Everton players Nathalie Björn and Anna Anvegård fell just short of gold at the Olympic Games final after Sweden lost out on penalties to Canada.

Both nations went through all of the emotions from the first whistle to the final spot-kick.

Björn started the match in the centre of defence with Anvegård named on the bench.

It was a brilliant start for Sweden who looked confident in the first half as they took the lead after Stina Blackstenius struck home after 34 minutes.

That confidence continued in the second half but Sweden were unable to finish their chances and challenge the Canada goalkeeper with on-target efforts.

Ultimately, the missed opportunities came back to haunt Sweden as the Canadians were awarded a spot kick after a VAR review on a challenge on Christine Sinclair from Amanda Ilestedt.

Jessie Fleming stepped up and shot the ball into the bottom left-corner with the Swedish keeper diving the opposite way to level the game after 67 minutes.

Two minutes later Canada could have had their second after Hedvig Lindahl charged off her goal-line but Björn was there to head the shot away from the goal.

Nothing could separate the two sides after the 90 minutes as the two nations entered extra-time.

Anvegård made her way off the bench and almost proved national hero when her she shot from close range was saved on the line during a frenzy of chances towards the Canada goal.

An additional 30 minutes couldn’t separate the finalists and the gold medallists were to be decided on spot kicks.

Björn stepped up and scored the second penalty after Sweden’s first connected with the post.

Anvegård stepped up for Sweden’s fourth spot kick, but her effort was saved by the Canadian keeper along the left side of goal.

The shootout finished 3-2 in Canada’s favour after six spot-kicks each.

Disappointment for Sweden but a strong tournament for Everton’s new signings who should have their heads held high for a good tournament.

The Swedish pair will meet their new teammates later this month ahead of our Barclays FA Women’s Super League opening match against Manchester City in September.