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We’re into the second round of games at the World Cup, when things start to get extra spicy. Today’s games aren’t quite win-or-go-home, but they’re pretty close for several of the competitors.
Things will kick off with Australia v. Brazil in Montpellier. This should be an enthralling game. After defeat in the first round, Australia really need to get a result. A week ago, it felt obvious that they’d win this game and be on six points. Now, the best they can hope for is three, and even that feels dubious. On the evidence of the past several years, Australia is clearly the better team and should be able to right their ship. But on the evidence of the first round, Australia is a shambles and Brazil will be aching for a chance to pick them off.
At the moment it remains unclear whether Marta will be cleared to play in this game. That could be good, or bad, for Brazil’s chances, depending on whether you believe her absence helped them produce a more coherent team performance.
The day’s second game is South Africa v. China in Paris. Both looked like they had real potential to get a result in the first round, but both ultimately fell to superior opponents. Now, they’re staring down the barrel of elimination. A loss here wouldn’t technically end their chances but in practice it probably would. Even a draw is not likely to do either team much good. That could produce an engaging match, with both teams going for the win. Or it could produce a messy game between two teams who want to disrupt more than they want to create.
This is your match day discussion thread! Who do you see taking home the points ? Will Sam Kerr break loose? Will Cristiane score again and make the Golden Boot race interesting? Share your thoughts below!
How To Watch
Match 1
Who: Australia v. Brazil
Where: Stade de la Mosson, Montpellier
Kickoff: 12 p.m. ET
TV: Fox
Streaming: Free Fubo TV trial
Match 2
Who: South Africa v. China
Where: Parc des Princes, Paris
Kickoff: 3 p.m. ET
TV: Fox
Streaming: Free Fubo TV trial