TOKYO: Sweden put on another impressive display to defeat Australia in the women’s football competition at Tokyo 2020, despite Sam Kerr scoring twice.

Chelsea striker Kerr also had a penalty saved, denying her a hat-trick, in the 4-2 defeat by Sweden, who beat the United States in their opener.

Meanwhile, Zambia captain Barbra Banda scored a second successive hat-trick as the African nation drew 4-4 with China.

Wang Shuang scored all four for China, who had Li Qingtong sent off.

Kerr’s goals for Australia meant she became the highest scorer for the Matildas in Olympic Games history.

But Sweden’s second victory moved them top of their group, booking their place in the knockout stages with a game to spare, as strong contenders to win gold.

In a frantic encounter between Zambia and China, the African debutants came from 3-1 down before leading 4-3 with six minutes to go.

Wang then equalised before centre-back Li was shown a straight red card for denying Banda a clear goalscoring opportunity.

An eventful match featured two penalties, while an earlier China goal was disallowed by the video assistant referee for offside.

Both teams had lost their opening games.

Elsewhere, European champions Netherlands drew 3-3 with Brazil as Arsenal striker Vivianne Miedema scored twice before going off injured late on.

Brazilian legend Marta scored her third goal of the tournament and moved to within one of compatriot Cristiane’s all-time goalscoring record at the Games.

Manchester City forward Janine Beckie scored twice for Canada as they beat Chile 2-1.

It means Canada sit two points below Great Britain who beat Japan 1-0  with another goal from Ellen White to ensure progress to the quarter-finals with their second victory and with a game to spare.

World champions United States bounced back from their opening day defeat by Sweden with a 6-1 rout of New Zealand.

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