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Make this in summer when the tomatoes are at their best,” suggests Imad Alarnab. “The better the tomato, the better this will taste, so splash out and get the good ones.” Heritage tomato, fennel and dukkah salad Serves: 2 as a main or 4 as a side Ingredients: 1 fennel bulb 2 tbsp olive oil 1 tsp za’atar 300g assorted heritage tomatoes, cut into chunks 2 tbsp good-quality extra virgin olive oil Grated zest and juice of ½ lemon 2 tbsp dukkah 150g soft goat’s cheese Small handful of fresh tarragon leaves Salt Method: 1. Preheat the oven to 200C/fan 180C/gas 6. 2. Cut the fennel bulb into 6-8 wedges, depending on how large your fennel is. Toss in the olive oil, za’atar and salt to taste, place on an oven tray and roast for 25-30 minutes until soft, slightly crisp and golden. Set aside to cool slightly. 3. Toss the tomatoes in a little salt and the extra virgin olive oil, lemon zest and juice, and dukkah. Roughly crumble the cheese and place on a large serving plate, followed by the roasted fennel and then the tomatoes. Finish with the tarragon leaves. Imad’s Syrian Kitchen by Imad Alarnab (HQ, £26). Read More The National Portrait Gallery’s new restaurant is fabulous upgrade The dish that defines me: Alex Outhwaite’s Vietnamese bun cha 3 TikTok-approved recipes for picnic season Imad Alarnab: In Calais’ Jungle refugee camp, food restored our faith It’s easier to make baklava at home than you might think Make this Middle Eastern lamb shoulder for your next Sunday roast

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The Women’s World Cup is finally here as the biggest tournament ever kicks off in Australia and New Zealand. The first 32-team Women’s World Cup is set to be one of the most open yet, with a host of teams challenging to dethrone the two-time defending champions United States. England head ‘Down Under’ full of belief after their Euros success on home soil last summer, but that is also set to inspire co-hosts Australia and their star forward Sam Kerr. Here’s everything you need to know ahead of the 2023 Women’s World Cup, including group guides, players to watch, and how to follow on TV . Group guides Group A: New Zealand, Norway, Philippines, Switzerland Women’s World Cup history hangs over co-hosts New Zealand Group B: Australia, Republic of Ireland, Nigeria, Canada The inspiration behind Australia’s shot at home World Cup glory Group C: Spain, Costa Rica, Zambia, Japan Can Spain regroup from mutiny to challenge for the Women’s World Cup? Group D: England, Haiti, Denmark, China Who are the threats to the Lionesses at the Women’s World Cup? Group E: United States, Vietnam, Netherlands, Portugal Are the United States still the team to beat at the Women’s World Cup? Group F: France, Jamaica, Brazil, Panama Can France handle injuries after overcoming Women’s World Cup crisis? Group G: Sweden, South Africa, Italy, Argentina Can Sweden turn heartbreak into Women’s World Cup history? Group H: Germany, Morocco, Colombia, South Korea Germany are out for revenge - the World Cup is the perfect chance Players to watch New Zealand: If New Zealand are going to need something special to break their cycle of World Cup disappointment on home soil, don’t be surprised if they are inspired by the fearlessness of youth. The Football Ferns finished an impressive third at the Under-17 World Cup five years ago and striker Gabi Rennie, the team’s No 9, is a breakthrough prospect. Norway: It’s a testament to the skill, speed and elusiveness of Barcelona’s Caroline Graham Hansen that Guro Reiten isn’t even the most dangerous winger on the Norway team. Arguably the best dribbler in the game, the 28-year-old took a break from the international side following the Euros last summer but is now back to best - as Chelsea once again found out in this season’s Champions League. Switzerland: The smooth and composed Lia Walti draws the eye in the centre of midfield and the captain is the pillar of the side. “Lia is such a magnetic player. Everyone passes to her,” said the Switzerland head coach Inka Grings. “She always demands the ball and, when she has it, it sticks to her feet.” Philippines: Sarina Bolden took the most important kick in the history of the Philippines with the winning penalty against Chinese Taipei that secured their qualification for the World Cup. The Philippines will need more moments of history to make an impact in New Zealand. Australia: There’s no question about this. Sam Kerr is the face of the World Cup and the star of the Australia team. As the most lethal striker in the world, who always seems to deliver on the big occasion, the Chelsea forward could be the difference for the Matildas as they look to advance past the quarter-finals for the first time. The 29-year-old makes the hosts a genuine contender. Canada: Christine Sinclair has been setting records for most of her life. At 40, and now into the 22nd year of her international career, the striker is set to become the first player to play at six World Cups - although Brazil’s Marta could later equal that record this tournament. In Australia, Sinclair and Marta also have the chance to become the first player to score at six different World Cups. Nigeria: Asisat Oshoala doesn’t just have a claim to be the greatest African player in the world, but the best of all time. The Nigeria striker and Barcelona star has won the African player of the year award four times and has hit at least 20 goals in each of her last two seasons in Spain. The Super Falcons may have been drawn in the group of death, but Oshoala will be a threat to both Australia and Canada. Ireland: Katie McCabe. The Arsenal fan favourite famously wears her heart on her sleeve and embodies what Ireland will require in Australia: defensive nous, aggression, a lot of effort, and quality when it counts. McCabe has it all and alongside Denise O’Sullivan will be key. Spain: Aitana Bonmati. When an ACL injury robbed two-time Ballon d’Or winner Alexia Putellas of the chance to play at the Euros last summer and then took away almost all of the following season, it handed her international and club team-mate Bonmati the opportunity to play further forward for Barcelona. How she took it. Arguably the best player in the world over the past year. Japan: Yui Hasegawa. Signed by Manchester City last summer to replace England’s Keira Walsh, the 26-year-old impressed with her class and composure on the ball and tenacity in midfield, finishing the season as one of the top performers in the Women’s Super League. Japan will rely on Hasegawa to set their tempo from the middle of the pitch. Zambia: Barbra Banda made history at the 2021 Olympics when she became the first player to score back-to-back hat-tricks at the Games. The 23-year-old is captain of the Zambia side and is key to their chances of making it out of the group, as her stunning two-goal display against Germany before the tournament showed. Costa Rica: Raquel Rodriguez is Costa Rica’s record scorer with 55 goals, including the country’s first at a World Cup on their only previous appearance in 2015. The Portland Thorns midfielder, who has won over 100 caps for Costa Rica, has urged her team-mates to battle with passion and commitment as they look to claim a first-ever World Cup win. England: Keira Walsh was the player of the match in the Euros final and remains England’s most important player with her ability to set the team’s pace and tempo in midfield. Walsh moved to Barcelona last summer for what was said to be a world-record fee and after winning the Champions League on her first season at the club, the 26-year-old has returned to the Lionesses to set higher standards. Denmark: Pernille Harder is one of the top players in the world and will be a familiar face to England fans after three successful seasons spent in the Women’s Super League with Chelsea, who she joined for a world-record fee in 2020. The skillful and tireless attacker leads the line for Denmark, who cannot afford to leave her isolated. One of the game’s most decorated players, Harder will be making her World