The FIFA Women’s World cup has produced a lot of upsets since the expansion of the tournament currently holding in Australia and New Zealand. In a shocking turn of events, heavyweights Germany, Canada and Brazil have crashed out of the tournament after failing to qualify from the group stage of the ongoing FIFA women’s world cup. These three teams, known for their strong performances and domination in women’s football, were expected to be strong contenders for the trophy. However their early exits have left fans and experts alike stunned.
Women’s World Cup 2023 Major Upsets
Olympic champions, Canada, saw themselves in a very tight situation when they failed to beat Nigeria in their opening game. Nigeria’s resilience and penalty save ensured that the Olympic champions had a tough road in order to secure qualification out of group B. The Canadian’s had a slim 2-1 victory over tournament debutants Ireland but wasn’t enough when they learnt Nigeria had defeated host nation Australia 3-2 which is one of the major upsets in the ongoing FIFA Women’s world cup.
The Canadians were left with an uphill task to beat host nation Australia in order to seal qualification for the second round. The Olympic champions were pummeled 4-0 by the Matildas, who finished top of the group followed by Nigeria who finished second ahead of Canada after picking up a draw against Ireland. Canada had high hopes of making a deep run in the competition, as Olympic champions, they were considered strong contenders. However, their dreams were shattered when they failed to beat Australia and the disappointed was very palpable.
FIFA Women’s World Cup: Germany Crash Out
Germany, two-time champions of the FIFA women’s world cup, 2003 and 2007, have always been a force to be reckoned with in women’s football. They have consistently displayed exceptional skills, tactical prowess and a winning mentality. However their journey in the 2023 competition came to an abrupt end when after they lost to eventual group winners Colombia and needed to beat South Korea but were held to a draw.
Despite their flying start in the opening game against Morocco with a 6-0 victory, they were unable to secure the needed points to book a place in the round of 16 falling short of fan’s expectations. Morocco, tournament debutants qualified for the next round in second place behind France who finished as group winners. The Alas lionesses, after their opening heavy defeat, secured six points after beating Colombia and South Korea to advance to the knock out phase.
Similarly, Brazil a perennial powerhouse in women’s football, also suffered an unexpected exit from the tournament. Known for their flair, skill and attacking prowess, the Brazilian team has always been a fan favorite. However, their journey in the FIFA women’s world cup ended in the group stage. They were held in a goalless draw by a Jamaican side who made history by qualifying for the knock out rounds for the first time ahead of the Brazilians.
The Brazilians started the tournament on a winning note defeated Panama, falling to France and then needed a win against Jamaica to advance but the reggae girls had other plans. Despite having some of the world’s best players in Marta and Debinha, they failed to find their rhythm and were unable to progress further.
The elimination of these heavyweights has not only surprised fans but has also opened up the tournament, making way for underdogs to shine. It highlights the unpredictable nature of football and the importance of performing consistently at the highest level. While their exit may be disappointing for their fans, It showcases the growth and development of women’s football worldwide.
The competition has become more intense, with teams from various regions improving their game and challenging traditional powerhouses. This shift in the balance of power is a positive sign for the overall growth and competitiveness of the sport.
As the tournament progresses, new favorites will emerge and the remaining teams will battle it out for the ultimate prize. In the end, The FIFA women’s world cup 2023 will not only be remembered not only for the elimination of heavyweights but also for the rise of new contenders and the thrilling matches that lie ahead. Football fans around the world eagerly await the remaining matches, hoping to witness more surprises, upsets, and moments of brilliance that make the tournament truly special.