World Cup

After a stellar two weeks of group play kicked off the Women’s World Cup, the 32-team pool has now reduced by half to determine who hoists the trophy on August 20. This weekend, the Round of 16 officially kicks off. Team USA faces their toughest test yet as they face off with Sweden in Melbourne looking to secure a spot in the Quarterfinals.

The Matchup: #USAvSWE

• Stage: Round of 16
• 2:00 AM PT kickoff
• Venue: Melbourne Rectangular Stadium, Melbourne, Australia
• Watch: FOX40
• Sports Bra Donations: Support Girls on the Run of Greater Sacramento by donating new sports bras for girls and young women who are building confidence and life skills through sport. Shop the Amazon Wishlist or drop off at one of our partner locations throughout the region.

Outlook: United States

In its first three contests, the defending champions may not have performed at their best – but found ways to earn results despite it. Team USA made it through the group stage by a thin margin, securing a scoreless draw against Portugal in its final group match. To best Sweden, the backline – which only conceded one score in the opening three matches – will need to remain in form, and the attack will have to produce without the contribution of Rose Lavelle, who will miss the match serving a yellow card accumulation suspension.

2023 marks the ninth consecutive tournament the USWNT has reach the knockout stage. In that time, the squad is unbeaten in its opening knockout round match. Last time around in 2019, the U.S. bested Spain by a score of 2-1. Just once since 1991 has the squad required more than 90 minutes to against their first knockout stage opponent, advancing past Brazil in 2011 on penalties 5-3 in the Round of 16.

Outlook: Sweden

Sweden dominated arguably the tournament’s toughest group – claiming three group stage victories over Italy, Argentina, and South Africa. The world’s #2 ranked team behind the U.S. was stellar on both sides of the ball, scoring a second-best nine goals and conceding just one. As a result of their strong form to open the tournament, Head Coach Peter Gerhardsson was able to rest kept members of his squad in preparation for this weekend’s match – meaning they’ll be fully ready from the jump against the team in their crosshairs from the outset.

History

The U.S. shares a unique history with the Blue and Yellow at the Women’s World Cup, having faced off six times. Sunday’s contest marks the first-ever knockout stage game between the two nations.

The two sides played each other in their first ever World Cup match in 1991, a match won by the U.S. They have matched up in each tournament dating back to 2003, which was the first of five straight tournaments where they were drawn into the same group. Only once at the tournament has Sweden bested the United States – 2011 group stage matchup decided by a second half own goal.

Team USA closes out the Group Stage of the 2023 Women’s World Cup this week. A late-night fixture for those watching stateside sees the Americans line up opposite another European power in Portugal. It’s a must-win for the U.S. Women, with three teams in Group E in position to move on to the knockout rounds.

The Matchup: #USAvPOR

• Stage: Group E, Matchday 3
• 12:00 AM PT kickoff
• Venue: Eden Park, Auckland, New Zealand
• Watch: FOX40
• Sports Bra Donations: Support Girls on the Run of Greater Sacramento by donating new sports bras for girls and young women who are building confidence and life skills through sport. Shop the Amazon Wishlist or drop off at one of our partner locations throughout the region.

Advance Scenarios

The final matchday in any World Cup group stage always brings drama. Simply, if the U.S. are to win or draw, they would secure a spot in the knockout stage. Should they fall, an unlikely Vietnam win over the Netherlands would send the USWNT through. Currently, the Americans sit atop Group E with four points and a +3 scoring differential, followed by the Dutch with four points and a +1 scoring differential.

Outlook: United States

After coming out of the gates a bit slow on Matchday 2, Team USA bounced back in the second half to secure a result against the Netherlands. Team USA found their form after Rose Lavelle entered off the bench in the 51^st minute and gave the attack a jolt. Just after the hour mark, Lindsey Horan got her head on the end of a corner kick to level the scoreline. The offside flag denied Alex Morgan of what could have been a winner six minutes later, before strong defense from both sides in the final half hour sent each back with a point.

All the focus for the United States is on one thing – moving on to the knockout rounds. It’s a destination the squad has reached in each tournament since the inaugural 1991 competition. To do so against a tough Portugal team with a lot to play for, the defending champions will need to maintain their defensive form that’s seen them concede just once in two matches. Opportunities will continue to come on the attacking end, where Team USA has been very active both against Vietnam and the Netherlands.

