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The Scout: Women’s World Cup Matchday 2

Posted on | Posted by The Scout

Group B – Nigeria v Canada

Reigning Olympic Champions Canada will be aiming to get out of the group, with Christine Sinclair looking to add to her 190 international goals at the ripe old age of 40. Adriana Leon and Jordyn Huitema should complete a potentially very potent front three.

On the other side, forward Asisat Oshoala could be a matchwinner for Nigeria and is coming off a 27-goal season for Barcelona. Rasheedat Ajibade (Atletico Madrid), Esther Okoronkwo (Saint-Etienne), and Ashleigh Plumptre (Leicester City) are also worth keeping an eye on but their biggest issue could be off the pitch – rumours of unrest in the camp and the possible departure of coach Randy Waldrum just before the tournament have clouded preparations.

Draw @ $4.50*

Group A – Philippines v Switzerland

Australian coach Alen Stajcic has done remarkable things to get Philippines to the World Cup for the first time. Half the squad are amateurs, and few were born in the Philippines, but all have come together proudly under the flag. Relatively new addition Angie Beard will be crucial in defence alongside Hali Ling, while Sarina Bolden and Carleigh Frilles will be used in attack.

The Swiss, meanwhile, are winless in their last seven games so will be desperate to get off to a good start. Barcelona’s Ana-Maria Crnogorcevic and Lia Walti of Arsenal are two big name players who will be expected to drive the team forward. They should have enough firepower to comfortable overcome their lower ranked opponents.

Switzerland to win @ $1.22*

Spain v Costa Rica

Spain are unbackable favourites for their opening game, and head into it on a run of six consecutive victories. Key midfielder Alexia Putellas has returned from an ACL injury and experienced striker Jennifer Hermoso is likely to lead the line up front. Despite several absentees due to a protest over conditions in the national team, Spain still boast a strong squad.

Costa Rica picked up a point against the Spaniards when the two sides met in the 2015 group stage, and they will need to show similar resilience to get anything out of this one. Katherine Alvardo’s experience will be important, and Raquel Rodriguez averages better than a goal every two games at international level with 55 to her name in 100 appearances.

Spain to win @ $1.01*

Multi

  1. Nigeria v Canada – DRAW
  2. Philippines v Switzerland – Over 2.5 Total Goals
  3. Spain to win both halves

     @ $9.17*

*Odds correct as at 9am, 21st July 2023.

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