Cup debut. China: Captain Wang Shanshan is a wonder: a veteran striker with a tendency to score crucial goals, the 33-year-old can also help out defensively by playing at centre-back for the team. Haiti: There is considerable excitement around the 19-year-old Melchie Dumornay, who has signed a pre-contract with European powerhouse Lyon ahead of the new season. The midfielder scored twice as Haiti beat Chile in the inter-continental play-offs to qualify for the World Cup and is regarded as one of the best young players in the world. USA: Alex Morgan, the face of the US team and joint top scorer in France four years ago, is back for her fourth World Cup, arguably better than ever. Since helping the US to back-to-back titles, Morgan has given birth to her first child and at 33 is still scoring regularly in the NWSL. Netherlands: With Vivianne Miedema ruled out with an ACL injury, the Netherlands will turn to a relatively unknown prospect for goals. Fenna Kalma only made her international debut in September but comes into the World Cup having scored 30 goals in just 20 appearances for FC Twente last season. Portugal: Jessica Silva is a baller who belongs on the World Cup stage. The Benfica forward has a tall and languid style but is devastating on the ball and is one of the most skillful attackers in the game. Vietnam: As the only player in the Vietnam squad to play their football outside of the country and in Europe, striker Huynh Nhu will be familiar with some of her Group E rivals. The 32-year-old, who is Vietnam’s record goalscorer, plays for Portuguese side Lank Vilaverdense. France: With Marie-Antoinette Katoto and Delphine Cascarino out of the World Cup due to injury, more emphasis and responsibility will be placed on the shoulders of Kadidiatou Diani. The PSG forward, who can play across the front line, will need to support the returning Eugenie Le Sommer, France’s record goalscorer. Brazil: While Marta is very much the leader and inspiration in the Brazil team, keep an eye on the Barcelona forward Geyse, who troubled England in April with her quick turning and dribbling. Geyse has been linked with a move to the WSL and Manchester United in recent weeks. Jamaica: Khadija ‘Bunny’ Shaw scored 20 goals in 22 appearances in the Women’s Super League last season, second only to England’s Rachel Daly, and the Manchester City striker is a shining light in the Jamaica team. Shaw thrives on the responsibility. She is Jamaica’s record scorer, men’s or women’s, and her goals secured qualification to a second consecutive World Cup. Panama: Marta Cox is the captain of the side and stands as the inspirational force behind Panama’s qualification for the World Cup. The 25-year-old midfielder dedicated Panama’s victory against Paraguay in the inter-continental qualifiers to her late mother, who had passed away nine months earlier. Sweden: Converted into a left back by Barcelona, Fridolina Rolfo remains one of the most dangerous players in the world and is given full licence to attack by her national team. With a brilliant left foot and engine, Rolfo comes into the World Cup on a high after scoring the winning goal in last season’s Champions League final. South Africa: With key forward Thembi Kgatlana injured, Hildah Magaia scored a clinical brace as South Africa beat Morocco to win the women’s Africa Cup of Nations, their first major title. Magaia was also named player of the tournament and will be key to their hopes in Group G. Italy: Barbara Bonansea. The Juventus forward is a quality outlet on the wings and remains from the Italy team that reached the quarter-finals in France four years ago. The 32-year-old Bonansea has overseen a period of change this then, with the Italy domestic league turning professional in 2022 and a new generation coming through, but she remains just as important to her side. Argentina: Estefania Banini is a star for Atletico Madrid in Spain and made the FifPro World XI in 2021. The tricky wide midfielder has returned from injury a previous falling out with the national team and is set to be fit for what is expected to be her last World Cup at the age of 33. Germany: Alexandra Popp became the first player in Euros history to score in five consecutive games before her story took an unexpected twist, with injury ruling the 32-year-old out of the final against England. The Wolfsburg striker, who is driven by goals, is among the contenders for the golden boot. Morocco: Ghizlane Chebba was named player of the tournament as Morocco reached the final of the women’s Africa Cup of Nations for the first time, where they lost to South Africa. The 32-year-old scored three goals during the tournament and the captain of the Morocco team has become a star in her country. Colombia: The rise of Linda Caicedo has been extraordinary. The 18-year-old is set to star in the World Cup having played in both of the U-17 and U-20 World Cups in 2022, as well as the Copa America. There, Caicedo won the tournament’s Golden Ball and helped Colombia reach the final, before a big move to Europe beckoned. The midfielder chose Real Madrid, who have secured one of the biggest talents in the game. South Korea: Ji So-Yun was hailed as an “icon”, a “magician” and the “best international player in the WSL ever” by Chelsea manager Emma Hayes after she made the decision to bring eight years with the Blues to an end in 2022. Ji’s impact on Chelsea’s success under Hayes was clear, but the creative midfielder has created an even finer legacy in her own country. Ji is South Korea’s greatest ever player and record scorer, and this is set to be her last World Cup. How can I follow the Women’s World Cup? For UK viewers, every game will be available to watch on the BBC and ITV. For the BBC, there will be live coverage on television as well as the BBC Sport website with live audio commentary available on BBC Radio 5 Live, 5 Sports Extra and the BBC Sounds app. For ITV, live coverage will be available on television as well as online via ITVX. At present, the BBC and ITV have only announced the schedule for the group stages, although the BBC have said they will broadcast both semi-finals with the final available on both channels. Read More Why this Women’s World Cup will be unlike anything we’ve seen before England’s World Cup hinges on a defining question Women’s World Cup TV schedule: How to watch every match in UK What to expect at the Women’s World Cup 2023 Why this Women’s World Cup will be unlike anything we’ve seen before Five players set to star in the FIFA Women’s World Cup 2023

As the squads have been adjusting to Australia and New Zealand over the last few weeks, many coaches and staff members have been doing what the rest of the public does, bouncing around news stories about the different teams to see how they are doing. It is the point at which an international tournament takes on that enticingly self-contained quality. All eyes still go to the USA, especially with this being Megan Rapinoe’s last World Cup, and the squad looking to see her off with a historic third successive victory. As the defending champions themselves look around the field, though, they aren’t seeing what they used to. There is the usual confidence, of course, but also some caution. The gap between them and the rest of the teams isn’t as big. Rapinoe’s retirement may well close out a wider era, since the dominant factor in women’s football over the last decade has been how the USA have enjoyed much longer-term development than the rest of the game. That has been seen as especially influential as regards physical conditioning, but the general feeling is that the European game and Australia have caught up. England would certainly have no fears there, especially given how they beat the USA in that signpost match back in October. This could well be a threshold tournament. In many ways, of course, that’s the way to describe almost every women’s tournament at this stage of the game’s development. It is evolving at such a pace that every competition brings something new. Australia and New Zealand will still have had so much more than most when