2023 Women’s World Cup – A Team by Team Guide

by Luke Andrews, 5 July 2023

The Women’s World Cup is one of the most prestigious international football tournaments, showcasing the skills and talent of female football players from around the globe. This article will delve into the teams showcasing their ability on the biggest stage. For each team, we assess the manager, the star players, and the squads for the tournament.

The 2023 women’s World Cup, hosted by Australia and New Zealand, is set to unfold from 20 July to 20 August and will be one of the top sports betting markets of the summer. Group A comprises the host nation New Zealand, past victors Norway, first-time participants Philippines, and Switzerland. Here’s an in-depth look at the teams in this group.

New Zealand’s Team Profile

Jitka Klimkova, a 48-year-old former Czech Republic international defender, became the first woman to take on the full-time head coaching role for the Football Ferns in 2021. Before this, she had coached the New Zealand Under-17s, served as assistant coach to the U-20s and national team, and was part of the United States coaching team. Her ambition is to secure New Zealand’s first-ever World Cup victories.

Ali Riley is World Cup bound with this year’s co-host New Zealand 🇳🇿 pic.twitter.com/mwY9FKvcQi

— National Women’s Soccer League (@NWSL) June 30, 2023

The team’s captain, Ali Riley, a 35-year-old seasoned defender, earned her 150th cap in February. She has played for clubs like Chelsea and Bayern Munich. Born in America, she hosts a TV show on vegan cooking for athletes and moved to Los Angeles to play for Angel City in 2022.

Goalkeepers: Victoria Esson (Rangers), Anna Leat (Aston Villa), Erin Nayler (IFK Norrkoping).

Defenders: Liz Anton (Perth Glory), CJ Bott (Leicester City), Katie Bowen (unattached), Claudia Bunge (Melbourne Victory), Michaela Foster (unattached), Ali Riley (Angel City), Rebekah Stott (Brighton & Hove Albion), Daisy Cleverley (HB Koge).

Midfielders: Olivia Chance (Celtic), Betsy Hassett (Stjarnan), Annalie Longo (unattached), Ria Percival (Tottenham Hotspur), Malia Steinmetz (unattached).

Forwards: Milly Clegg (unattached), Jacqui Hand (Aland United), Grace Jale (unattached), Hannah Wilkinson (Melbourne City), Gabi Rennie (Arizona State University), Indiah-Paige Riley (unattached), Paige Satchell (unattached).

Norway’s Team Profile

Hege Riise, a 53-year-old former midfielder and Norway’s record appearance-maker with 188 caps took over as manager after Norway’s group-stage exit from Euro 2022. She was interim England coach before Sarina Wiegman took over and led Team GB at the Tokyo Olympics in 2021. She won Euro 1993, the 1995 World Cup, and gold at the 2000 Olympic Games as a player.

The team’s star player, Ada Hegerberg, 27, is the inaugural Ballon d’Or winner. Despite an injury-riddled season with French side Lyon, she remains one of the most formidable strikers in global football. She ended her five-year absence from international football before last year’s European Championship. However, Barcelona striker Caroline Graham Hansen could rival her for star status. The 28-year-old played a significant role in her club’s run to the Women’s Champions League title.

Goalkeepers: Cecilie Fiskerstrand (LSK Kvinner), Guro Pettersen (Valerenga), Aurora Mikalsen (Brann).

Defenders: Anja Sonstevold (Inter Milan), Mathilde Harviken (Rosenborg), Tuva Hansen (Bayern Munich), Maren Mjelde (Chelsea), Marit Bratberg Lund (Brann), Guro Bergsvand (Brighton), Thea Bjelde (Valerenga), Sara Horte (Rosenborg).

Midfielders: Ingrid Syrstad Engen (Barcelona), Vilde Boe Risa (Manchester United), Guro Reiten (Chelsea), Frida Maanum (Arsenal), Caroline Graham Hansen (Barcelona), Amalie Eikeland (Reading), Julie Blakstad (Manchester City), Emilie Haavi (Roma).

Forwards: Ada Hegerberg (Lyon), Sophie Roman Haug (Roma), Karina Saevik (Avaldsnes), Anna Josendal (Rosenborg).

