FIFA U-20 Women’s World Championship is where you will discover and see the rising and future superstars of big Women leagues.
Group A
Australia is powered by captain Sally Shipard whose youthfullness show a lot of firepower but in general, Australia’s depth is going to be a problem for them.
Brazil is definitely the favorite in this group having the depth, exposure and skill set to beat any opponent. They are led by a strong leader in Marta who is expected to power this squad easily past the stage.
New Zealand reminds me of Argentina in the Men’s FIFA World Cup in Germany where they had a young and explosive team. With Annalie Longo, Caitlin Campbell and Merissa Smith just 15 years old, expect a running game all throughout the competition.
Russia is the host of this tournament and as such, everyone knows they have the country and fans to give them enough boost to perform and hold their opponents down. Germany in FIFA World Cup 2006 was spectacular and achieved more than anyone expected, don’t count this team out.
Brazil and Russia should advance.
Group B – Canada, China, Finland, Nigeria
Canada is a talented team whose teamwork is fearsome as nine of their players work together for Vancouver Whitecaps, led by another strong leader in Sophie Schmidt, this team should have enough strength to get past other teams.
China will be banking on the pride of Ma Xiaoxu to lead their country back to glory after finishing runner-up in the last U-19 championship in Thailand and being crushed in recent tournaments. They proved they can do it before and will be watched with keen interest how much of that glory shall be restored in Russia 2006.
Finland will rely much on striker Linda Sallstrom to carry the scoring load for them, how the midfielders get the ball to her will be the key to their bid in Russia 2006.
South Africa countries are becoming stronger and better and with Nigeria living up to this trend with a string of impressive showings, they unrivaled speed on the field is going to give any team something to fear.
Canada and Nigeria should advance.
Group C – Germany, Korea, Mexico, Switzerland
Germany is a highly technical team and with a core of players in Okoyino Da Mbabi and Anna Blaesse, and Josephine Schlanke, the defending World Champions is expected to contend for the title.
North Korea have the experience and depth but a steady above average performance in past competitions is not enough to win big games.
Mexico is going to give a very good fight with child prodigy Verónica CharlÃn Corral expected to end as the highest scorer in the tournament following her performance in CONCACAF tournament after finishing on top of all scorers.
Switzerland is going to be the feeder of this group where everyone is looking to gain a point from them. They don’t have the playmakers to make striker Vanessa Burk effective.
Germany and Mexico should advance.
Group D – Argentina, Congo, France, USA
US boasts one of the best defensive teams in the tournament led by captain Stephanie Lopez and at the same time the most dangerous offensive trio as well in Lauren Cheney, Jess Rostedt and Amy Rodriguez. One thing is certain for this country — they are no were near their pathetic counterparts.
Congo is the youngest team in the tournament with great talent led by striker Vumongo Nzuzi; but their lack of experience will probably cost them the group stage.
France is one of the favorites in this tournament with a solid squad led by Sarah Bouhaddi, Elodie Thomis and Louisa Necib. France is in the same breathe as of Brazil in Football and this team may just blow past everyone to claim the title.
Argentina is an exciting player and people will be watching 14 year old Amancay Urbani to shine with the guidance and leadership of their solid playmaker and captain Florencia Quiñones.
US and France should advance.
[tags]FIFA U-20 Women’s World Championship[/tags]
GERMANY is simply the best. i love them, they’re gonna win the trophy again.