Sweden odds-on for Japan tie

Sweden are favourites to make it to the World Cup final now after an impressive 3-1 quarter final win over Australia.

Next up for Thomas Dennerby’s side is Japan, who they have not beaten in their last three attempts.

Indeed, before a 1-1 draw last time out, Japan secure a 1-0 and 2-1 victory over their rivals and as such, Norio Sasaki’s side will be confident of pulling off an upset.

And an upset it would be as the betting market has Sweden down as 23/20 favourites to win the match, while Japan are priced at 23/10 and the draw offers odds of 11/5.

If Japan are to keep up their impressive record against the Swedes then Lisa Dahlkvist is likely to be singled out for attention.

The 24-year-old striker netted against Australia last time out and now has three goals to her name in the competition.

Lotta Schelin is also likely to be seen as a threat after setting up two of her side’s goals during the tournament thus far.

While Japan are seen as slight underdogs for this tie, Sasaki is unlikely to be undeterred with Homare Sawa and Aya Miyama in the Japanese squad.

Sawa has hit an impressive three goals from midfield, while Miyama has two assists to her name so far.

Football betting enthusiasts looking to place wagers on the Women’s World Cup semi finals could also be tempted by the odds available on the final score.

A repeat of the 1-1 draw that the sides played out in their last clash is priced at 25/4, while a 2-1 win for Japan sees odds of 21/2.

A narrower winning margin is also available; with odds of 17/2 up for grabs on a 1-0 win for Sasaki’s side.

However, with Sweden seen as favourites to progress to the final, where they are likely to meet the USA – setting up an awkward clash for Swedish USA manager Pia Sundhage – the 27/24 odds on a win for Dennerby’s side could attract a lot of action.