The Women’s World Cup sees 64 matches over 32 days across two countries. The group stage has thrown up some potential blockbuster clashes, and here we look at five particular standouts
New Zealand v Norway- 20 July, Auckland
Where it all begins. While Auckland’s Eden Park is traditionally the home of the All Blacks, the stadium will host the opening match of this World Cup as co-hosts New Zealand take on 1995 winners Norway.
With Switzerland likely to provide stiff competition in this group, both sides will be keen to get off to a winning start and boost their chances of reaching the knockout stages- something which every host nation has done so far.
Denmark v China – 22nd July, Perth
After England have opened Group D against Haiti, the other two sides in the group face each other. In a similar vein to New Zealand and Norway, Denmark and China will see this game as crucial for their chances of getting out of the group.
Whilst Denmark will have the familiar names such as captain Pernille Harder and 176-cap midfielder Sanne Troelsgaard, China won the Asian Cup last year and only one place separates the two sides in the world rankings, so a close match is in prospect.
United States v Netherlands – 27th July, Wellington
The 2019 final saw Jill Ellis’ World champions United States take on Sarina Weigman’s European champions Netherlands. Fast forward four years and plenty has changed- with the only two facts remaining the case are the US’ status as World champions and the fact Weigman is manager of the European champions.
No side, male or female, has won three successive World Cups. Vlatko Andanovski’s side will be looking to change that and make more history. However, Andreis Jonker’s Dutch side will be looking for a measure of revenge for that loss in Lyon.
France v Brazil – 29th July, Brisbane
At any World Cup, Brazil is always a big draw, not least the legendary Marta, who will be looking to extend her record as the World Cup’s all-time leading goalscorer with her tally so far standing at 17.
Both sides are ranked in the top 10 and with France under hugely experienced coach Herve Renard and a seven match unbeaten run at the time of writing, Les Bleues will be a tough opponent for anyone. The runner-up of this group is likely to play Germany in the Round of 16.
Canada v Australia – 31st July, Melbourne
The final round of matches in Group B sees the co-hosts come up against the Olympic champions. The match will also see two of the best forwards in the game go head-to-head, Australia captain Sam Kerr and Canada legend Christine Sinclair.
Kerr has 63 goals in 120 games for her country and the headline name for the Matildas at this tournament. Sinclair meanwhile is the all-time leading goalscorer in international football history with 190 goals in a remarkable 323 games and will be looking to score at a sixth World Cup, which would be a new record.
Make sure to check out our Women’s World Cup guide for everything you need to know.
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