Bardsley backs stubborn Swedes to sink Spain

Karen Bardsley has tipped Sweden to pull off a third straight Women's World Cup upset in their semi-final showdown with Spain. 

Peter Gerhardsson's side have already dumped out reigning champions USA and well-fancied Japan on their way to the final four Down Under.

And they will once again play the role of underdogs on Tuesday against the silky Spaniards, who thrashed Switzerland and edged past the Netherlands in their previous two outings.

But while many fancy La Roja to now seal a first world crown, ex-England stopper Bardsley believes another shock could be in store.

Speaking exclusively to LiveScore, the 38-year-old said: "Sweden are efficient and pragmatic. They look at each individual opponent and work out a way to beat them.

"There's not much consistency to their approach, they just do what they need to do to get the win. 

"They are so dogged defensively and stingy in midfield, which helps them disrupt an opponent's rhythm — something Spain are really reliant on.

"If I did have to pick a winner, I can just see the Swedes frustrating Spain and finding a way through."

Clash of styles

Both nations are looking to rule the world for the first time with Sweden losing an agonsing 2003 final to Germany via a golden goal.

And though the Spaniards have never reached the showpiece, Bardsley expects them to dominate the ball in tomorrow's encounter.

The ex-Manchester City stopper said: "It's an interesting clash because these are two teams with completely different playing styles.

"Spain will be excited about this game given how possession-orientated they are. They have so many threats going forward — on the run, out wide, in central areas.

"They have such a strong midfield with the likes of Aitana Bonmati, Teresa Abelleira, Mariona Caldentey. They'll back themselves to find a way through.

"But with this Sweden team, there are no egos. They just do a job for the team and their goalkeeper Zecira Musovic is having the tournament of her life.

"They've already beaten some of the top nations and that should fill them with confidence."

Karen Bardsley is part of BBC Sport’s World Cup punditry team. Follow both semi-finals and the final across BBC TV, iPlayer, Sounds and the BBC Sport website and app.