Spain suffered an unexpected 0-4 defeat to Japan in the final round of the Women's World Cup group stage, and will be looking to bounce back with a strong performance when they meet Switzerland in the Round of 16 after this match.
I was expecting an even match between Spain and Japan, however, the Raging Bulls were unable to hold off the fierce counterattacks of Nadeshiko Yamato on defense, and the strikers were unable to create effective chances on goal despite Spain's dominance in time of possession. Nevertheless, I am confident that the star-studded Spanish team will go far in this tournament.
In the first two rounds of the tournament, Spain scored 8 goals, and I believe that Elenberg Lidice and Onabatu will consolidate the team's backline to avoid a repeat of the mistake against Japan. In addition, I predict that Barcelona midfielder Bongmadi will have a great game. Meanwhile, Esther Dry Sallis is expected to return to the starting lineup as her role in front of the net has made the team's offense much more efficient.
Meanwhile, Switzerland have done well to top their group with Norway and hosts New Zealand. However, it is expected that they will have to expend a lot of energy fighting for possession against Spain.
Switzerland has not conceded a goal yet and I am sure Maritz will organize the defense well and motivate the defenders to give their best to fend off Spain's attack. Captain Leah Wardy will play a disciplined role in the midfield to motivate her teammates and Ramona Barkhaven and Livin will need to take their chances in the box as Switzerland is not a team that is good at creating goal scoring chances.
