Sweden meet defending champions USA and fellow strugglers Japan in a Group A that promises to be electric – while Finland play off for third against Australia.The all-action showpiece kicks off at dawn ET (03:00) local time at the Wellington Stadium and favourites Sweden are being tipped to retain this years’ tournament, although debutants South Africa are likely to pose a scare following their sudden rise up the pecking order.
Third on our list, holders Sweden – runner-ups at the 2003 Women’s World Cup – have an excellent team, featuring striker Fridolina Rolfo (17 goals in 21 matches for Barcelona last year), who’s scored 16 times in 18 internationals. With her attacking ability, Rolfo is likely to be a key player for Sweden throughout the competition, while defence has been well protected with Jeniffer Falk in goal and the likes of Lina Sembrant (center) and Magdalena Eriksson at centre-half.
Meanwhile, South Africa’s Banyanas will take on ranked Sweden in a difficult game. However, they have received a boost with the return of seasoned forward Thembi Kgatlana, who has recovered from a long-term injury sustained during the 2022 Wafcon group stage. The fact that Kgatlana is playing will of course provide pleasure for the squad and increase their ability on offense.
This is an important game that yields the final result which would put one team definitely in the qualification spotlight for the knock-out stage at the Women’s World Cup. Italy and Argentina are the other teams in the group, making every point crucial for Sweden and South Africa. It promises to be an exciting encounter as both sides look set to press for a win and get an away goal which would give them a lead in this competition.
But when the world’s best players take to the pitch in a tournament that starts today, everyone will want to see Sweden and South Africa produce something special.It is Sweden who stand in with expertise and sheer quality, however it will not be over-risking to suggest that South Africa are definite outsiders. This is set to be a electrifying encounter which kicks off the Women’s World Cup Finalissima, with everything else happening on the pitch and in the stands coming towards you.
