Germany’s exit from the Women’s World Cup on Thursday was just the latest shock to take place in a thrilling opening phase of the competition in Australia and New Zealand. It just so happened, too, that the two-time champions were eliminated by South Korea in a stunning repeat of their male counterparts’ agony in 2018.
The Frauenteam’s departure means that three of the nations in the top 10 of the Fifa rankings have been sent packing from the group stage. Germany join Brazil and Canada as the big nations to feel the humiliation of an early exit.
However, these shocks have contributed to the entertainment value of the tournament as we have been treated to some eye-catching upsets over the past couple of weeks, making this one of the most entertaining World Cup finals on record.
There was Colombia’s 2-1 victory over Germany which secured the South America side a place in the round of 16, while Jamaica held both France and Brazil to goalless draws to reach the knockout stage for the first time in their history.
The same applies for Morocco, who have also made it to the round of 16 in their first appearance at a finals. Despite losing 6-0 to Germany, their victory over Colombia contributed to the group favourites’ downfall. South Africa booked their place in the last 16 thanks to their upset victory over Italy on the final matchday of Group G.
Record champions USA, the favourites to win their third successive crown, have not looked as terrifying as they have done throughout World Cup history, drawing two of their three group games to scrape into the last 16.
It has all made for a fascinating line-up to come in the opening knockout matches.
Saturday 5 August
Switzerland topped Group A but their lack of goal threat could be exposed against Spain, who have scored eight goals at the tournament so far. Alba Redondo has already scored twice for Spain and is 13/8 to score anytime against the Swiss.
There has been a lot to like about 2011 winners Japan so far. They are yet to concede a goal and they have beaten teans comfortably while playing an exciting style of football. Hinata Miyazawa is the leading scorer so far with four goals. She is 6/1 to score first.
Sunday 6 August
Finalists in 2019, the Netherlands have been excellent so far, topping Group E ahead of reigning champions USA. Jill Roord has scored three goals and she is 13/10 to score at any time against a side making their World Cup knockout debut.
Sweden head into this one in much better shape than the States. They picked up all nine points available in the group stage whereas USA have been below their best. Sweden have looked organised and well-drilled and there is a chance for a huge shock in this tie. Sweden to win and both teams to score is 13/2.
Monday 7 August
In England’s emphatic 6-1 win over China, Sarina Wiegman tweaked the system in a hugley uncharacteristic move. They cruised through as a result and Lauren James stole the show with two goals and three assists. She is priced at 11/1 to score two or more goals again.
Hosts Australia have not been as impressive at the World Cup so far. Star striker Sam Kerr’s absence has been huge but the Matildas have still navigated their way through, and she is reportedly going to be fit for this clash. Kerr is 6/4 to score against Denmark.
Tuesday 8 August
Colombia v Jamaica
Colombia pulled off an incredible upset over two-time champions Germany in the group stage and they came away as Group H winners with two victories from three games. Jamaica have made history by qualifying for the knockout stage at the World Cup for the very first time in their history.
France v Morocco
Group F winners France only dropped points against Jamaica in an impressive group stage campaign. Morocco are following in the footsteps of their male counterparts in making history at the World Cup. Their victory over Colombia and Germany’s draw with South Korea saw them qualify for the knockout stage in their debut finals campaign.
*18+ BeGamble Aware | Odds Courtesy Of Betfred