viewed from the perspective of history. It is fittingly the biggest ever, matching the men’s with 32 teams and spanning across two countries for the first time, just at a point when football cultures like England’s enjoy a boom of interest and Spain’s sees some of the best-attended fixtures on the planet. There’s then the joyous buzz around both New Zealand and Australia, the latter host nation looking to carry that emotional momentum all the way to the trophy itself. If ever there was a time for the tournament to expand, it’s now. That has still brought the counter-argument that it has expanded too quickly and it will merely create a group stage that is essentially a pre-tournament characterised by mismatches. There’s a real sense – not least among the eight to 12 teams genuinely believing they can go all the way - that the “real World Cup” won’t start until the last-16 in August. That is likely to be one cost of expansion, but the real question is whether it is outweighed by the value. That could be an emphatic yes, especially when you consider the value that can’t be measured. That is the excitement that is going to be felt in the competing countries, especially the eight debutants reaching this stage for the first time, or those unused to such a level. Put simply, new heroes and influences will be born. New memories will be created. That may seem trite, but you only have to look at last summer in England for the truth of it. There's nothing like the buzz that participation brings. Ireland are almost the perfect example in this sense. They form one of a burgeoning middle class of sides, between the favourites and the minnows, who are mostly hoping to develop in this campaign. There are so many banners put up around the country and the team have regularly been on television. Imagine this replayed a few times over, particularly in the Philippines and Morocco. Many traditional men’s football cultures feel the same. Argentina are desperate for a first win. Italy, Portugal and Denmark are seeking the next step up. This has played into the tournament’s second game perhaps being the biggest event of the opening stage. Australia-Ireland will hopefully set a tone in terms of atmosphere. Aside from launching what the hosts hope will be a victorious campaign, it has had immense interest from the huge Irish diaspora in the region. That has already seen it moved from Sydney Football Stadium to the 83,500-capacity Stadium Australia. It is a match to savour, for all sorts of reasons. It is also one that inadvertently points to some of the other challenges posed by this World Cup’s specific stage. As glorious as Australia and New Zealand are as hosts, there is the slight pity that it is this tournament that arrives just as Europe becomes so invested in the women’s game and so many of the continent's sides see themselves as winners. Their games will be far from prime time. That did play into the unfortunate delay on broadcasting rights in Europe, even if there was the sense that some broadcasters sought to cynically use this excuse to low-ball Fifa. Late-morning and afternoon kick-offs are still great for the many children that form the Women’s World Cup audience, given its more diverse demographics. It’s not just time that’s an issue, though. There’s the distance, which has meant Ireland are one of the few nations taking up anything close to their full allocations. Some sources within fan groups have been critical of the sales campaigns from both Fifa and federations, arguing they didn’t undertake anything like the same processes as with the men’s World Cup. “Some just didn’t bother selling tickets,” one connected figure says. “Others only gave fans a few days. There should be additional impetus for a women’s tournament, but it was the opposite. A collective failure.” The distance has played a part in another concern. It is hugely expensive for federations to travel. This has actually been mentioned in fractious negotiations between the Football Association and the England squad, as the players seek bonus payments that match similar elite nations in USA and Australia. Remarkably for a side that could win the whole competition, the issue has not been resolved as the World Cup starts, with Sarina Wiegman’s team merely willing to postpone discussions. The players have made the point that it just shows much still has to be fought for in the women’s game. South Africa and Nigeria have faced more extreme disputes. This is still one area where, for all justified criticism in so many other areas, Fifa do deserve the credit. The landmark stipulation that 60 per cent of prize money is guaranteed for each individual player is both game-changing and, in many cases, life-changing. It is again fitting for a tournament that feels new and is itself enriched by thrilling sporting vitality. There has never been a women’s World Cup as open as this. If the group stage may be characterised by mismatches, the knockouts are likely to be the complete opposite and feature an exhilarating concentration of quality and truly unpredictable games. USA remain the favourites but injury issues that have been an unfortunate addition to the general build-up – with so many ACL problems – have ensured they aren’t what they were. A powerful Germany now run them very close, leading a fine group of sides where the gaps between them are shorter and shorter. England of course defeated that German side in the Euro 2022 final, before going on to beat the world champions and have the assurance from that, even amid injury problems of their own. Spain are perhaps the most technically luscious team in the World Cup, France the most outrageously talented. Australia have many of those qualities and more, as Sweden and the Netherlands themselves seek to make strides forward. All of this is further fired by the kind of captivating storylines that really create great tournaments, as well as the moments that create memories. Rapinoe is one of a few greats bowing out, as Marta bestows her experience on an exciting young Brazilian generation, and Canada seek to suitably close the career of the great Christine Sinclair. Alexis Putellas, meanwhile, returns for Spain, determined to take command and take the chance of the kind of tournament she should have had at Euro 2022 before being denied by injury. That is framed by all the controversy around her squad and the refusal of some players to appear under coach Jorge Vilda. He may be looking to enjoy a redemption, as another male coach – the charismatic Herve Renard – becomes the first manager in history to participate in two World Cups in the space of a year. The Frenchman can take his home nation much further than he did a redoubtable Saudi Arabia in Qatar. The stage is really being set for the real stars, though. They are Putellas, Rapinoe, Sinclair, Netherlands’ Jill Roord, France’s Wendie Renard, Germany’s Alexandra Popp, Sweden’s Stina Blackstenius, USA’s Sophia Smith, Nigeria’s Asisat Oshoala and – maybe above everyone – home star Sam Kerr, all leading a supreme cast. Some will score goals that enter the archives. Some players will dazzle from out of nowhere. Others will suffer mishaps and misfortune. A precious few will enjoy those defining individual campaigns that decide their teams’ legacies and, ultimately, the tournament itself. This is what makes a World Cup. This one has factors like no other before. History will be made in numerous ways. For that grand conclusion, England are one of a few countries realistically dreaming of their first World Cup win. USA are going for an unprecedented third in a row. Most eyes remain on the champions. More eyes than ever are on the Women’s World Cup itself. Read More England’s World Cup hinges on a defining question England’s Lionesses park controversial bonus row on eve of Women’s World Cup Who are the threats to the Lionesses at the Women’s World Cup? Can France handle injuries after overcoming Women’s World Cup crisis? Can Spain regroup from mutiny to challenge for the Women’s World Cup? Are the United States still the team to beat at the Women’s World Cup?

