We're down to the final four teams vying to win the 2015 FIFA Women's World Cup here in Canada. Before I provide my preditions for the semifinals, here is a quick recap of the quarter-final matches.
Canada vs. England
Canada had their best game of the tournament, particularly in the second half as they out-possessed their opponents 59% to 41%, and with double their oppositions attempts on goal, but mistakes proved costly. A devastating three minutes for Canada saw them exit the World Cup. England's Jodie Taylor returned to the starting line up post-injury to score the opening goal. The visitors capitalized on her strengths, constantly looking to use her pace to get in behind the Canadian defence.
The Canadians will be devastated by this result. Particularly in a game when they out-shone their opponents. Their focus will now shift to building the Olympic squad, where we can expect to see a few younger faces feature. Regardless, I have no doubt many young girls have been inspired by their performances and the magnitude of the World Cup on home soil.
The fans were phenomenal in this game, right behind the team until the 90th minute. Not only should the team be proud, but also the people of Vancouver. This game now holds the record for attendance to a game, of any national team, in any sport in Canada. The record-breaking crowd (54,027) showed how big the support for women’s football is in this country.
France vs. Germany
Such a shame that the draw placed these two teams against each other in the quarter-finals. Both sides are world class, and certainly in the top four in the world. France looked the better of the two teams for most of the game, with a deserved lead until the last five minutes of the game when Germany were awarded a penalty, which they slotted home. Germany, as always, was strong in the penalty shootout and took the game 5-4.
I was personally disappointed to see France out of the World Cup. For me, they had the potential to be the most complete team – technicians with pace/athleticism and a ruthless front four. I don’t think we saw the best of them in this tournament, but definitely a team to watch in next year's Olympics.
Australia vs. Japan
Australia did their country proud in this tournament, making history in achieving a placement in the quarter-finals. It is clear to see that head coach Alen Stajcic is bringing through some exciting young talent in his squad. Their attacking lineup caused problems for every team they played – with Sam Kerr being a stand-out performer.
This quarter-final game saw the reigning world champions with a lot of the ball, and Australia always looking dangerous in transition - as they have been all tournament. It took Japan until three minutes left via their substitute Mana Iwabuchi to book a semifinal place. For Japan to go all the way, and repeat 2011, they will need to hit another gear. Although they are the only team to have won all their games leading into the semifinals, they are yet to be tested by a top ten nation up to this point.
China vs. USA
In the rematch of the 1999 World Cup final, USA walked out looking full of confidence, knowing that they have only conceded one goal in the competition so far.
The Americans dominated the match from the beginning – creating many chances, with Carly Lloyd’s goal in the 51st minute maintaining their record of appearing in every World Cup semifinal, which is very impressive.
China will be happy with how far they progressed in the tournament with such a young squad – but inevitably disappointed to have come this far and not got to the next stage. Expect this team to hit another level in Rio, they have come a long way in the past two years.
Predictions for the semifinals:
Germany – USA (Tuesday, June 30 - 4pm on CTV/TSN)
Expect this to be a very close game. The Germans will be very structured defensively, and it will come down to whether the USA, and their attacking minded players can break the structure down.
Score prediction – 2-1 USA
Japan – England (Wednesday, July 1 - 4pm on CTV/TSN)
This will be an exciting encounter. Japan will have to be prepared to nullify England in transition with their direct play. But one of Japan’s biggest strengths is their ability to break down a deep block, with clever movement and interchange of their front four. So expect to see an exciting brand of football from Japan in this game.
Score prediction – 2-0 Japan
Led by Emma Humphries, Whitecaps FC are holding a camp centred around the World Cup this weekend (including tickets to the final at BC Place, which is already sold out). As part of the camp, girls will have the opportunity to come and interact/learn from the Girls Elite REX coaching staff.
Dates: July 3- 6