Outlook: Portugal

Portugal bounced back from its tournament-opening loss to the Netherlands with a strong 2-0 win over Vietnam. Similar to the United States’ performance against the Golden Star Women’s Warriors, Portugal dominated on the attack with 30 attempts at goal. It should provide a wealth of confidence to the squad heading into possibly their toughest contest of the tournament against the defending champions twice over. 

Only a win can send the European nation through. Against the U.S., they’ll have to be at their best – especially early in the match. Each contest they have played has been decided early on, with the only score against the Dutch coming in the 13^th minute, and both scores against Vietnam coming in the opening 21 minutes.

After opening their title defense with a dominating win over Vietnam, the United States turns its attention to its toughest test of the group stage. The two finalists from the tournament’s 2019 edition rematch – with three points on the line and a chance to secure a spot in the knockout rounds. Fans can take in the match at Heart Health Park before Republic FC kicks off against Phoenix Rising FC.

The Matchup: USAvNED

• Stage: Group E, Matchday 2
• 6:00 PM PT kickoff
• Venue: Wellington Regional Stadium, Wellington, New Zealand
• Watch: FOX40
• Watch Party: Heart Health Park – Match ticket to #SACvPHX required
• Sports Bra Donations: Support Girls on the Run of Greater Sacramento by donating new sports bras for girls and young women who are building confidence and life skills through sport. Shop the Amazon Wishlist or drop off at one of our partner locations throughout the region.

How to Watch

Fans can take in the action from New Zealand at Heart Health Park before Republic FC takes on Phoenix Rising FC. To allow fans to catch kick-off, gates will open at 6:00PM, with a big screen present in the concourse showing the match. A match ticket to Republic FC’s contest against Phoenix is required for entry.

Outlook: United States

Team USA put in a stellar performance in its shutout victory over Vietnam to open the tournament. Constant pressure on the attack allowed the squad to outshoot their foes 28-0 as the Americans had little trouble breaking lines and getting in behind. Sophia Smith put in a first half brace with scores in the 14^th minute and again in first half stoppage time, before Lindsey Horan added a third for the Americans with a 77^th minute score.

Against the Dutch, the Stars and Stripes will need to maintain that relentlessness that led to the lopsided possession and attacking stats. But the squad missed a handful of golden opportunities they will need to put away in order to record a second straight victory. Setting the tone against a far superior Dutch defense by getting Alex Morgan and company going early may be what decides the game.

Outlook: Netherlands

The Dutch – which entered ninth in the world rankings – put in a strong opening performance against a Portuguese side that could challenge for a spot in the knockout stage. A 13^th minute score from Stefanie van der Gragt proved to be all they needed as the squad’s backline saw out the game with a stellar showing to keep a clean sheet. They were strong on the counter, providing additional opportunities as the contest went on.

The match means a lot to the Orange Lionesses as they face off with the nation that defeated them in the 2019 title match, as well as in the Quarterfinals at the 2021 Tokyo Olympics by way of penalty shootout. The Dutch haven’t bested the U.S. in nine meetings – claiming the first between the nations back in 1991. As a result, the squad will have a massive chip on its shoulder and will give all it has to take down the world’s best. Its strong backline and midfield may give the U.S. issues – provided they can maintain the quality showed last week.

The FIFA Women’s World Cup has arrived. Building off a thrilling Men’s tournament in Qatar this past fall, Women’s Football takes center stage from Australia and New Zealand starting early in the morning on Thursday, local time. Here in the U.S., all eyes will be on team USA as it begins its quest for a three-peat against World Cup debutant Vietnam on Friday.

How to Watch

Fans eager to take in the match with other soccer fans from around the region can join the club at Le Five Indoor Soccer in Rancho Cordova for a free watch party. The event will also mark the start of a month-long community initiative to collect sports bras for girls and teens that are gaining confidence and empowerment through sports in partnership with Le Five, Restore Hyper Wellness, G6 Performance Training, and Saha Float Spa. For more information or to RSVP, visit SacRepublicFC.com/WorldCup.

Outlook: United States

All eyes are on the United States at the outset. The Stars and Stripes enter the tournament as the defending title winners twice over, with a shot at a three-peat – an accomplishment never claimed by any nation in World Cup history, Men’s or Women’s.

