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With the FIFA Women’s World Cup beginning this Saturday, we look at the teams in Group B; which players could shine and help their nation to progress to the knockout stages and beyond.
GERMANY – 3/1
The eight time European Champions Germany won all ten games in European Qualifying Group One, amassing 62 goals with only four finding their way past a stubborn german defence. No other European side managed to hit the target as often as the 2003 and 2007 World Champions.
With a blend of experienced veterans and talented youngsters, Germany will again be a force to be reckoned with. They are captained by FIFA World Player of the Year Nadine Angerer, and have Celina Sasic and Anja Mittag providing expertise in defence, as well as the cutting attacking edge to coach Silvia Neid’s side. Young duo Tabea Kemme and Sara Dabritz will also benefit from their inclusion in the German World Cup squad.
Coach Neid herself enjoyed success with Germany as a player, earning 111 caps. She then moved into management, receiving the FIFA World Coach of the Year in both 2010 and 2013.
Canada 2015 will be Germany’s seventh World Cup Finals appearance, and will look to improve on last time when they we’re knocked out by Japan in the Quarter-Finals after extra time in Wolfsburg.
ONE TO WATCH – CELIA SASIC
The 26 year old Bonn born forward is the joint third highest goalscorer in Germany’s women’s football with Inka Grings, surpassing coach Silvia Neid and only behind legends Birgit Printz and Heidi Mohr. With 104 caps and 57 goals, the 5 ft 9 FCC Frankfurt striker will be looking to add to her tally and with her record, skill and instincts, she may just do that.
FIXTURES
7 JUNE 21:00 IVORY COAST Lansdowne Stadium, Ottawa
11 JUNE 21:00 NORWAY Lansdowne Stadium, Ottawa
15 JUNE 21:00 THAILAND Winnipeg Stadium, Winnipeg
