SPORT – Founded in 1991, the FIFA Women´s World Cup is now in its 32nd year. The current title holders are the USA. This year’s games are being held in Australia and New Zealand.
The most recent World Cup, hosted by France in 2019, was won by the United States, who beat the Netherlands 2–0 to win their second consecutive and fourth overall title. The US is once again tipped to be the favourite. Check out all the fixtures here.
Canada v Ireland
Ireland had a tough first game in the group stages against host country, Australia but with only one ball passed the keeper, they did themselves proud.
Today, they had their second game in group B – another tough one. This time it was against Canada.
Just 6 minutes into the game, a corner kick went to the Irish girls. Number 11, Katie McCabe stepped up, and amazingly put it away straight from the corner. The fans were buzzing, and Ireland were one goal up.
The Irish side continued to dominate the first half and must have felt sure they would progress. However, with 5 minutes added for stoppage time, in the dying seconds, the Canadian side curled the ball into the box hitting off Megan Connolly´s studs before going into the net. With the OG, it was 1-1 at half time.
When the teams came out for the second half, The Canadians seemed the stronger side.
Less than 10 minutes into the second half, Adriana Leon scored the goal that put Canada in the lead. The game ended 2-1.
With a draw or a win needed to have a chance at qualifying for the last 16, Ireland´s World Cup Dream was over. They play the final game of the group next week against Nigeria.
Spain v Zambia
Also today, Spain took on Zambia in group C. Spain eased their way through the match winning by 5 goals to nil. Goals came from Teresa Abelleira after 9 minutes, Jennifer Hermoso scored twice in 13 and 70 minutes, and Alba Redondo also scored twice in 69 and 85 minutes.
Spain remains at the top of group C on goal difference with Japan in second place. Spain play their next game against Japan. However, both are on 6 points, but regardless of the result, both countries will go through to the knockout stages.
United States v Netherlands
Tomorrow, the Netherlands take on the favourites. Both teams are on equal points, but the US are ahead on goal difference.
England v Denmark
And on Friday, England take on Denmark. After having played one game so far, both countries are top, equal in the table. So, a win for either side is crucial.
Also read: Will Spain, Portugal, and Morocco host the 2030 FIFA World Cup?