will be on Sunday, August 6 in Melbourne.
The winner between Sweden and the US will play the winner of Japan vs Norway - a game that will be played a day earlier on Saturday, August 5 in Wellington.
The potential quarter-final for USA could be on Friday, August 11 in Auckland.
