The round-of-sixteen action at the 2023 FIFA Women’s World Cup will commence on Saturday, as Switzerland prepare to face Spain. With la Nati storming to victory in Group A, they had been drawn against la Roja to kickstart their knockout journey – with Jorge Vilda’s side having finished second in their group following a 4-0 defeat to Japan.
Spain had been billed as one of the favourites to win the tournament ahead of the action getting underway in Australia and New Zealand, and they looked set to live up to that hype with two comfortable performances against Costa Rica and Zambia.
But that defeat to the Nadeshiko did instil doubts regarding Spain’s ability to truly challenge the stronger teams, with Jorge Vilda’s side looking well beaten. They’d look to get back on track and return to winning ways against this Swiss outfit, who perhaps over-performed in Group A.
La Nati have certainly struggled for goals thus far, scoring just twice – with both of those coming against the Philippines in their opening game. That would be their only win in the group stages though, as they limped to uninspiring goalless draws against Norway and New Zealand.
Team news
Inka Grings is expected to name an unchanged starting eleven for this clash.
Ivana Andrés will likely return to the back four for Spain, having missed their match against Japan through injury.
Predicted lineups
Switzerland: Thalmann; Aigbogun, Maritz, Stierli, Riesen; Sow, Wälti, Reuteler; Piubel, Bachmann, Crnogorčević
Spain: Misa; Batlle, Paredes, Ivana, Carmona; Bonmati, Abelleira, Putellas; Paralluelo, Caldentey, Hermoso
Where can I watch?
Kick-off in Auckland is scheduled for 06:00am on Saturday, 5th August 2023. The match will be broadcast live on BBC One and BBC iPlayer. If you’re unable to watch the match, fear not – we’ll have a detailed match report published within minutes of the final whistle.
