Sports

The Scout: Women’s World Cup Matchday 12

Group C – Japan v Spain

Both sides have already qualified for the knockout stage but will be eager to take out top spot in the group. Shiori Miyake came into the Japanese defence against Costa Rica and should retain her place, while a strong forward line of Mina Tanaka, Hikaru Naomoto and Aoba Fujino could prove dangerous once again.

Spain welcomed Alexia Putellas back to the starting team following her anterior cruciate ligament injury and she showed her class against Zambia. Coach Jorge Vilda understands winning is a habit, and his side will be looking to make it eight on the bounce.

Spain to win @ $1.90*


Group C – Costa Rica v Zambia

There’s pride on the line for Costa Rica who will be heading home after this final group game. Gloriana Villalobos could come back into the team, and they are expected to continue with a front two of Priscilla Chinchilla and Maria Salas. Sitting 41 places above their opponents in the rankings, this represents a good chance for Costa Rica to win their first World Cup game.

Zambia have conceded ten goals in their two games and sit bottom of the group. Catherine Musonda will likely return in goal having served her suspension for a red card against Japan. Avell Chitundu has been used as a substitute in both fixtures so may finally be rewarded with a starting spot.

Draw @ $3.75*


Group B – Canada v Australia

Olympic Champions Canada came from a goal down to beat Ireland, thanks in large part to a triple substitution at half time. Christine Sinclair, Shelina Zadorsky, and Sophie Schmidt all contributed to the win and could force themselves in the team. A point will be enough for Canada to make the last 16.

Australia must get three points and could welcome Sam Kerr back into the fold. It’s unlikely that the star striker will start the contest following her calf troubles, but she could be a big presence off the bench. Mary Fowler should return after missing the Nigeria game, while Alex Chidiac is pushing for a place in the starting line-up.

Draw @ $3.30*


Group B – Republic of Ireland v Nigeria

With no possibility of making the knockout stage, Ireland will look to finish on a high with their first points in a Women’s World Cup. Coach Vera Pauw may opt to use the game to get some tournament experience into a few fringe players. Heather Payne is unlikely to return from injury, but Louise Quinn is expected to play having recovered from a knock and a black eye.

Nigeria shocked the home crowd with a come-from-behind win over Australia. Asisat Oshoala was surprisingly left on the bench but scored what proved to be the winning goal following her introduction. Deborah Abiodun is available for selection having served a one-match suspension.

Nigeria to win @ $2.20*


Multi

  1. Spain – Win
  2. Costa Rica v Zambia – Over 1.5 Total Goals
  3. Canada v Australia – Both teams to score
  4. Nigeria – Win

     @ 9.78*

*Odds correct as at 9am, 31st July 2023.

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