The women’s soccer tournament at the Paris Olympics resumes on Wednesday, and it’s a moment for many of the 12 groups involved.
Only the United States and Spain have booked their place in the round of 16 with one game remaining. So there is a lot to play for in France.
In fact, among the dozen or so organizations offering this summer, none have been eliminated yet. Therefore, we expect a dramatic last day in the organization stage.
The Gambling. com experts at The Panel checked the most recent odds on 3 of Wednesday’s games and picked a tip for them.
The United States have already qualified for the round of 16 and are almost certain to take the top spot in Group B thanks to their goal difference.
Emma Hayes is aiming for gold in her first time in charge.
Australia disappointed with a 3-0 loss to Germany in their first match of the summer, but bounced back with a 6-5 win over Zambia on day two.
It was one of the most productive games in Olympic history, as Australia rallied from 5-2 down to win in Nice.
The nature of this victory gave the Matildas some momentum heading into this match; a clash with the United States will be a tough test of their qualifications.
In fact, even if Hayes decides to rest one or two of his female stars, the Americans will almost prove too strong here.
There is plenty of offensive firepower in the American ranks and Australia’s defense has been unconvincing so far. We like the chances of Hayes’ team scoring at halftime in this one.
The same goes for the women, who have already secured their place in the quarterfinals before matchday 3.
The reigning world champions, who beat England in last year’s World Cup final, began their crusade this summer with a 2-1 victory over Japan. A 1-0 defeat to Nigeria last time out allowed Spain to qualify, easing the tension in this match. with the Brazilians.
But Spain will recover on Wednesday because the first position is still assured.
Despite their total of six points, it is still imaginable for Spain to finish third (but they would be guaranteed to qualify as one of the two most productive third-place teams). Don’t expect Spain to make drastic adjustments to their starting eleven.
A loss would leave Brazil vulnerable to an early exit, but could still be enough to move into third place.
However, they probably wouldn’t have to leave anything to chance, so this could be an entertaining encounter as both groups look to qualify for the quarterfinals.
Defeats to Canada (1-2) and Colombia (0-2) have left them on the brink of early elimination, and their upcoming meeting with France may be their toughest test yet.
Winning gold this summer would confirm France’s prestige as a leading force in foreign women’s football, and we hope they advance to the knockout stages with a commanding victory here.