The runaway favorite at the outset, Team USA again boasts a strong roster. This year, the United States’ contingent of veterans is bolstered by a grouping of young, energetic players – six have 100 or more international caps, while 14 will be making their World Cup debut. It makes for a deep USWNT squad, providing the defending champions an advantage that could take them to the promised land. Against Vietnam, they’ll have an excellent chance at three points if they come out firing from the opening whistle and take advantage of what will likely be a team with early nerves.

Outlook: Vietnam

Vietnam enters the match as the underdog – but one not to be underestimated. Playing its nation’s first ever World Cup match, the Golden Star Women’s Warriors will have nothing to lose and are going to give everything they have as a result.

They will rely heavily on captain Huynh Nhu to provide a threat for her squad on the attacking end. The 31-year old striker is the only member of the Vietnamese team that plays overseas – in fact, she was the first ever from her nation to play abroad professionally upon signing with Portugese side Lank FC in 2022. She is her country’s all-time leading goal-scorer with 64 goals in 103 international appearances.

Throughout the FIFA World Cup, follow along to keep tabs on the top matches to watch throughout the entire tournament, from the group stage all the way to the Final on December 18.

Action from Qatar delivered more of what fans love to see last week in the Quarterfinal stage. Two penalty shootouts, a thrilling upset, and a regional rivalry contest decided in the final ten minutes provided high-quality football amid drama, suspense, and clutch performances in key moments. From the commotion has emerged four contenders, two of surprise and two of the expected. Preview both semifinal matches ahead of the penultimate round of the 2022 World Cup.

Tuesday, December 12: France v Morocco

Kickoff: 11:00 AM PT

Venue: Al Bayt Stadium, Al Khor

Watch: FOX40, Telemundo

Viewing Locations: Mimosa House, Public House, Iron Horse Tavern

Morocco’s triumph of unexpectedly winning Group F, shutting out Spain to advance on penalties, and recording another clean sheet against Portugal has made them the darlings of this year’s tournament. Their advance makes them the first African squad to reach this stage, and the last remaining undefeated team. Having let in just one goal through the entire competition, they will have the world rooting for them as they take on the defending champions eager to repeat.

But France’s chances couldn’t be better than they are now. And coming off their toughest test of the tournament, confidence should be high as their renowned firepower has yet to slow down no matter who stands on the opposite side. As likely the most complete team remaining, eyes will again be on them to take care of business as they have at every stage so far.

Wednesday, December 13: Argentina v Croatia

Kickoff: 11:00 AM PT

Venue: Lusail Stadium, Al Dayyen

Watch: FOX40, Telemundo

Viewing Locations: Mimosa House, Public House, Iron Horse Tavern

No team remaining has persevered like Croatia. Each of their knockout round matches has required a shootout to advance, with their last coming against #1 ranked Brazil. Their work against talented squads has been excellent, even if overshadowed by the many upset defeats at every stage. A trip to the Final for the second consecutive tournament is more than possible if they stay organized.

On the other side, Argentina escaped a Netherlands comeback by the skin of their teeth. While they showed as the better team for the first 70 minutes, as time ticked down they sat deep and slowed, allowing the Dutch back in. They will again possess the advantage in terms of individual talent but will need to out-execute Croatia for all 90 minutes for a shot at glory and a trophy for their storied squad.  

Throughout the FIFA World Cup, follow along to keep tabs on the top matches to watch throughout the entire tournament, from the group stage all the way to the Final on December 18.

Eight teams remain in contention for the trophy in Qatar. The Round of 16 showed loud and clear who is prepared to compete for the title, with the winning squads outscoring those bested 24-6. Those still alive will all jockey this weekend for a spot in the final four, with the victors guaranteed an additional match come the final and contest for third place in two weeks.

Friday, December 9: Croatia v Brazil

Kickoff: 7:00 AM PT

Venue: Education City Stadium, Doha

Watch: FOX40, Telemundo

2018’s runner-up takes on a perennial favorite, fresh off a confident win to open the knockout stage. Croatia isn’t quite the Cinderella squad they were in the previous tournament; however, they have answered every call so far and done well to navigate the tough moments. But a Brazil side back at full strength will have nothing but the semifinal in their sights, and be primed to put in another dominating performance to back up their #1 world ranking.

