On a rain-drenched evening in Perth, Canada tackled a challenging match against the Republic of Ireland, recovering from an initial setback to secure a pivotal 2-1 victory in the Women’s World Cup.
Katie McCabe initiated the scoring with a remarkable ‘Olimpico’ goal, hitting the target directly from a corner kick. Her shot flew unimpeded over Canada’s goalkeeper Kailen Sheridan, leaving the crowd at Perth Rectangular Stadium in awe.
However, the Irish team’s half-time lead was unexpectedly overturned when Megan Connolly couldn’t clear the ball, resulting in an own goal that equalized the game.
Just after the second half began, Adriana Leon converted the Canadian comeback into a reality, netting the ball from the edge of the area to secure the winning points.
With only one Group B match left for Canada and the Republic of Ireland, the North Americans lead the group with four points. In contrast, the Europeans are yet to earn any points. Australia and Nigeria, the remaining teams in Group B, are slated to face off on Thursday.
Earlier in the day, Spain and Japan became the first teams to confirm their positions in the knockout stage of the 2023 Women’s World Cup. Japan achieved a comfortable 2-0 victory over Costa Rica, securing their qualification before Spain confirmed their own with an impressive 5-0 win against Zambia, ensuring both teams’ progression to the last 16.
The two teams are set to meet in the final Group C match on Monday, July 31, with both aware that the winner will face Group A’s second-place team while the loser will face the group’s top team.
Canada’s Important Victory
Despite being ranked as the world No. 7 against a World Cup newcomer, the match showed closer competition than anticipated.
In the first half, Ireland demonstrated impressive resilience, posing constant threats to the Canadian goal, culminating in McCabe’s spectacular ‘Olimpico’ goal. However, Ireland’s lead was curtailed just before half-time when Connolly’s clearance went awry, ending up in their net.
In response to the challenging first half, head coach Bev Priestman introduced Canadian legendary scorer Christine Sinclair to improve their luck. Although Sinclair had many opportunities to make history by scoring in her sixth World Cup tournament, her wait continues.
Nevertheless, Leon’s decisive strike in the 53rd minute put Canada in the lead, which they successfully defended through tenacious play and strategic ball control.
Spain’s Tournament Run
After their clear victory against Costa Rica and a team brimming with talent, Spain is tipped as a favourite for the Women’s World Cup.
Spain’s impressive display of attacking prowess, featuring Jennifer Hermoso, two-time Ballon d’Or winner Alexia Putellas and her Barcelona teammates Aitana Bonmatí and Salma Paralluelo, left the Zambia defence disoriented.
Teresa Abelleira, the team’s holding midfielder, opened the scoring with the tournament’s quickest goal, and five minutes later, Hermoso expanded their lead on her 100th national team appearance. Despite a more assertive display from Zambia in the second half, Spain managed to net further goals and ensured their dominance.
Despite Zambia’s spirited efforts, the match ended with a convincing win for Spain, securing their progression alongside Japan to the next stage. They now await their final Group A opponents, with Switzerland, New Zealand, the Philippines, and Norway all potentially advancing.
Japan’s Winning Form
After their emphatic 5-0 win over Zambia in the opening game, Japan displayed more commendable performances against Costa Rica.
They appeared superior to their opponents with well-executed passing and disciplined tactics, creating scoring opportunities at will. Naomoto and 19-year-old forward Fujino scored quickly, bringing the match firmly into Japan’s control.
Despite the convincing lead, Japan maintained its aggressive play, effectively stifling any attempts by Costa Rica to retaliate. This display of skill and determination hints at Japan’s potential to secure a second World Cup title.
A Spanish win or draw against Zambia for Costa Rica will end their World Cup journey.
As the 2023 Women’s World Cup progresses, Canada, Spain, and Japan have established themselves as formidable competitors, each triumphing in their recent matches. These games were filled with memorable moments and highlight-reel goals, and the tournament continues to provide drama and excitement. With teams like Switzerland, New Zealand, the Philippines, and Norway still in contention, the coming matches promise even more captivating football. The World Cup stage is set, and the stakes continue to rise as each game unfolds.