A crowd-pleasing dish to serve up for a family meal or dinner party, Imad Alarnab’s Kataf Ghanam recipe hails from Syria. Kataf Ghanam (lamb shoulder) Serves: 4-6 Ingredients: For the marinade: 5 garlic cloves, grated 2 tbsp smoked paprika 1 tbsp mild Madras curry powder ½ tbsp ground black pepper 3cm piece of fresh ginger, grated 1 tbsp baharat (a spice mix blend) Juice of 1 lemon 1 tbsp tomato purée 2 tbsp red pepper paste Good pinch of salt 150ml olive oil For the lamb: 1.5-2kg lamb shoulder, bone in 10 garlic cloves, peeled 4 sprigs of thyme 4 sprigs of rosemary Method: 1. Mix together all the marinade ingredients in a large container. Rub the marinade all over the lamb so it’s completely covered. Cover and marinate in the fridge for a minimum of 4 hours, ideally overnight. 2. When you’re ready to cook, preheat the oven to 160C/fan 140C/ gas 3. 3. Take the lamb from the fridge, then get a high-sided oven tray and line with a layer of foil and a layer of baking paper, large enough to cover the lamb. Add the garlic and herb sprigs to the middle, followed by the lamb and all the marinade (you can also add onions, carrots or potatoes at this stage, if you like). Fold the foil and baking paper over the lamb like a parcel, then flip it over and wrap it again in another layer of foil so the lamb is tightly wrapped and there are no gaps. We want to cook the lamb in its own juices, so it’s really important that it’s completely covered at this stage. 4. Place in the oven and cook for 4 hours or until the meat is falling off the bone. Remove from the oven, unwrap, increase the temperature to 200C/fan 180C/gas 6 and roast until browned on top. Serve with kabsa rice or plain bulgur. ‘Imad’s Syrian Kitchen’ by Imad Alarnab (HQ, £26) Read More The National Portrait Gallery’s new restaurant is fabulous upgrade The dish that defines me: Alex Outhwaite’s Vietnamese bun cha 3 TikTok-approved recipes for picnic season Imad Alarnab: In Calais’ Jungle refugee camp, food restored our faith It’s easier to make baklava at home than you might think Get set for Wimbledon with top pastry chef’s strawberry recipes

Manchester United are in advanced talks with Atalanta over a deal for Rasmus Hojlund, with the Premier League club negotiating how much of the fee will be made up of add-ons. United are getting closer to an agreement for the No 9, and initial expectations that the price could be as high as £80million have been tempered. There is now hope that a deal can be struck for around £60m. That would bring a successful summer of recruitment in under budget and compliant with Financial Fair Play, with sales potentially allowing the purchase of Fiorentina’s Sofyan Amrabat in midfield. Contact has already been made there, and the basics of a deal have been set up. United are now much more advanced in their talks with Hojlund, 20, who has agreed personal terms and is excited about the prospect of going to Old Trafford this summer. That does not necessarily mean the signing will be imminent, however, as the nature of negotiations over intricacies and terms is expected to take time. There is nevertheless an increasing confidence that the move will be completed. Should it happen, Denmark international Hojlund would represent the first major striker to move this summer, in what is seen as the most competitive market of all. Read More More than ever, Man Utd must prove they are a ‘selling club’ Carey pays for haircut and Broad is sledged – Tuesday’s sporting social Marcus Rashford signs new five-year deal at Manchester United

Former Manchester City defender Benjamin Mendy has signed a two-year deal with French club Lorient. Mendy left Man City last month at the expiration of his contract, having not played for the Premier League and Champions League winners since 2021. The 29-year-old was cleared of rape and attempted rape at Chester Crown Court last week. Mendy, who progressed through Le Harve’s academy before establishing himself during three seasons at Marseille, joined City in 2017 for a reported fee of £52m after a solitary campaign with Monaco. He would go on to be involved in three Premier League title wins with Pep Guardiola’s side but his last appearance occurred during the opening game of the 2021-22 in defeat at Tottenham. Later that same month, Mendy was reprimanded in custody after being charged with four counts of rape and one count of sexual assault in August 2021. City suspended the French full-back, who was granted bail the following January but only after being charged with three more counts of rape. In May 2022, Mendy pleaded not guilty to seven charges of rape, one attempted rape and one sexual assault. The next month he was charged with another count of rape, and in September he was found not guilty on one charge of rape. Mendy was found not guilty of six counts of rape and one court of sexual assault in January, but the same jury could not reach a verdict on another count of rape and one count of attempted rape. It saw a retrial and last week Mendy was found not guilty of one charge of rape and one charge of attempted rape, which has allowed the defender to resume his professional career. Lorient finished 10th in Ligue 1 last season under Regis Le Bris and the player will begin work with his new club on Wednesday. “FC Lorient is pleased to announce today the signing for two seasons of French international left-back Benjamin Mendy,” a club statement read. “The native of Longjumeau, who will wear number five with the Merlus, will take his first steps at Espace FCL today. Welcome Benjamin!”

The world’s finest in women’s football have descended upon Australia and New Zealand for the ninth edition of the FIFA Women’s World Cup. Here, the PA news agency picks out five players who could shine at the global showpiece. Lauren James (England) The 21-year-old forward has both England fans and pundits alike buzzing after a stellar season with Chelsea, where she scored seven goals and provided two assists in 26 matches played across the Women’s Super League and Champions League. While the World Cup will be James’ first major international tournament, she has plenty of experience in high-stakes situations with Emma Hayes’ WSL and FA Cup-winning Blues. The one-time PFA Young Player of the Year nominee is aggressive and opportunistic with the ball while also displaying what often feels like effortless control, and says she is keen to carve out an identity separate to that of her older brother, Chelsea and England defender Reece James. This opportunity could well accelerate that mission. Trinity Rodman (USA) Rodman can no doubt relate to James – she is also a 21-year-old forward who is often mentioned in the same breath as her own famous relative, ex-NBA player dad Dennis Rodman. But the 2021 National Women’s Soccer League Rookie of the Year and 2022 Ballon D’Or nominee has more than earned her solo spotlight since she became, at age 18, the youngest player drafted into the NWSL. And last February she extended her stay at Washington Spirit with what was widely reported to be a league record-breaking USD1.1 million, four-year deal. Rodman seems to be in fine form ahead of the USA’s tournament opener against Vietnam after bagging a second-half brace in the Americans’ 2-0 win over Wales in a friendly earlier this month. Khadija Shaw (Jamaica) ‘Bunny’ Shaw will be a familiar face to many from her time with the WSL’s Manchester City, particularly after a 2022/23 season in which she finished second only to England and Aston Villa forward Rachel Daly for the most goals scored in the English top flight. The 26-year-old Reggae Girlz captain, who recently extended her stay at City until 2026, concluded her second season with 31 goals in 30 games and in the process became the highest-scoring women’s player across a single campaign in the club’s history. Shaw is the first Caribbean