There will be no three-peat! Lina Hurtig’s penalty kick, after a scoreless draw through regular and extra time, lifted Sweden past the United States and ended the American’s run to a third straight title. The Swedes will now face Japan in the quarter-finals, while the U.S. will pack up and make the long trip home. Monday’s action will see two more teams punch their ticket to the final eight, with a chance to take the now vacant crown.
Monday’s Best 2023 FIFA Women’s World Cup Picks
Odds courtesy of FanDuel Sportsbook
England vs. Nigeria
The English side ripped through their group, outscoring their opposition 9-1 in three matches. The Three Lionesses may find offense a little harder to come by in the knockout round, however. Nigeria surrendered just two goals, both in a win over host Australia, in group play, and has shown they belong. In the end, it should be Lauren James and company moving on.
The Pick: Anytime Goalscorer €“ Lauren James (+180)
Australia vs. Denmark
The co-hosts have clearly been bolstered by the support of the home crowd. That doesn’t mean they haven’t earned this spot in the knockout round. Five different members of the Australian squad found the back of the net in group play. Things will get a little more difficult now, considering they draw Denmark in the round of 16. Lene Christensen has 17 saves in three matches while surrendering just one goal. If the lone remaining host is going to advance, they’ll have to solve the puzzle that is the 23-year-old Christensen.
The Pick: Denmark (+176)
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