Rohlin heads Sweden into World Cup

An extra-time header from Charlotte Rohlin earned Sweden a place in the 2011 FIFA Women's World Cup at the expense of Denmark.

Trailing 2-1 after the first leg of the play-off tie, Denmark put themselves ahead on aggregate when Johanna Rasmussen and Cathrine Paaske-Sørensen struck in quick succession before half-time. Sweden reshuffled after the break and made the breakthrough which forced extra time on 73 minutes, Rohlin nodding in Kosovare Asslani's cross. Buoyed by their reprieve, Sweden struck a decisive second on 94 minutes, Rohlin this time heading in Sara Thunebro's set piece.

Sweden coach Thomas Dennerby was understandably relieved having watched his team fall behind in the tie in the first half. "Right now I'm so relieved," he said. "This was our goal and now we've qualified for next year's World Cup in Germany. We looked troubled at the start but slowly we took the initiative and in the second half we dominated."

Rohlin added: "I'm so happy, lost for words. The last two days we practiced corners and free-kicks and it's paid off." Sweden go into the final tournament draw on 29 November and will compete in Germany from 26 June to 17 July 2011.

Denmark's hopes of qualifying are not over, however, as one place remains in the UEFA-CONCACAF play-offs. In order to earn a two-legged tie against the third-ranked side from North and Central America, they must come through two more play-offs, the first of which will be against Switzerland on 2/3 and 6/7 October.