Women’s World Cup Group Stage: Match Day Three Reactions
Lauren James celebrates her goal. Image: The Pride of London
AUCKLAND, New Zealand - Much like the first two matchdays, the third and final round of group stage games gifted fans with a lot of action as well as surprises, such as Germany and Brazil getting knocked out of the Women’s World Cup. A few players and moments stand out from the rest.
Best Player - Lauren James (England)
In many ways, this matchday was when Lauren James showed what she was truly capable of. Scoring two and assisting three, she was an ever-present force for England as they destroyed China 6-1. She has played a key role for England in almost every game so far in the tournament.
Best Goal - Marta Cox against France
In one of the best free kicks of the tournament, Marta Cox scored Panama’s first Women’s World Cup goal as Panama put up a valiant fight against France. While Panama might be out of the Women’s World Cup, Cox’s goal was an incredible moment for Panama in this tournament.
Best Team - Japan
This was a tough one, especially with impressive performances from Netherlands, England and Morocco, but the best team of the matchday and the tournament so far has to be Japan. They have performed admirably so far in this entire tournament, and this matchday was no different. Japan could have let their foot off the gas since they already qualified for the Round of 16, but they did just the opposite, defeating Spain 4-0. They scored their chances and kept Spain out to set up a Round of 16 clash against Norway.
Best Match - South Africa 3-2 Italy
Although there were other games with more goals, this game was action-packed from start to finish. This game had goals exchanged throughout, with South Africa managing to score in stoppage time to win 3-2 and move on to the Round of 16. Expect plenty of goals when South Africa takes on Netherlands in the Round of 16.
Biggest Upcoming Matches - Sweden versus United States and Colombia versus Jamaica
While most, if not all, of the Round of 16 games have the potential to be massive clashes, these two games are both interesting matchups. Sweden takes on a struggling United States team in a match where anything can happen. Then, in Colombia vs. Jamaica, two underdogs face off to determine who will be moving on to the quarterfinals. Be sure to watch Sweden vs. the United States on Sunday at 5:00 a.m. EDT and Colombia vs. Jamaica on Tuesday at 4:00 a.m. EDT.