Philippines’ Team Profile

Australian Alen Stajcic, 49, was appointed as the manager of the Philippines in October 2021. He led the team to the semi-finals of the 2022 Asian Cup, securing their first-ever World Cup qualification. The former midfielder had previously managed Australia, taking the Matildas to the quarter-finals of the 2015 World Cup and the 2016 Olympics before being dismissed over an “unsatisfactory” team environment in January 2019.

Tahnai Annis leads the Philippines as they make their #FIFAWWC debut. Will the team bring the heat? #KnowHerNameKnowHerGame https://www.showmax.com/ pic.twitter.com/MbsrE2rgg5

— ShowmaxPro (@ShowmaxPro) July 4, 2023

The team’s captain, Tahnai Annis, born in the United States, plays a vital role in the team as both a creator and goalscorer. The midfielder and set-piece specialist, who plays her club football in Iceland, made her international debut in 2018.

Goalkeepers: Kiara Fontanilla, Kaiya Jota, Olivia McDaniel, Inna Palacios.

Defenders: Maya Alcantara, Alicia Barker, Angela Beard, Reina Bonta, Malea Cesar, Jessika Cowart, Sofia Harrison, Hali Long, Dominique Randle.

Midfielders: Tahnai Annis, Ryley Bugay, Anicka Castañeda, Sara Eggesvik, Kaya Hawkinson, Eva Madarang, Jessica Miclat, Isabella Pasion, Quinley Quezada, Jaclyn Sawicki.

Forwards: Sarina Bolden, Isabella Flanigan, Carleigh Frilles, Katrina Guillou, Chandler McDaniel, Meryll Serrano.

Switzerland’s Team Profile

German Inka Grings, 44, took over as Switzerland’s manager in January, succeeding Dane Nils Nielsen. The legendary former striker, who scored 64 goals in 96 international appearances for Germany, won the European Championship twice as a player in 2005 and 2009. In 2019, she made history by becoming the first female coach in Germany’s top four tiers of men’s football after being appointed head coach of men’s fourth-division side SV Straelen.

Midfielder Lia Walti, who has made over 100 appearances for Switzerland, missed the end of the season with her club Arsenal due to injury but is expected to be fit for the World Cup. Her new coach Grings described her as a “magnetic player” and a “great leader”.

Goalkeepers: Seraina Friedli (Zurich), Livia Peng (Levante), Gaelle Thalmann (Real Betis).

Defenders: Eseosa Aigbogun (Paris FC), Luana Buhler (Hoffenheim), Viola Calligaris (Levante), Laura Felber (Servette), Noelle Maritz (Arsenal), Lara Marti (Bayer Leverkusen), Nadine Riesen (Zurich), Julia Stierli (Zurich).

Midfielders: Amira Arfaoui (Bayer Leverkusen), Sandrine Mauron (Servette), Seraina Piubel (Zurich), Geraldine Reuteler (Eintracht Frankfurt), Marion Rey (Zurich), Coumba Sow (Servette), Lia Walti (Arsenal).

Forwards: Ramona Bachmann, (Paris St-Germain), Ana Maria Crnogorcevic (Barcelona), Fabienne Humm (Zurich), Alisha Lehmann (Aston Villa), Meriame Terchoun (Dijon).

Women’s World Cup 2023 – Group B

Group B comprises co-hosts Australia, Canada, first-time participants Republic of Ireland, and Nigeria. Here’s a detailed examination of the teams in this group.

Australia’s Team Profile

Swedish manager Tony Gustavsson has been leading the Matildas since 2020. The 49-year-old is renowned for steering Tyreso to the Women’s Champions League final in 2014, where they narrowly lost 4-3 to Wolfsburg. This achievement was sandwiched between two stints as assistant manager of the United States, which included two World Cup victories in 2015 and 2019.

Sam Kerr ended the press conference in the best way possible 😤

“Whatever it takes to win.”

Mic drop 🎤#FIFAWWC #OptusSport pic.twitter.com/6YtFLgeUjO

— Optus Sport (@OptusSport) July 5, 2023

The team’s star player is undoubtedly Sam Kerr. The 29-year-old Chelsea forward is a marquee player for the tournament and is one of the most feared finishers in the sport. She has scored 63 goals in 120 caps and enters the World Cup after helping Chelsea secure a Women’s Super League and FA Cup double.