Friday, December 9: Netherlands v Argentina

Kickoff: 11:00 AM PT

Venue: Lusail Stadium, Al Dayyen

Watch: FOX40, Telemundo

Viewing Locations: Mimosa House, Public House, Iron Horse Tavern

Argentina’s stunning defeat at the hands of Saudi Arabia to open the tournament is appearing as more of a one-off circumstance each time they take the pitch. Dominating wins over Mexico, Poland, and Australia have reinforced the South American side as a legitimate contender for the title, led by golden goose Lionel Messi in top form. Lining up on the opposite end will be the Dutch, who weathered early strong play from the Americans in the Round of 16 before taking control with strong transition play.

Saturday, December 10: Morocco v Portugal

Kickoff: 7:00 AM PT

Venue: Al Thumama Stadium, Doha

Watch: FOX40, Telemundo

It’s likely Morocco remains the underdog after Portugal scored six goals in its Round of 16 match with Cristiano Ronaldo on the bench. However, it’s probably just where they want to be. Their advance to the Quarterfinal on penalties over Spain leaves them as the tournament darlings – the last underdog remaining – and one of only four squads unbeaten in this year’s tournament. They’re not just playing for their nation, though; as Morocco’s appearance in Saturday’s contest marks just the fourth time an African side has ever reached the Quarterfinals.

Saturday, December 10: England v France

Kickoff: 11:00 AM PT

Venue: Al Bayt Stadium, Al Khor

Watch: FOX40, Telemundo

Viewing Locations: Mimosa House, Public House, Iron Horse Tavern

This match puts two rivals in football, politics, geography, and history on the pitch against each other as the headliner of Saturday’s action. European fans can’t ask for much more – especially with how these two teams have played up to this point in the competition. Each attacking unit has dominated thus far – save for England’s scoreless draw with the U.S. – meaning the final contest of the Quarterfinals could end up as either a shootout or a stalemate requiring extra time or composure from 12 yards away. Many likely give the edge to the defending champions, especially with Kylian Mbappe a near shoo-in to find the net.

The United States Men’s National Team has secured a berth in the Round of 16. As the approach now turns to knockout football, it brings with it a whole new pressure of win-or-go-home. They face off with Group A’s winners bright and early Saturday morning, a Dutch side also unbeaten through their first three contests.

The Matchup: USAvNED

• Stage: Round of 16
• Saturday, December 3
•  7:00 AM PT kickoff
• Venue: Khalifa International Stadium, Al Rayyan
• Watch: FOX40, Telemundo
• Where to Watch: Official Viewing Locations

Outlook: United States

Through the Americans’ three group stage matches, the backline has shined. A gritty win over Iran in a do-or-die scenario was achieved in part due to strong defending, which repeatedly kept opposing chances away from goal in the second half. That kind of performance will need to be maintained if they wish to survive and advance. It’s far from unreasonable to expect, as Matt Turner, Tim Ream and company have now led two straight clean sheets, and not allowed a goal in the run of play to this point.

Entering the knockout rounds, who steps up off the bench will be a topic to watch. Christian Pulisic and forward Josh Sargent each exited early against Iran, Sargent with what appeared to be a serious injury. Each are reported to be available, but regardless, minutes from Gio Reyna, Jesus Ferreria, Jordan Morris and others off the bench – which some fans have clamored for – may need to play a part.

Outlook: Netherlands

The Dutch are far from the world-beaters they were in their 2014 third-place finish. But they have met the expectations of a group winner, conceding just once and going unbeaten in Group A. Against Qatar and Senegal, they dominated the attacking side of the ball, and performed well defensively. Like the United States, they have only allowed a single score in the tournament. Led by Liverpool cornerstone Virgil Van Dijk in the back, and Golden Boot shareholder Cody Gakpo up top, they’re a balanced squad that has plenty of potential for a deep run.

History

2022 is the third straight appearance for the U.S. in which they’ve reached the knockout rounds. The United States last trip to the Round of 16 came in 2014, most notable for Tim Howard’s record 15 saves in a 1-2 extra time loss to Belgium.

