Prediction: both to score, o2.5
Stake:1/1, 3/5
Match day: July 9
Stadium: Wolfsburg
The winners of Group A, Germany will face Japan, runners-up of Group B in front of tens of thousands of spectators that are expected to attend on Wolfsburg arena tomorrow at 20.45 local time. Winner of the last two Women’s World Cup, Germany will face a team that has yet to defeat an European rival, but nevertheless ranked 4th best team in the world. The two teams’ last encounter was in 2008 in Beijing, when Germany won by 2-0.
Germany are the clear favorites ahead of this quarter final. First, because they are the tournament organizers, thus receiving much more support from the fans than any other team in the competition. Second, because they won the last TWO World Cups! And third, because they’re ranked as the second-best team in the world, after the USA. The Germans are in great shape, winning all 3 matches so far and smashing France 4-2 in their last game. Don’t put too much thought into the last game, some say. The French fought in 10 towards the end, and one of the goals was due to a penalty. Even so, the Germans are clearly strong, with 7 goals scored so far and aggressive possession strategies.
Japan is the underdog in this match. They come after a 2-0 defeat against England, which showed them how vulnerable the empty spaces in their defense are. With 6 goals scored and 2 victories until now, the Japanese have showed good teamwork and great attacking skills. Their defense though, when breached, can cancel out the attacking advantage. England proved it to them, and they have show Germany that they learned their lesson.
Both teams are great goalscorers, each having scored 6 or more goals so far. There is no reason why they shouldn’t bring that apetite to the quarter final game. Japan, with its speedy flank attacks is sure to create problems in the German defense. But if these attacks fail, the Japanese are vulnerable to the strong German midfield and its tactics. My betting tip and match prediction is for both teams to score. I’m staking 2 units on that at 1/1 odds on Bwin. Also, GO WITH THE OVER 2.5 at 3/5. I’m staking 3 more units on that!