Goalkeepers: Mackenzie Arnold (West Ham), Teagan Micah (Rosengard), Lydia Williams (Brighton).

Defenders: Ellie Carpenter (Lyon), Steph Catley (Arsenal), Charlotte Grant (Vittsjo GIK), Clare Hunt (Western Sydney Wanderers), Alanna Kennedy (Manchester City), Aivi Luik (BK Hacken), Courtney Nevin (Leicester City on loan from Hammarby), Clare Polkinghorne (Vittsjo GIK).

Midfielders: Alex Chidiac (Racing Louisville), Kyra Cooney-Cross (Hammarby IF), Katrina Gorry (Vittsjo GIK), Emily van Egmond (San Diego Wave), Clare Wheeler (Everton), Tameka Yallop (SK Brann).

Forwards: Caitlin Foord (Arsenal), Mary Fowler (Manchester City) Sam Kerr (Chelsea), Hayley Raso (Free agent), Kyah Simon (Free agent), Cortnee Vine (Sydney FC).

Canada’s Team Profile

English manager Bev Priestman, 37, is at the helm of Canada, one of the dark horses for the World Cup. Priestman was assistant manager under former boss Phil Neville as the Lionesses reached the World Cup semi-finals in 2019 before transitioning into management with Canada a year later. Her crowning achievement has been guiding Canada to a gold medal at the delayed Olympic Games in Tokyo.

At 39 years old, Christine Sinclair may not be in her prime, but her record is impressive. With 190 goals in 323 caps, no one has scored more times in international football. She has 10 World Cup goals and has scored in all five tournaments she has participated in.

Goalkeepers: Sabrina D’Angelo (Arsenal), Lysianne Proulx (SCU Torreense), Kailen Sheridan (San Diego Wave).

Defenders: Kadeisha Buchanan (Chelsea), Allysha Chapman (Houston Dash), Vanessa Gilles (Lyon), Ashley Lawrence (Paris St-Germain), Jayde Riviere (Manchester United), Jade Rose (Harvard University), and Shelina Zadorsky (Tottenham).

Midfielders: Marie-Yasmine Alidou D’Anjou (Famalicao), Simi Awujo (University of Southern California), Jessie Fleming (Chelsea), Julia Grosso (Juventus), Quinn (OL Reign), Sophie Schmidt (Houston Dash), and Desiree Scott (Kansas City Current).

Forwards: Jordyn Huitema (OL Reign), Cloe Lacasse (Benfica), Clarissa Larisey (BK Hacken), Adriana Leon (Portland Thorns), Nichelle Prince (Houston Dash), Deanne Rose (Reading), Christine Sinclair (Portland Thorns), Evelyne Viens (Kristianstads).

Republic of Ireland’s Team Profile

Since assuming control in 2019, Vera Pauw has boosted the Republic of Ireland’s prospects and led them to the World Cup – their first major tournament. Pauw previously managed Scotland, Russia, and her native Netherlands. The 60-year-old has delivered significant success on the pitch and instilled added confidence in the Irish team, leading to their historic qualification.

Katie McCabe, captain of The Republic of Ireland at the 2023 Women’s World Cup pic.twitter.com/1tZmMEids8

— Laura Veen Comps Specialist (@veencomps) June 28, 2023

Captain Katie McCabe has already etched her name in Irish history by leading the Republic of Ireland to their first major tournament. A key player for Arsenal in the Women’s Super League, McCabe became the youngest captain in the Republic’s history when she was given the armband as a 21-year-old in 2017.

Goalkeepers: Courtney Brosnan (Everton), Grace Moloney (Reading), Megan Walsh (unattached).

Defenders: Heather Payne (Florida State), Louise Quinn (Birmingham City), Niamh Fahey (Liverpool), Aine O’Gorman (Shamrock Rovers), Chloe Mustaki (Bristol City), Claire O’Riordan (Celtic), Diane Caldwell (Reading), Izzy Atkinson (West Ham), Megan Connolly (unattached).

Midfielders: Katie McCabe (Arsenal), Denise O’Sullivan (North Carolina Courage), Lily Agg (London City Lionesses), Ciara Grant (Hearts), Lucy Quinn (Birmingham City), Sinead Farrelly (Gotham City NYC), Ruesha Littlejohn (unattached).

