Every team has had their opportunity to strut their stuff at the Women's World Cup and at first glance Germany and the United States have been two of the more impressive sides, while Norway and Sweden, the Scandinavian beauties, have struggled against lower-ranked opponents. There is no need to panic, yet, as all teams still have a realistic shot to advance to the knock-out stage. Here are Day 5's fearless predictions.
Day 5
Canada - France
Pencil in the winner of this game to join Germany in the knockout stages of the World Cup while at the same time eliminating the loser from the tournament all together. A tie, on the other hand, brings into play goal differential and whether the Germans will field their A team in a meaningless match on the final day of group play. Canada, in a normal situation, would enter this game buoyed by their performance against Germany, albeit in a loss. However, the health and more importantly the injured nose of Christine Sinclair is their main concern. If Captain Canada is able to suit up against the French I see Canada winning this game. However, without her, the whole dynamic changes and the French could grab all three points. It should be an interesting match in Bochum.
Canada - France (2-1)
Germany - Nigeria
Even though Germany did defeat Canada in front of 73,000 fans in the Olympic Stadium in Berlin, it did not conjure up any memories from the 2007 World Cup, where they began the defense of their title with an 11-0 spanking of Argentina. Germany, one could say, missed more than their fair share of chances against Canada, and this match against Nigeria will allow them ability to score a couple more goals than the two they managed in their first match. Nigeria have handled themselves admirably so far in the World Cup and their one goal defeat to France should be nothing to sneeze at. However, the Germans represent a different challenge all together.
Germany - Nigeria (4-0)
Fearless Predictions
7-1
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