player to win the CONCACAF Women’s Player of the Year award, and Jamaica will rely on the skipper’s leadership when they embark on just their second World Cup finals in a difficult Group F that includes heavy-hitters Brazil and France alongside Panama. Sam Kerr (Australia) Prolific striker Sam Kerr is precisely the sort of player you want on your side in those dig-deep, do-or-die situations when the pressure is at its most intense. Fortunately for tournament co-hosts Australia, the 29-year-old back-flipping forward is one of their very own and could well be the weapon that ultimately deals the tournament-ending blow to two of World Cup debutants Republic of Ireland, Olympic champions Canada and Nigeria to send the Matildas into the knockout stage. Chelsea boss Hayes has heaped praise on the ‘FIFA 23’ cover woman for her steely focus until the final whistle, often paying off in result-deciding goals like the one that won the Blues this year’s FA Cup. Kerr also scored in England’s only loss under head coach Sarina Wiegman, a 2-0 upset for the Lionesses against Australia in their April friendly. Lena Oberdorf (Germany) Germany’s young midfield star will be looking for retribution after narrowly missing out Euro 2022 glory last summer, when her side lost 2-1 to England in their dramatic Wembley final, although she did walk away with Young Player of the Tournament honours. Though also just 21, the Wolfsburg talent will be making her second World Cup appearance, having made her debut in the 2019 French edition aged 17, where she sat school exams during the tournament. Known for taking initiative, winning back possession and her well-timed challenges, Oberdorf will be a key cog in a strong German side’s title hopes as one of the tournament favourites kick off their campaign with group H matches against Morocco, Colombia and South Korea. Read More Charity boss speaks out over ‘traumatic’ encounter with royal aide Ukraine war’s heaviest fight rages in east - follow live The numbers behind Australia’s decade of dominance as England draw Ashes Amber Barrett hoping Republic can follow example of Morocco’s men at World Cup Katie McCabe urges Republic of Ireland to harness spirit of underdog Down Under

Republic of Ireland forward Amber Barrett hopes her side can draw on the Moroccan men’s example and defy their proudly-worn underdog status at the World Cup. In October, Barrett was the woman who booked the Girls in Green’s trip to Australia and a maiden global showpiece when she netted the deciding goal with her first touch in the Republic’s 1-0 play-off victory, stunning Scotland at Hampden Park. The FIFA world number 22-ranked Republic face a tough challenge in Group B, opening their campaign on Thursday at a sold-out Stadium Australia against 10th-placed co-hosts the Matildas before facing Olympic champions Canada, ranked seventh, six days later. Barrett said: “I went through the World Cup groups a couple of days ago and there’s not really any other group that you’re saying, ‘Oh, I’d love to be in that group’, because all of the groups are difficult. “At the end of the day you’re at a World Cup, and you’re playing against the 32 best teams in the world. They’ve all qualified for a World Cup. Ranking and all that goes out the window. “Looking back to the men’s World Cup, it showed, Morocco getting to a semi-final, who would have said that was going to happen pre-tournament? “I think at this stage, we’re just really, really going to enjoy every moment of it, and it’s football. Anything can happen.” In Qatar, Morocco surprisingly emerged top of a group that included 2018 finalists Croatia alongside Belgium and Canada. The Republic wrap up Group B against Nigeria (40th), the top African side in this ninth edition of the Women’s World Cup. Barrett, whose Milford, County Donegal hometown moved Thursday’s Mass to accommodate the Girls in Green’s 1100 BST kick-off time, imagines it will all truly hit when she is standing on the pitch for the national anthems. She said: “I think I’m probably going to be very emotional. I think that’s going to be something that really takes everybody. “We had a referee course a couple of weeks ago, and the referee from FIFA said that when you hear your national anthem for the first time in major tournaments, a World Cup, it’s very, very special. “I think when we’re standing there singing ‘Amhran na bhFiann’ (‘The Soldier’s Song’) I think that’s really going to be a moment where everyone’s just like, ‘We’re here and we’re ready to go’.” The 27-year-old is eager to create new history with her side in Australia, but admits her part in getting the Republic here is something that will long linger. She added: “It’s funny, now we look back and after the game we’ve said we have such a long time to wait until we go to a World Cup and now we’re days away. “I think it definitely took me a long time to come off that cloud nine, because I think everybody was just, not shocked, but it was just like you were numb for a few days after. “It was one of those moments that I will happily never, ever forget, but I hope it’s also now one of those that over the next few weeks we make more memories to relive.” Read More Charity boss speaks out over ‘traumatic’ encounter with royal aide Ukraine war’s heaviest fight rages in east - follow live The numbers behind Australia’s decade of dominance as England draw Ashes Katie McCabe urges Republic of Ireland to harness spirit of underdog Down Under Football rumours: Leicester’s Harvey Barnes closing in on Newcastle move

Republic of Ireland captain Katie McCabe has urged the squad to harness the spirit of the underdog ahead of Thursday’s World Cup opener against Australia. The World Cup debutants begin their Group B campaign against the co-hosts, who are 12 places above them in the FIFA rankings and will be backed by the majority of the 80,000 crowd at Sydney’s Stadium. It will be only the second match between the nations but Ireland won 3-2 when they met back in 2021, thanks to a goal from Denise O’Sullivan, who has been declared fit for the fixture. McCabe, who overcome her own injury scare a fortnight ago, said: “Yeah, it is something as a small nation, you kind of carry that (underdog) title I guess. “We know we are debutants in the tournament, but we know what we want to do. We don’t want to just be happy to be here. “We want to compete and give Australia, Canada and Nigeria the hardest games possible. That will start tomorrow night and it is exciting. “We know what Australia have, they have quality all over the park but we also know what we can do.” We're Irish, we don't shy away from physicality. It is ingrained in us Ireland captain Katie McCabe Head coach Vera Pauw referenced their slogan ‘outbelieve’ when looking ahead to playing Australia and insisted they would not buckle under pressure after coming through stern examinations with Sweden, Finland and Scotland to qualify for a first-ever major tournament. “That word will end up in the dictionary because we outbelieve we can do something special here,” Pauw reiterated. “That is how we ended up here because we outbelieve and we did something that nobody expected, but we are realistic. “We are very realistic, otherwise you cannot succeed, but the key thing everybody will feel is we have no fear of failure. “We are a team who so far we did not collapse on the higher pressure, whether it was away in a record crowd with Sweden, away with a record crowd in Finland or at Hampden Park and in our stadium with record crowds.” The Girls in Green only arrived in Sydney this week, but were greeted by floods of Irish fans, with a large community based Down Under. Arsenal midfielder McCabe added: “It’s crazy to think we’re actually here. We landed only a short while ago in Sydney airport, greeted by a number of Irish fans, so it was really nice to see them there. “They are