Forwards: Amber Barrett (Standard Liege), Kyra Carusa (London City Lionesses), Abbie Larkin (Shamrock Rovers), Marissa Sheva (Washington Spirit).

Nigeria’s Team Profile

American Randy Waldrum has been managing Nigeria for three years, and this will be his first World Cup. The 66-year-old has spent most of his coaching career in college football, mainly overseeing men’s and women’s teams for various universities in his homeland.

Star player Asisat Oshoala has a knack for success. The 28-year-old has won titles in her native league with Rivers Angels, the FA Cup with Arsenal in 2016, back-to-back championships in China, and a remarkable number of trophies since moving to Barcelona in 2019. She is a five-time African Footballer of the Year winner and the first African to win the Champions League in 2021.

Goalkeepers: Chiamaka Nnadozie (Paris FC), Tochukwu Oluehi (Hakkarigucu Spor), Yewande Balogun (AS Saint-Etienne).

Defenders: Onome Ebi (Abia Angels), Osinachi Ohale (Deportivo Alaves), Glory Ogbonna (Besiktas), Ashleigh Plumptre (Leicester City), Rofiat Imuran (Stade de Reims), Michelle Alozie (Houston Dash) Oluwatosin Demehin (Stade de Reims).

Midfielders: Halimatu Ayinde (Rosengard FC), Rasheedat Ajibade (Atletico Madrid), Toni Payne (Sevilla), Christy Ucheibe (Benfica), Deborah Abiodun (Rivers Angels), Jennifer Echegini (Florida State University).

Forwards: Uchenna Kanu (Racing Louisville), Gift Monday (UDG Tenerife), Ifeoma Onumonu (NY/NJ Gotham FC), Asisat Oshoala (Barcelona), Desire Oparanozie (Wuhan Chegu Jianghan), Francisca Ordega (CSKA Moscow), Esther Okoronkwo (AS Saint-Etienne).

Women’s World Cup Group C

Group C includes 2011 world champions Japan, Spain, Costa Rica and first-time participants Zambia. Here’s a comprehensive look at the teams in this group.

Costa Rica’s Team Profile

At 36, Amelia Valverde will be one of the youngest managers at the 2023 Women’s World Cup. Valverde was at the helm when Costa Rica made their tournament debut in 2015, finishing third in their group. Known for her meticulous planning, tactical acumen, and communication skills, she hopes to guide Costa Rica to the knockout stages in their second World Cup appearance.

Star player Raquel Rodriguez, 29, has already earned over 100 caps. She is Costa Rica’s all-time leading scorer, having netted 55 times for her country, including Costa Rica’s first-ever World Cup goal against Spain in Montreal in 2015.

Goalkeepers: Priscila Tapia (Saprissa FF), Daniela Solera (Sporting FC), Noelia Bermudez (Alajuelense), Genesis Perez (University of Central Florida).

Defenders: Mariana Benavides (Saprissa FF), Maria Paula Elizondo (Saprissa FF), Daniela Cruz (Atlas), Lixy Rodriguez (Libre), Valeria del Campo (Monterrey), Maria Paula Porras (Sporting FC), Yesmi Rodriguez (Sporting FC), Fabiola Villalobos (Alajuelense), Maria Paula Coto (Alajuelense), Gabriela Guillen (Alajuelense).

Midfielders: Katherine Alvarado (Saprissa FF), Mariela Campos (Saprissa FF), Gloriana Villalobos (Saprissa FF), Emilie Valenciano (Libre), Melissa Herrera (Bordeaux), Cristin Granados (Sporting FC), Yerling Ovares (Sporting FC), Emily Flores (Sporting FC), Alexandra Pinell (Alajuelense), Raquel Rodriguez (Portland Thorns).

Forwards: Catalina Estrada (Saprissa FF), Priscila Chinchilla (Libre), Carolina Venegas (Libre), Sofia Varela (Libre), Maria Paula Salas (Monterrey).

Japan’s Team Profile

Futoshi Ikeda, 52, has already experienced global success after Japan’s victory at the 2018 Under-20 Women’s World Cup in France. The former Urawa Red Diamonds defender played in Japan’s top flight before transitioning to coaching.

