The reigning Olympic champions Canada are gearing up to begin their title defense as they face New Zealand in their opening match of the Paris 2024 women’s football tournament. The Group A clash is set to take place at Stade Geoffroy-Guichard in Saint-Etienne on July 25.
Team News, Injury, and Lineups
Canada Possible starting Lineup: Buchanan, Awujo, Riviere, Lacasse, Leon, Rose, Fleming, Sheridan, Huitema, Lawrence, Gilles
New Zealand Possible starting Lineup: Steinmetz, Clegg, Bott, Kitching, Taylor, Riley, Hand, Green, Bowen, Stott
Canada suffered a blow in their preparations when Sydney Collins fractured her leg in a recent training match against Nigeria. Gabrielle Carle has been promoted from the reserves to replace her. Veteran midfielder Desiree Scott has also been added as an alternate.
New Zealand’s squad features a mix of youth and experience. Ten players will be making their Olympic debuts, including promising youngsters Milly Clegg, Macy Fraser and Katie Kitching. They’ll be supported by seasoned campaigners like Katie Bowen, Meikayla Moore, Ali Riley and Rebekah Stott.
Form Guide and Recent Results
Canada have shown good form in their Olympic preparations. They defeated Nigeria 1-0 and Australia 2-1 in recent friendlies. Their last competitive match was a penalty shootout loss to the USA in the SheBelieves Cup final in April.
New Zealand have struggled for consistency lately. They drew 1-1 with Zambia and suffered back-to-back losses to Japan (2-0 and 4-1) in their warm-up matches. Their last win came against Thailand (4-0) in April.
Head-to-Head Record
The historical record heavily favors Canada in this matchup. In their last five meetings, Canada have won four times with one draw. Their most recent encounter in October 2021 saw Canada cruise to a 5-1 victory.
Key Players to Watch
For Canada, keep an eye on Jessie Fleming. The Chelsea midfielder pulls the strings in midfield and will be crucial to Canada’s attacking play. Up front, Jordyn Huitema could pose a major threat with her clinical finishing.
New Zealand will look to Katie Bowen for leadership and stability in defense. In attack, young forward Milly Clegg could be their x-factor, bringing pace and unpredictability to trouble the Canadian backline.
Where to Watch (Live Stream)
Fans in the USA can catch the action live on Peacock, with Spanish language coverage available on Telemundo Deportes En Vivo and UNIVERSO. Canadian viewers can tune in via CBC Sports App, cbcsports.ca, or CBC.
Live Stream and TV Schedule for Other Countries:
- UK: discovery+, discovery+ App, EuroSport Player UK, EuroSport 1 UK
- Australia: Stan Sport, 9Now
- France: Eurosport Player France, MAX
- Germany: Eurosport Player Deutschland
- Italy: Eurosport Player Italy
- Spain: Eurosport Player Spain
- Brazil: Zapping, Claro TV+, Sky+, SporTV 4
Match Prediction
While New Zealand will be eager to make their mark, Canada’s quality and experience give them a clear edge. Expect the Olympic champions to control possession and create more chances.
Canada Women vs New Zealand Women Prediction: Canada 2-1 New Zealand
This opening clash will set the tone for both teams’ Olympic campaigns. Canada will aim to make a statement and build momentum for tougher challenges ahead, while New Zealand hope to prove they can compete with the world’s best on the Olympic stage.
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