our home away from home, I guess and to see the numbers who have travelled, the pictures online of people here in Sydney, is really special. “I think the whole team feel that. Not just players but staff as well, the support we have from here and back home as well. No doubt we want to do the nation proud tomorrow night.” Pauw revealed: “We knew there would be fans, but again it is so heart-warming every time the way the Irish are reacting on us. It is not just being there, it is way they are there.” Meanwhile, Ireland have firmly put their friendly fiasco with Colombia behind them after 101-capped O’Sullivan was confirmed to be fit enough to face Australia. North Carolina Courage captain O’Sullivan suffered a soft tissue and bone bruise injury during a warm-up match on Friday with the South Americans that was aborted after only 20 minutes due to it being an “overly physical” contest. But Pauw confirmed: “Denise is fit, she will play.” McCabe concluded: “For us now it is full focus on Australia. We knew Colombia would be physical but it will be the case in every single game. “We’re Irish, we don’t shy away from physicality. It is ingrained in us.” Read More Charity boss speaks out over ‘traumatic’ encounter with royal aide Ukraine war’s heaviest fight rages in east - follow live Football rumours: Leicester’s Harvey Barnes closing in on Newcastle move ‘Empowered’ England won’t be distracted by bonus row, Lucy Bronze insists Schedule announced for 2025 British and Irish Lions tour of Australia

With four months to go until the World Cup, France were in crisis. Wendie Renard, the French captain, announced that she would not be playing in the tournament. Shortly afterwards, star forwards Kadidiatou Diani and Marie-Antoinette Katoto also withdrew from the team. In an interview, Diani explained that the players had “reached a point of no return” and said there was a lack of professionalism in the France squad, pointing the finger at the head coach Corrine Diacre. It was far from the first time that Diacre had been involved in a dispute with her players. This time, though, it was the final straw. After Noel Le Graet, the head of the French Football Federation (FFF) and key supporter of Diacre, resigned amid allegations of sexual harassment, Diacre was sacked from her position: the FFF said the “dysfunction” under Diacre was “irreversible”. With Diacre gone, France appointed Herve Renard - the head coach of Saudi Arabia at the men’s World Cup in Qatar. It pathed the way for Renard and Diani to return, as well as the country’s record scorer Eugenie Le Sommer and former captain Amandine Henry - two players who had previously been frozen out by Diacre. Crisis averted? Well, France will still be without Katoto and Lyon star Delphine Cascarino due to knee injuries, which are starting to add up elsewhere as well. Henry has also been ruled out and Lyon’s Selma Bacha was stretchered off as Les Bleues were beaten by Australia in their final warm-up game. But with Diacre gone and Renard in charge, there is optimism that the vibes in the France camp will not be destructive to their title chances this time around. Brazil will have something to say about that, however. Led by the legendary Pia Sundhage, who is attempting a brave cultural rest of the Selecao while bringing through a new generation of talent, Brazil will hope to beat France to top spot. Jamaica arrive at the World Cup on the back of a difficult build-up, which has seen the team criticise its governing body for a lack of support while crowd-funding accounts have been set up to cover costs. Panama will be making their first appearance at the Women’s World Cup. France Confirmed squad Goalkeepers: Solene Durand (Guingamp), Pauline Peyraud-Magnin (Juventus), Constance Picaud (PSG) Defenders: Selma Bacha (Lyon), Estelle Cascarino (Manchester United), Elisa De Almeida (PSG), Sakina Karchaoui (PSG), Maelle Lakrar (Montpellier), Eve Perisset (Chelsea), Wendie Renard (Lyon), Aïssatou Tounkara (Manchester United) Midfielders: Kenza Dali (Aston Villa), Laurina Fazer (PSG), Grace Geyoro (PSG), Lea Le Garrec (FC Fleury), Amel Majri (Lyon), Sandie Toletti (Real Madrid) Forwards: Viviane Asseyi (West Ham), Vicki Becho (Lyon), Kadidiatou Diani (PSG), Naomie Feller (Real Madrid), Eugenie Le Sommer (Lyon), Clara Mateo (Paris FC) Group fixtures (all times BST) Saturday 23 July: France vs Jamaica (11:00, Sydney) Saturday 29 July: France vs Brazil (11:00, Brisbane) Wednesday 2 August: Panama vs France (11:00, Sydney) Key player With Marie-Antoinette Katoto and Delphine Cascarino out of the World Cup due to injury, more emphasis and responsibility will be placed on the shoulders of Kadidiatou Diani. The PSG forward, who can play across the front line, will need to support the returning Eugenie Le Sommer, France’s record goalscorer. Le Sommer is an experienced member of the squad, alongside the captain Wendie Renard, who is playing in her final World Cup. The coach It’s been quite the year for Herve Renard, who will be taking charge at his second World Cup. The mastermind of Saudi Arabia’s win against Lionel Messi’s Argentina at the men’s World Cup in Qatar, Renard will now lead France into the women’s World Cup in Australia and New Zealand. Renard looks to have united the France camp after drawing a line on the controversial regime of Corinne Diacre. What are their chances? Les Bleues have been badly hit by injuries and although there is depth in attack and defence, the midfield is looking a weaker area of the side. Hosts last time out, France have reached the quarter-finals at their last two World Cups and made the Euros semi-finals last summer. Quarter-finals may be a realistic aim this time around. Brazil Confirmed squad Goalkeepers: Leticia Izidoro (Corinthians), Barbara (Flamengo), Camila (Santos). Defenders: Antonia (Levante), Bruninha (Gotham FC), Kathellen (Real Madrid), Lauren (Madrid CFF), Monica (Madrid CFF), Rafaelle (unattached), Tamires (Corinthians). Midfielders: Duda Sampaio (Corinthians), Kerolin (North Carolina Courage), Luana (Corinthians), Adriana (Orlando Pride), Ana Vitoria (unattached), Ary Borges (Louisville City). Forwards: Andressa Alves (unattached), Geyse (Barcelona), Nycole (Benfica), Bia Zaneratto (Palmeiras), Debinha (Kansas City Current), Gabi Nunes (unattached), Marta (Orlando Pride). Group fixtures (all times BST) Monday 24 July: Brazil vs Panama (12:00, Adelaide) Saturday 29 July: France vs Brazil (11:00, Brisbane) Wednesday 2 August: Jamaica vs Brazil (11:00, Melbourne) One to watch Brazil legend Marta is on the verge of history and could become the first player to score at six World Cups, men’s or women’s - with Canada’s Christine Sinclair also attempting to achieve the feat. But while Marta is very much the leader and inspiration in the Brazil team, keep an eye on the Barcelona forward Geyse, who troubled England in April with her quick turning and dribbling. Geyse has been linked with a move to the WSL and Manchester United in recent weeks. The coach Pia Sundhage has a long history with the World Cup. The Swede played at the first ever women’s World Cup in 1991, finishing third with Sweden, before leading the United States to the final as manager in 2011 (Sundhage also won two Olympic golds with the USA as coach). Now in charge of Brazil, Sundhage has attempted to bring a more pragmatic approach to traditional Brazilian flair, and wants her team to be defensively solid before striking their opponents on the counter-attack. What are their chances? Brazil warmed up for the World Cup by taking England to penalties in the Finalissima and beating Germany in April, so there is a sense of optimism developing that they could finally return to the latter stages of the tournament. Brazil have appeared at every women’s World Cup but have yet to reach the semi-finals since finishing as runners-up in 