Prediction: Japan to win
Stake: 11/10
Match date: July 5
Stadium: Augsburg
The last game of Group B between England and Japan is a chance for the British to ensure their participation in the quarter finals, while it’s a training ground for the Japanese to try out new tactics ahead of their quarter final game against either France or Germany. The two teams are currently top 2 in Group B, with Japan leading the way with 6 points, while Britain lags behind at 4 points. Nevertheless, the Brits have a safe, 3-point cushon in front of the mexicans. This means that a draw against the Asians tomorrow will buy them the ticket to the next round.
The first thing that comes to mind ahead of tomorrow’s game is the clash between these two teams in the 2007 edition of FIFA Women’s World Cup in China. Japan took the lead early in the game at 1-0, and only in the last 10 minutes of the game could the British score 2 (great) goals, bringing the score to 1-2. To their dispair, in added time the Japanese scored again and leveled the game. That gives England the reputation of never having defeated Japan, and Japan the reputation of never having beaten any European team.
The Japanese have a great weapon: their attack, which brought them 6 goals (6!) in the first two matches. And they only conceded one. Whereas the British have had to struggle at the midfield against both Mexico and New Zealand. This will be a crucial factor ahead of tomorrow’s game. And it is one that I think will seal the faith of the match. At odds of 11/10 for a Japanese victory, I’m willing to stake 3 units on it!