Women’s World Cup Predictions: 3 Picks for Round of 16

After an exciting group stage, qualified teams are ready to play their first knock-out stage clashes.

Women’s World Cup enters its last-16 round after a host of major surprises in the group stage.

Brazil, Argentina, and Italy suffered early exits, while African teams got the world by surprise.

As we prepare for the first knock-out games of the World Cup, let’s take a look at three betting tips for the round of 16 matches.

Goals likely on both sides when Japan meet Norway

Japan reached the last-16 round on the back of a wonderful group stage run. The Asian giants kept clean sheets in all three of their games while scoring 11 goals against Zambia, Costa Rica, and Spain.

Japan’s incredible attacking form convinces us that they will find the back of the net against Norway. However, their opponents’ 6-0 win over Philippines in the third round of the group stage suggests they are also prepared enough to score in the upcoming match.

Back Spain to beat Switzerland

Spain were shocked by Japan in the final round of the group stage as they lost 4-0. But they had already secured their place in the knock-out stage with two brilliant wins against Costa Rica and Zambia.

Having scored eight goals during the group stage, Spain will most likely find enough goalscoring chances against Switzerland. On the other hand, Switzerland’s back-to-back goalless draws in their last two games suggest they won’t be able to prevent Spain from outscoring them.

Don’t expect goals when USWNT face Sweden

USWNT came under criticism for their uninspiring displays during the group stage, but they managed to reach the knock-out stage with five points from their three matches.

Having struggled to create chances against Wales and Ireland, USA will most likely find it hard to find the back of the net against Sweden’s in-form backline. We expect both sides to take conservative approaches to the game as the Swedes come into the match as the underdogs and USWNT are not enjoying their best form.