2007. The Selecao have been knocked out in the last-16 two World Cups in a row but they can go much further this time around. Jamaica Confirmed squad Goalkeepers: Rebecca Spencer (Tottenham), Sydney Schneider (Sparta Prague), Liya Brooks (Hawaii Surf) Defenders: Allyson Swaby (Paris St-Germain), Chantelle Swaby (FC Fluery 91), Konya Plummer (unattached), Deneisha Blackwood (GPSO 92 Issy), Satara Murray (Racing Louisville), Vyan Sampson (Hearts), Tiernny Wiltshire (unattached) Midfielders: Peyton McNamara (Ohio State), Drew Spence (Tottenham), Trudi Carter (Levante), Solai Washington (Concorde Fire), Atlanta Primus (London City Lionesses), Havana Solaun (Houston Dash) Forwards: Khadija Shaw (Manchester City), Jody Brown (Florida State), Tiffany Cameron (ETO FC Gyor), Kameron Simmonds (University of Tennessee), Paige Bailey-Gayle (Crystal Palace), Kiki Van Zanten (Notre Dame), Cheyna Matthews (Chicago Red Stars), Kayla McKenna (Rangers). Group fixtures (all times BST) Saturday 23 July: France vs Jamaica (11:00, Sydney) Saturday 29 July: Panama vs Jamaica (13:30, Perth) Wednesday 2 August: Jamaica vs Brazil (11:00, Melbourne) Star player Khadija ‘Bunny’ Shaw scored 20 goals in 22 appearances in the Women’s Super League last season, second only to England’s Rachel Daly, and the Manchester City striker is a shining light in the Jamaica team. Shaw thrives on the responsibility. She is Jamaica’s record scorer, men’s or women’s, and her goals secured qualification to a second consecutive World Cup. The 26-year-old has the firepower to trouble France and Brazil. The coach Lorne Donaldson was involved in Jamaica’s 2019 World Cup campaign and said he had to be convinced to return in 2022. “It’s a tough group,” he told Fifa of Jamaica’s draw. “But that’s why stories are written. People go in and try to change the narrative and a great story comes out of it.” What are their chances? Jamaica’s build-up has been arduous once again. In 2019, the team’s journey to the World Cup represented an incredible story, with Cedella Marley, the daughter of Bob Marley, helping to organise crowd-funding efforts to relaunch the disbanded Jamaica women’s team five years earlier. That historic qualification has unfortunately made little impact to those in power, with the ‘Reggae Girlz’ once again relying on crowd-funding help to cover costs. Players have been critical of the Jamaica Football Federation for a lack of support or even recognition. “Our questions go unanswered and our concerns unresolved,” a statement from the players last month said. Panama Confirmed squad Goalkeepers: Yenith Bailey (Tauro), Farissa Cordoba (Nanas), Sasha Fabrega (Independiente) Defenders: Carina Baltrip Reyes (Maritimo), Katherine Castillo (Tauro), Rebeca Espinosa (Sporting SM), Hilary Jaen (Jones College), Wendy Natis (America de Cali), Yomira Pinzon (Saprissa), Nicole de Obaldia (Herediano), Rosario Vargas (Rayo Vallecano) Midfielders: Laurie Batista (Tauro), Emily Cedeno (Tauro), Marta Cox (Pachuca), Schiandra Gonzalez (Tauro), Erika Hernandez (Plaza Amador), Natalia Mills (Alajuelense), Carmen Montenegro (Sporting SM), Aldrith Quintero (Alhama), Deysire Salazar (Tauro) Forwards: Lineth Cedeno (Sporting SM), Karla Riley (Sporting), Riley Tanner (Washington Spirit). Group fixtures (all times BST) Monday 24 July: Brazil vs Panama (12:00, Adelaide) Saturday 29 July: Panama vs Jamaica (13:30, Perth) Wednesday 2 August: Panama vs France (11:00, Sydney) Key player Marta Cox is the captain of the side and stands as the inspirational force behind Panama’s qualification for the World Cup. The 25-year-old midfielder dedicated Panama’s victory against Paraguay in the inter-continental qualifiers to her late mother, who had passed away nine months earlier. The coach Panama are led by the Mexican coach Ignacio Quintana, whose ambition has underpinned Panama’s success since taking charge in 2021. "Every day, every training session and every game is a unique opportunity to grow, and it’s one we are not going to waste,” he said. What are their chances? Panama have landed in a very tricky group and face opponents in France and Brazil who will be determined to go far. Recent results show how challenging progress to the knockouts will be, following a 7-0 defeat to Spain and a 5-0 loss to Japan. Read More The inspiration behind Australia’s shot at home World Cup glory Who are the threats to the Lionesses at the Women’s World Cup? Can Spain regroup from mutiny to challenge for the Women’s World Cup? ‘Empowered’ England won’t be distracted by bonus row, Lucy Bronze insists Germany and Alexandra Popp are out for revenge - the World Cup is the perfect chance Can Sweden turn heartbreak into Women’s World Cup history?

If you’ve won the past two World Cups, it seems fair to go into the next tournament with confidence. Naturally, the USA are comfortable in such a position. “Good luck with that,” Alex Morgan says in a pre-World Cup advert which centres around the topic of ‘how the rest of the world can stop the USA’. The four-time champions head into Australia and New Zealand on a high having formally signed their historic equal pay agreement last year - they filed their discrimination lawsuit against US Soccer before the previous World Cup in 2019. On the pitch, for the past eight years they’ve been the best, and they know it. But for how much longer? That will really be the defining question of this World Cup. At the Tokyo Olympics they were stunned by Sweden and then in the semi-finals by Canada, only finishing with a bronze medal. Last year, they lost three consecutive games to England, Spain and Germany. Europe, where the growth of women’s football has been driven by the European club game, is catching up. The USA squad is four years older: Morgan is 34, Megan Rapinoe, who will be retiring at the end of the season, is 37, and although several stars of the 2019 side remain, such as Rose Lavelle and Crystal Dunn, head coach Vlatko Andonovski’s squad contains 14 players who will be making their first appearances at the World Cup. There are two distinct generations in the squad, the old and the new, but it’s been some time since a USA team has been this inexperienced coming into a World Cup. Losing captain and centre-back Becky Sauerbrunn and star forwards Mallory Swanson and Catarina Macario to injury just months before the tournament were key blows, as well. But the flip side is it gives the next generation the chance to shine. There are high hopes for Sophia Smith, who is the reigning USA player of the year, while the youngest member in the squad is the 18-year-old forward Alyssa Thompson. The first pick in the NWSL Draft last year is a potential breakout star. The USA should progress comfortably, although a rematch of the 2019 final against the Netherlands is one of the best fixtures in the group stage. The Dutch still have an impressive array of talent at their disposal, despite losing their star forward Vivianne Miedema to an ACL Injury, but a repeat of the performance four years ago would be a surprise. Both Portugal and Vietnam will be making their World Cup debuts and face experienced campaigners having drawn the finalists from last time out. United States Confirmed squad Goalkeepers: Aubrey Kingsbury (Washington Spirit), Casey Murphy (North Carolina Courage), Alyssa Naeher (Chicago Red Stars) Defenders: Alana Cook (OL Reign), Crystal Dunn (Portland Thorns), Emily Fox (North Carolina Courage), Naomi Girma (San Diego Wave), Sofia Huerta (OL Reign), Kelley O’Hara (NJ/NY Gotham FC), Emily Sonnett (OL Reign) Midfielders: Savannah DeMelo (Racing Louisville), Julie Ertz (Angel City), Lindsey Horan (Lyon), Rose Lavelle (OL Reign), Kristie Mewis (NJ/NY Gotham), Ashley Sanchez (Washington Spirit), Andi Sullivan (Washington Spirit) Forwards: Alex Morgan (San Diego Wave), Megan Rapinoe (OL Reign), Trinity Rodman (Washington