An American victory Saturday would put the Stars and Stripes through to the Quarterfinal stage for the first time since 2002, when they bested Mexico in the Round of 16 – to date still the nation’s only knockout round win all-time. That year’s squad featured one Gregg Berhalter at center back for a Bruce Arena-led USA team.

The final matchday in Group C puts Mexico against the wall, needing a victory and then some to advance to the knockout stage for the eighth consecutive tournament. Standing in their way is Saudi Arabia, owners of perhaps Qatar’s biggest upset result, with a chance to eliminate their North American foes and secure their first knockout stage berth since their inaugural World Cup showing in 1994.

The Matchup: MEXvKSA

• Stage: Group C, Matchday 3
• 11:00 AM PT kickoff
• Venue: Lusail Stadium, Al Daayen
• Watch: Fox Sports 1, Telemundo
• Where to Watch: Official Viewing Locations

Outlook: Mexico

Mexico has no margin for error. After a promising draw against Poland to open the tournament individual excellence from Leo Messi put down El Tri against Argentina. The result placed them at the bottom of the group, but still with a chance to advance.  To move on to the knockout rounds they need to win – but the result of Argentina and Poland’s matchup will determine their fate. Should Poland win, a victory sends Mexico through with no questions asked. With an Argentina win, tiebreakers would come into play to determine who advances.

The latter scenario has some fans understandably nervous. Not a single ball has gone over the line for Mexico so far, and the scoring balance currently favors Poland. To beat a Saudi team still running off the high of besting one of the tournament’s top squads, the forwards will need to find form and take advantage of every opportunity they get.  

Outlook: Saudi Arabia

The Saudis have everything to play for. After a thrilling win to open the tournament, they fell 2-0 to Poland. But they remain tied with Argentina in points, so heading into the final matchday they control their own destiny. A victory would tie them with Argentina at the top of the group should they best Poland, or put them ahead of both in the event of a draw.

If they can keep up some of the positives shown in their last match a victory would be well within their sights. Against the Poles they dominated the ball, holding 64% possession. Resulting from that control came 16 attempts at goal as compared to their opponent’s nine, a balance that would favor them considerably if they can perform at a high level on the defensive end.  

History

Tuesday’s match will be the first between the two nations in over two decades. The 1999 Confederations Cup was the last time they matched up. Mexico has dominated all-time, claiming four wins to go with one draw.

The match circled on the calendar for all Mexico fans is now in sights. After a draw against Poland to open the competition, Argentina is their next foe. With a point in hand and a chance to bury the South American powerhouse’s chance at a knockout stage berth, El Tri will be plenty motivated to put out a good performance.

The Matchup: MEXvARG

• Stage: Group C, Matchday 2
• 11:00 AM PT kickoff
• Venue: Lusail Stadium, Al Daayen
• Watch: Fox Sports 1, Telemundo
• Where to Watch: Official Viewing Locations

Outlook: Mexico

A point against Poland on Tuesday morning got Mexico off on the right foot. Some concerns about their ability to take advantage of opportunities were fairly voiced by some, but they still played well against a youthful, upstart side. In the end, it was great work by Guillermo Ochoa in goal that saved the day, denying Robert Lewandowski at the penalty spot.

A full-squad effort will be needed to get a result in the squad’s second match. Mexico will need to be organized and patient, as well as keep from beating themselves if they hope to have a chance. With top-tier players at a number of positions for Argentina, all who step on the pitch will have the pressure on them to execute well for all 90 minutes.

Outlook: Argentina

Group C’s favorites have a lot to consider following a crushing defeat. They started well in their opening match and took the lead with a 10^th minute penalty, but after conceding an equalizer momentum shifted considerably.

Finding a way to control the tone of the match will likely be a big focus of their game plan. But, the defeat to Saudi Arabia also presented a few concerns they may not have expected. Argentina generated more of the opportunities, and finished the game with 64% possession. But the offside flag brought back three scores that could have been in the first half, and they didn’t do well enough to pull even as time ticked down. Converting on their chances will surely be a focus in training as they prepare for Mexico, especially with how every game has been open for the taking.

History

The two nations have been among each other’s most frequent foes all time, but, they haven’t faced off in a competitive match since the 2010 World Cup. Argentina has dominated the fixture, suffering only two defeats, the last coming in 2004. The only results for Mexico since that time have been draws in 2005 and 2015.