With Japan’s World Cup roster officially released, Saki Kumagai is the only remaining player left from their 2011 World Cup victory 🇯🇵🏆

Who could forget her World Cup winning penalty against Hope Solo 😮‍💨 pic.twitter.com/XYgibCFXUq

— Women’s Transfer News (@womenstransfer) June 13, 2023

Star player Saki Kumagai, 32, symbolises dedication and commitment in Japan. Following the omission of forward Mana Iwabuchi, Kumagai is the only player in the squad for New Zealand who also appeared in the 2011 edition, when she helped her country triumph in Germany at just 20 years old.

Goalkeepers: Ayaka Yamashita (INAC Kobe Leonessa), Momoko Tanaka (Tokyo Verdy Beleza), Chika Hirao (Albirex Niigata).

Defenders: Risa Shimizu (West Ham), Moeka Minami (Roma), Saki Kumagai (Roma), Shiori Miyake (INAC Kobe Leonessa), Kiko Seike (Urawa Reds), Miyabi Moriya (INAC Kobe Leonessa), Rion Ishikawa (Urawa Reds), Hana Takahashi (Urawa Reds).

Midfielders: Fuka Nagano (Liverpool), Hinata Miyazawa (MyNavi Sendai), Hikaru Naomoto (Urawa Reds), Jun Endo (Angel City), Yui Hasegawa (Manchester City), Hina Sugita (Portland Thorns), Honoka Hayashi (West Ham), Aoba Fujino (Tokyo Verdy Beleza).

Forwards: Riko Ueki (Tokyo Verdy Beleza), Mina Tanaka (INAC Kobe Leonessa), Maika Hamano (Hammarby), Remina Chiba (JEF United).

Spain’s Team Profile

Jorge Vilda, who turns 42 on 7 July, grew up in the best footballing university of the time – Johan Cruyff’s Barcelona. In 2019, the former Barca and Real Madrid youth player led Spain to the last 16 of the World Cup, losing 2-1 to the eventual winners, the United States.

Despite some notable absentees, Vilda can still count on a squad that includes global star Alexia Putellas. The 2021 and 2022 Best Fifa Women’s Player and Ballon d’Or winner has recovered after rupturing her anterior cruciate ligament on the eve of Euro 2022.

Sorry to any Spain fans, but I do fear the worst for you as I drew Spain in our office 2023 Women’s World Cup sweepstake, which sadly is normally a kiss of death for a team’s chances. Which team did you get?

Goalkeepers: Cata Coll (Barcelona), Elene Lete (Real Sociedad), Misa Rodriguez (Real Madrid), Enith Salon (Valencia). Defenders: Ivana Andres (Real Madrid), Ona Batlle (Manchester United), Olga Carmona (Real Madrid), Laia Codina (Barcelona), Jana Fernandez (Barcelona), Rocio Galvez (Real Madrid), Sheila Garcia (Atletico Madrid), Oihane Hernandez (Athletic Club), Irene Paredes (Barcelona).

Midfielders: Teresa Abelleira (Real Madrid), Fiamma Benitez (Valencia), Aitana Bonmati (Barceona), Irene Guerrero (Levante), Jennifer Hermoso (Pachuca), Maite Oroz (Real Madrid), Maraa Perez (Barcelona), Alexia Putellas (Barcelona), Claudia Zornoza (Real Madrid).

Forwards: Mariona Caldentey (Barcelona), Marta Cardona (Atletico Madrid), Athenea del Castillo (Real Madrid), Inma Gabarro (Sevilla), Esther Gonzalez (Real Madrid), Eva Navarro (Atletico Madrid), Salma Paralluelo (Barcelona), Alba Redondo (Levante).

Zambia’s Team Profile

Zambia, the lowest-ranked team competing in Australia and New Zealand, have come a long way since Bruce Mwape, 63, was appointed in 2018. Having played at the Olympics for the first time in 2021, the Copper Queens are about to debut on the global stage.

Star player Barbra Banda, 23, became the first player in women’s Olympic football tournament history to score back-to-back hat-tricks. However, she was excluded from the 2022 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations after failing gender eligibility tests. A leading Fifa women’s football official has since said Banda is eligible to play for her country in New Zealand.

Goalkeepers: Catherine Musonda (Tomiris Turan), Eunice Sakala (Nkwazi), Hazel Nali (Fatih Vatan), Chitete Munsaka (Elite Ladies), Letisha Lungu (ZESCO Ndola Girls).