Spirit), Sophia Smith (Portland Thorns), Alyssa Thompson (Angel City), Lynn Williams (NJ/NY Gotham) Group fixtures (all times BST) Saturday 22 July: USA vs Vietnam (02:00, Eden Park) Thursday 27 July: USA vs Netherlands (02:00 local time, Wellington Regional Stadium) Thursday 1 August: Portugal vs USA (08:00 local time, Eden Park) Key player Alex Morgan, the face of the US team and joint top scorer in France four years ago, is back for her fourth World Cup, arguably better than ever. Since helping the US to back-to-back titles, Morgan has given birth to her first child and at 33 is still scoring regularly in the NWSL. With forwards Mallory Swanson and Catarina Macario, who would have competed for Morgan’s place in the side, out due to injury, the USA need their leader more than ever. The coach Vlatko Andonovski took over from Jill Ellis following the 2019 World Cup, faced with the task of taking a winning yet ageing team and transforming the squad. Perhaps there were always going to be bumps in the road and the 3-0 defeat to Sweden at the 2021 Olympics, which ended the team’s 44-match unbeaten run, was a sign of the challenge the Macedonian-American faces. Injuries before the World Cup have not helped. What are their chances? No other team comes close to the USA’s history in the World Cup. With titles in 1991, 1999, 2015 and 2019, they are looking to become the first country ever to win three World Cups in a row, men’s or women’s. As always, the expectation will be high. The US has the biggest following of any team at the tournament and anything less than a fifth World Cup will be considered to be a huge disappointment. The rise of the leading European teams, England, Spain, France and Germany, means the competition has never been greater. Netherlands Confirmed squad Goalkeepers: Daphne van Domselaar (FC Twente), Lize Kop (Ajax), Jacintha Weimar (Feyenoord) Defenders: Kerstin Casparij (Manchester City), Caitlin Dijkstra (Twente), Merel van Dongen (Atletico Madrid), Stefanie van der Gragt (Inter Milan), Dominique Janssen (Wolfsburg), Aniek Nouwen (AC Milan), Lynn Wilms (Wolfsburg) Midfielders: Jill Baijings (Bayer Leverkusen), Danielle van de Donk (Lyon), Damaris Egurrola (Lyon), Jackie Groenen (PSG), Wieke Kaptein (FC Twente) Victoria Pelova (Arsenal), Jill Roord (Wolfsburg), Sherida Spitse (Ajax) Forwards: Lineth Beerensteyn (Juventus), Esmee Brugts (PSV), Renate Jansen (FC Twente), Lieke Martens (PSG), Katja Snoeijs (Everton) Group fixtures (all times BST) Sunday 23 July: Netherlands vs Portugal (08:30, Dunedin Stadium) Thursday 27 July: USA vs Netherlands (02:00, Wellington Regional Stadium) Thursday 1 August: Vietnam vs Netherlands (08:00 local time, Dunedin-Stadion) One to watch With Vivianne Miedema one of a number of star players across the World Cup to be ruled out with an ACL injury, the Netherlands will turn to a relatively unknown prospect for goals. Fenna Kalma only made her international debut in September but comes into the World Cup having scored 30 goals in just 20 appearances for FC Twente last season. Whether Kalma can take the step up is another question, but Lieke Martens, Danielle van de Donk and Jill Roord will hope to provide her with plenty of service. The coach Having won the Euros in 2017 and reaching the World Cup final in 2019, Sarina Wiegman left big shoes to fill upon departing the Netherlands. Mark Parsons, the Englishman, did not last long after the Dutch were knocked out of the Euros last summer in the quarter-finals, but Andries Jonker appears to be a more natural fit. An assistant to Louis van Gaal at Barcelona and Bayern Munich, Jonker’s tactics appear to be inspired by his former boss. What are their chances? The Netherlands’ golden years under Wiegman and the amount of talent in Jonker’s squad have created the impression that the Dutch should be contenders in Australia and New Zealand this summer. It’s hard to read where the team are actually at, however. Results have been inconsistent over the past year and although they should reach the knockout stages without too many problems, their performance against the US should tell us more about their chances. Portugal Confirmed squad Goalkeepers: Rute Costa (Benfica), Ines Pereira (Servette), Patricia Morais (Braga) Defenders: Ana Seica (Benfica), Carole da Silva Costa (Benfica), Catarina Amado (Benfica), Diana Gomes (Sevilla), Joana Marchao (Parma), Lucia Alves (Benfica), Silvia Rebelo (Benfica) Midfielders: Ana Rute (Braga), Andreia Norton (Benfica), Andreia Jacinto (Real Sociedad), Dolores Silva (Braga), Fatima Pinto (Deportivo Alaves), Kika Nazareth (Benfica), Tatiana Pinto (Levante) Forwards: Ana Borges (Sporting CP), Ana Capeta (Sporting CP), Carolina Mendes (Braga), Diana Silva (Sporting CP), Jessica Silva (Benfica), Telma Encarnacao (CS Maritimo) Group fixtures (all times BST) Saturday 23 July: Netherlands vs Portugal (08:30, Dunedin) Thursday 27 July: Portugal vs Vietnam (08:30, Hamilton) Thursday 1 August: Portugal vs USA (08:00, Auckland) Star player Jessica Silva is a baller who belongs on the World Cup stage. The Benfica forward has a tall and languid style but is devastating on the ball and is one of the most skillful attackers in the game. The coach Francisco Neto has helped Portugal along its steady upward trajectory since taking charge in 2014. They enter their first World Cup ranked at their highest ever position of 21st in the world, but will be looking to show they should still be much higher. What are their chances? Portugal will look to soak up pressure and sit back on their defensive organisation before hitting on the counter-attack. It frustrated England in a 0-0 draw before the World Cup, and could trouble the USA and Netherlands. But this is undoubtedly a hard group. Vietnam Confirmed squad Goalkeepers: Tran Thị Kim Thanh (Ho Chi Minh), Khong Thị Hang (Than KSVN), Dao Thị Kieu Oanh (Hanoi) Defenders: Chuong Thi Kieu (Ho Chi Minh), Tran Thi Thu Thao (Ho Chi Minh), Tran Thi Thu (Ho Chi Minh), Hoang Thi Loan (Hanoi), Tran Thi Hai Linh (Hanoi), Le Thi Diem My (Than KSVN), Luong ThiThu Thuong (Than KSVN), Nguyen Thi My Anh (Thai Nguyen), Tran Thi Thuy Nga (Thai Nguyen) Midfielders: Nguyen Thi Tuyet Dung (Ha Nam), Nguyen Thi Bich Thuy (Ho Chi Minh), Tran Thi Thuy Trang (Ho Chi Minh), Ngan Thi Vạn Su (Hanoi), Nguyen Thi Thanh Nha (Hanoi), Thai Thi Thao (Hanoi), Duong Thi Van (Than KSVN) Forwards: Phạm Hai Yen (Hanoi), Vu Thi Hoa (Ho Chi Minh), Nguyen Thị Thuy Hang (Than KSVN), Huynh Nhu (Lank Vilaverdense) Group fixtures (all times BST) Saturday 22 July: USA vs Vietnam (02:00, Eden Park) Thursday 27 July: Portugal vs Vietnam (08:30, Hamilton) Thursday 1 August: Vietnam vs Netherlands (08:00 local time, Dunedin-Stadion) One to watch As the only player in the Vietnam squad to play their football outside of the country and in Europe, striker Huynh Nhu will be familiar with some of her Group E rivals. The 32-year-old, who is Vietnam’s record goalscorer, plays for Portuguese side Lank Vilaverdense. The coach The experienced coach Mai Duc Chung, taking charge of his first and last major tournament, will look to bring the defensive organisation that earned Vietnam their historic place in the World Cup finals. Vietnam are one of the youngest teams in the tournament, with the women’s team only formed in 1990. What are their chances? Vietnam are featuring in their first ever World Cup, men’s or women’s, and the size of their task is clear. The USA and the Netherlands are two of the most experienced sides at the tournament, while Portugal have quality they could only dream of. Vietnam have plenty of spirit but getting at least a point would be considered a success. Read More Who are the threats to the Lionesses at the Women’s World Cup? Can Spain regroup from mutiny to challenge for the Women’s World Cup? 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