Spain v Netherlands
Friday, 1pm, Wellington
Spain come in following a 5-1 (own goal) thumping of the Swiss to advance. Midfielder Teresa Abelleira has provided good supply to her troops, swinging in 36 crosses. But the Netherlands have been strong all tournament, with Jill Roord controlling the scoring in the middle with four goals. They are packed with weapons across the pitch, but will be without star midfielder Danielle van de Donk, who picked up another yellow card in their round 16 game.
Japan v Sweden
Friday, 7.30pm, Auckland
Japan have been fan-favourites throughout the tournament — and have the statistics to back up their star power. The only former World Cup champions remaining have magic in droves, with Hinata Miyazawa scoring five goals and the electric Mina Tanaka having 13 attempts and three assists. Sweden’s confidence will be sky high after they downed defending champions United States 5-4 in a penalty shoot out, with Lina Hurtig’s goal creeping over the line by the slimest of margins.
Australia v France
Saturday, 7pm, Brisbane
Australia has been bolstered by the return of Sam Kerr, who received an almighty roar when she entered as a replacement against Denmark. But Hayley Raso has been a fabulous finisher for the Matildas, with three goals, and keeper Mackenzie Arnold has kept their opposition out more often than not. France thumped Morocco 4-0 on Wednesday and looked good. Kadidiatou Diani has been sublime for the French, scoring four goals from 16 attempts and providing three assists.
England v Colombia
Saturday 10.30pm, Sydney
Colombia have already created history for their country, advancing to the quarterfinals for the first time. Catalina Usme scored against Jamaica, becoming her team’s leading goal scorer (three) and Colombia’s first at the knock-out stage of a World Cup. England will be without in-form Lauren James, who has been suspended following her red card for stomping on Nigeria’s Michelle Alozie during their round of 16 game on Tuesday. Showed plenty of grit with only 10 players against Nigeria and will take heart from standing up to win the penalty shoot out 4-2.
