Japan vs Norway Women – In the eagerly awaited FIFA Women’s World Cup round of 16 encounter on August 5, 2023, Japan Women will lock horns with Norway Women at Wellington Regional Stadium. As the tension builds for this high-stakes match, fans around the world eagerly anticipate witnessing these two football powerhouses clash on the pitch.
Japan Women’s Dominance in Group Stage
The Japanese women’s team has showcased an awe-inspiring performance in the group stage, capturing three wins with an astounding tally of 11 goals while keeping a clean sheet in all their matches. This flawless display of football has solidified Japan’s reputation as a formidable force in women’s football. Having previously won the FIFA Women’s World Cup in 2011 and finishing as runners-up in 2015, Japan is determined to reclaim the title this year.
Norway Women’s Path to the Round of 16
In contrast, Norway Women faced a more challenging journey through the group stage, securing a spot in the round of 16 by finishing second in Group A. Although they managed to score six goals, their defensive record was less impressive. Nonetheless, Norway’s attacking prowess, combined with their history of winning the FIFA Women’s World Cup in 1995, UEFA Women’s Euro, and the Olympic Games, makes them a formidable opponent.
Head-to-Head and Key Players
In previous encounters, Japan has held the upper hand against Norway, most notably with a dominant 4-1 victory in their last clash. This historical advantage may serve as a psychological boost for the Japanese team. Japan’s attacking line, led by Hinata Miyazawa, who currently tops the competition’s scoring charts with four goals, along with Mina Tanaka and Riko Ueki, poses a significant threat to Norway’s defense.
Norway’s Sophie Haug, with her exceptional speed and goal-scoring ability, will be the key player to watch out for. Her remarkable hat-trick against the Philippines has shown her form and determination to make a significant impact on this crucial knockout encounter.
Predictions and Betting Tips
With Japan’s flawless performance in the group stage, they come into the match as favorites. Their formidable attacking lineup and individual brilliance set them apart. The odds are in favor of Japan Women progressing to the quarter-finals.
Prediction: Japan Women to win
Japan vs. Norway Same-Game Parlay
For those seeking more excitement and potential rewards, consider the following same-game parlay:
- Japan Over 1.5 Team Total Goals: Japan’s relentless attacking style is likely to yield at least two goals in this match.
- Hinata Miyazawa Over 0.5 Shots on Target: With her prolific goal-scoring form, Miyazawa is expected to create multiple opportunities on target.
- Both Teams to Score – NO: Japan’s strong defense, led by goalkeeper Ayaka Yamashita, is likely to keep Norway at bay and secure a clean sheet.
Japan vs. Norway Side and Over/Under Analysis
Sportsbooks have placed Japan as the favorites with a -128 moneyline, while Norway sits as the underdogs at +375. The match’s over/under line is set at 2.5 goals, indicating the potential for an exciting and competitive game.
Japan’s dominant performance in the group stage, coupled with their attacking prowess, makes them a compelling team to back. Conversely, Norway’s defensive resilience, with two clean sheets in the group stage, presents a challenging task for Japan’s attacking line.
Match Details:
- Series: FIFA Women’s World Cup 2023
- Match Between: Japan Women vs Norway Women
- Date: 5th August 2023
- Time: 1:30 pm (IST)
- Venue: Wellington Regional Stadium
Japan Women Team Squad
Saki Kumagai, Hikaru Naomoto, Mina Tanaka, Chika Hirao, Shiori Miyake, Risa Shimizu, Hina Sugita, Yui Hasegawa, Fuka Nagano, Moeka Minami, Kiko Seike, Momoko Tanaka, Hinata Miyazawa, Riko Ueki, Hana Takahashi, Remina Chiba, Jun Endo, Miyabi Moriya, Honoka Hayashi, Ayaka Yamashita, Maika Hamano, Rion Ishikawa and Aoba Fujino
Norway Women Team Squad
Maren Mjelde, Emilie Haavi, Guro Pettersen, Anja Sonstevold, Guro Reiten, Caroline Graham Hansen, Ada Hegerberg, Guro Bergsvand, Amalie Eikeland, Karina Saevik, Vilde Boe Risa, Aurora Mikalsen, Cecilie Fiskerstrand, Tuva Hansen, Marit Lund, Frida Maanum, Ingrid Syrstad Engen, Sophie Haug, Thea Bjelde, Anna Josendal, Julie Blakstad, Mathilde Hauge Harviken and Sara Iren Lindbak Horte