The first knockout round of the 2023 Women's World Cup begins today with two matches. Switzerland faces Spain, while Japan takes on Norway.
2023 Women's World Cup match schedule today August 5
| Day | Hour | Match | Live channel |
| 5/8 | 12h | Switzerland vs Spain | THQH, On Sports, TV360 |
| 5/8 | 15h | Japan vs Norway | THQH, On Sports, TV360 |
The Spanish women's team has a very strong attack.
The Swiss women's team topped Group A. This was a surprising achievement because it was a group with the presence of Norway - former world champions.
Coach Inka Grings and her team only scored two goals in the group stage - both coming in the match against the Philippines. Switzerland qualified for the next round after drawing goalless with New Zealand and Norway.
Clearly, defense is the mainstay of the Swiss women's team at the 2023 World Cup. Entering the round of 16, the team's solidity will face a huge challenge when their opponent is the strongest attack of the tournament.
Spain had the most possession, created the most chances and had the most shots in the group stage. Even in the defeat to Japan, Spain dominated despite fielding only a reserve team and only lost because their opponents counterattacked too well.
Japan 4-0 Spain
The remaining match of the day is a clash between two former champions of the tournament, Japan and Norway. The top spot in the group may not necessarily bring an advantage to the Asian representative when they have to face a very strong opponent.
Norway had a poor start to the tournament due to internal turmoil. They failed to score in their first two matches. However, when class was needed, the former world champions showed their ability at the right time with a 6-0 win over the Philippines. That was the match where Norway showed their true attacking prowess with high-speed football.
Against such opponents, the Japanese women's team probably has no fear. On the contrary, they have the conditions to play counter-attacks. Spain's defeat to Japan is a lesson for the Norwegian women's team to be wary of.
Han Phong
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