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2023 FIFA Women’s World Cup: 5 Teams to Watch Out for
The 2023 FIFA Women’s World Cup is underway, captivating football fans around the globe with its incredible talent and competition. As the top teams battle it out for glory, five nations stand out as strong contenders for the title.
While the group stage is soon to conclude, in this article, we take a closer look at these five teams that should be closely watched during the tournament, highlighting their key players, playing styles, and recent performances.
1. United States
The reigning champions, the United States Women’s National Team (USWNT), entered the 2023 World Cup with immense confidence. While the absence of a commanding defender Becky Sauerbrunn would give the team significant impact, the team still comes strong, led by world-class forward Alex Morgan, skilled midfielder Rose Lavelle, the USWNT boasts a star-studded lineup.
Their trademark physicality, exceptional dribbling, and organised defence make them a formidable force on the field. Coached by Vlatko Andonovski, the team’s focus on relentless pressing and swift counter-attacks often puts their opponents on the backfoot.
The squad advanced to the knock-out stage as the second position after its group rival, the Netherlands. Having secured a stunning victory in the 2019 World Cup, the USWNT is determined to defend their title and continue their legacy as one of the greatest women’s football teams of all time.
2. Japan
Japan’s women’s national team, led by experienced midfielder Saki Kumagai and creative playmaker Yui Hasegawa, continues to showcase their technical brilliance and quick passing game. Under the guidance of head coach Futoshi Ikeda, Japan’s focus on ball control and intelligent movement allows them to dominate possession and create goal-scoring opportunities. Their disciplined approach to defending and cohesive team play make them a tough opponent for any team.
After lifting the World Cup trophy in 2011 and displaying consistent excellence in international competitions, Japan’s blend of experience and promising young talent makes them a formidable force in the 2023 World Cup. After glorious wins in the group stage, they are currently the 4th favourite in local Japanese bookmakers and we won’t be surprised to see them competing in the final.
3. The Netherlands
The Netherlands’ women’s national team has been on an upward trajectory in recent years. With a thrilling blend of attacking talent and solid defensive organisation, the Dutch team clinched the European Championship in 2017.
Led by prolific and skilful midfielder Danielle van de Donk, the team showed us a strong advancement to the knockout stage. Under the guidance of coach Andries Jonker, they emphasise creative and attacking football while maintaining defensive solidity. With a youthful and dynamic squad, the Netherlands aims to build on their previous successes and challenge for the World Cup title in 2023.
4. Germany
Germany, a powerhouse in women’s football, boasts an experienced squad led by prolific striker Alexandra Popp, and solid defender Kathrin Hendrich. Coached by Martina Voss-Tecklenburg, the German team is known for their technical precision and disciplined tactics.
Their focus on ball possession and intelligent off-the-ball movements allows them to control the pace of the game. Additionally, their well-organised defence and efficient set-piece execution often prove critical in challenging matches.
While the Colombian squads come strong against them, with a rich history of success in major tournaments, including two World Cup titles, Germany’s determination to reclaim the trophy in 2023 makes them a formidable contender.
5. Sweden
Sweden, a team that consistently competes at the highest level, features a long-time Chelsea captain, Magda Eriksson and skillful midfielder Kosovare Asllani.
Coached by Peter Gerhardsson, Sweden’s strength lies in their organisation and defensive solidity. Their physicality and aerial prowess often come to the fore in set-piece situations, both in attack and defence.
Sweden’s remarkable run to the final of the 2019 World Cup, where they claimed the bronze medal, demonstrates their ability to rise to the occasion on the grandest stage. With their eyes set on glory in 2023 after the group stage, Sweden is undoubtedly a team to watch closely in the tournament.
As the 2023 FIFA Women’s World Cup continues to unfold, the competition among the powerhouse teams is fierce. Each nation brings its unique style and exceptional talent to the tournament, promising fans thrilling matches and memorable moments. As we follow the journey of these teams, football enthusiasts can expect an exhilarating spectacle that showcases the best of women’s football on the world stage.