Group D is quite fascinating and has the potential to generate a variety of captivating storylines. Although England was initially regarded as one of the top contenders for the World Cup, the team’s plans could be derailed by injuries and retirements. Additionally, the debut of Haiti, who has overcome incredible odds, is an inspiring story to watch. The remaining teams in the group include Denmark and China, who could provide some twists regarding our predictions.
So let’s get to it; here is our Women’s World Cup Group D prediction.
Check out more World Cup group previews and predictions: Group A I Group B I Group C
Group D Preview
Group D is shaping up to be interesting, potentially providing plenty of twists and turns. Once seen as a top pick to win the World Cup, England has hit a few bumps in the road. Injuries to key players like Leah Williamson and Beth Mead and the retirement of Ellen White and Jill Scott have left the team with some big shoes to fill. The onus is now on players like Keira Walsh, Lauren James, and Chloe Kelly to step up and lead the team forward. They must stick to their strengths to overcome this challenge, with a strong defense and speedy attack.
Denmark is returning to the World Cup after a 16-year absence, and they are playing an exciting brand of football. Their goal is to make it out of the group stage, which will largely depend on the performance of elite striker Pernille Harder. However, they must avoid putting all their eggs in one basket and rely on their balance of veterans and youth to carry them through.
Haiti is making their World Cup debut against all odds. With little funding or support, these women have achieved an incredible feat just by qualifying. However, they are the lowest-ranked CONCACAF nation in the competition and lack a solid defense, which may make it tough for them to compete.
China, the reigning Women’s Asian Cup champions, is not entering the World Cup with much momentum. With only two wins in their last eight matches, they will need to step up their game if they hope to impact Group D. That said, don’t sleep on China; they play a fantastic team game and could easily find their groove.
Women’s World Cup Group D Prediction
There’s no doubt that England is a strong enough team to make it out of their group. However, the real question on everyone’s mind is which team will secure the second spot.
It seems likely that this will come down to a showdown between China and Denmark, with the winner moving on to the next round. Of course, there’s always the X Factor to consider, and in this case, that comes in the form of Pernille Harder, an elite striker for Denmark. Harder is well-rested and has recovered from a previous injury, so if she can find her groove on the field, she could carry her team a long way.
Meanwhile, China will be focused on playing a strong team game and getting scoring from Wang Shuang and Wang Shanshan. While their past results in 2023 may not be in their favour, China won’t let that deter them from giving it their all. Ultimately, it looks like England and Denmark will be the teams to advance to the next round.
Prediction: England, Denmark
Game Schedule
July 22: England vs. Haiti (5:30 a.m. ET)
July 22: Denmark vs. China (8:00 a.m. ET)
July 28: England vs. Denmark (4:30 a.m. ET)
July 28: China vs. Haiti (7:00 a.m. ET)
August 1: China vs. England (7:00 a.m. ET)
August 1: Haiti vs. Denmark (7:00 a.m. ET)