Defenders: Esther Banda (BUSA), Margaret Belemu (Shanghai Shengli), Mary Mulenga (Red Arrows), Agness Musase (Green Buffaloes), Lushomo Mweemba (Green Buffaloes), Jackline Nkole (Indeni Roses), Vast Phiri (ZESCO), Esther Siamfuko (Green Buffaloes), Judith Soko (YASA), Martha Tembo (BIIK Shymkent), Pauline Zulu (Elite Ladies).

Midfielders: Susan Banda (Red Arrows), Hellen Chanda (BIIK Shymkent), Rhoda Chileshe (Indeni Roses), Prisca Chilufya (Fatih Karagumruk), Avell Chitundu (ZESCO Ndola Girls), Evarine Katongo (ZISD), Ireen Lungu (BIIK Shymkent), Comfort Selemani (Elite Ladies), Mary Wilombe (Red Arrows), Misozi Zulu (Hakkarigucu).

Forwards: Barbra Banda (Shanghai Shengli), Grace Chanda (Madrid CFF), Regina Chanda (ZANACO), Racheal Kundananji (Madrid CFF), Ochumba Oseke Lubanji (Red Arrows), Xiomara Mapepa (Elite Ladies), Hellen Mubanga (Zaragoza), Maylan Mulenga (Green Buffaloes), Racheal Nachula (Zaragoza).

Women’s World Cup Group D

Euro 2022 champions England feature in Group D, along with previous runners-up China, Denmark, and first-time participants Haiti. Here’s a detailed look at the teams in this group.

China’s Team Profile

Shui Qingxia, 56, who competed in two Olympic Games with China as a player and won five Asian Cup titles, is China’s first female head coach. She took over in 2021 after a disappointing Olympic Games for China in 2021 and led them to the Asian Cup title within three months, securing their World Cup qualification.

Star player Wang Shuang, 28, a winger for Racing Louisville, has more than 100 caps for China and has played a crucial role in their recent success. She scored five goals in the 2022 Asian Cup to help China win the title.

China’s squad to be confirmed.

Denmark’s Team Profile

Lars Sondergaard, 64, has spent his entire managerial career in Austria and Denmark, starting with a youth team based in Aalborg. He took over the Denmark national team after Euro 2017 and was given a new contract three years later despite failing to qualify for the 2019 World Cup. Star player Pernille Harder, 30, became the world’s most expensive female footballer when she moved from Wolfsburg to Chelsea in 2020. She has been named Denmark’s Player of the Year seven times and was part of the squad that reached the Euro 2017 final.

Denmark squad to be confirmed.

England’s Team Profile

Dutchwoman Sarina Wiegman, 53, led the Netherlands to Euro 2017 glory on home soil before doing the same with England last year. She also led the Lionesses on a 30-game unbeaten run – going a full calendar year without a loss in 2022 – before their defeat by Australia in April, currently the odds of England winning the Women’s World Cup are at 9/2!

keira walsh england lionesses training camp women’s world cup 2023 beanyman news pic.twitter.com/97EAJpsTlf

— . (@swifthaimmedia) July 4, 2023

Star player Keira Walsh, 26, a Barcelona midfielder, was the subject of a world-record transfer following her performances at Euro 2022. She left Manchester City after eight years to help the Spanish giants win the Champions League and defend their league title this season.

Goalkeepers: Mary Earps (Manchester United), Hannah Hampton (Aston Villa), Ellie Roebuck (Manchester City).

Defenders: Millie Bright (Chelsea), Lucy Bronze (Barcelona), Jess Carter (Chelsea), Niamh Charles (Chelsea), Alex Greenwood (Manchester City), Esme Morgan (Manchester City), Lotte Wubben-Moy (Arsenal).

Midfielders: Laura Coombs (Manchester City), Jordan Nobbs (Aston Villa), Georgia Stanway (Bayern Munich), Ella Toone (Manchester United), Keira Walsh (Barcelona), Katie Zelem (Manchester United).

Forwards: Rachel Daly (Aston Villa), Bethany England (Tottenham Hotspur), Lauren Hemp, (Manchester City), Lauren James (Chelsea), Chloe Kelly (Manchester City), Katie Robinson (Brighton & Hove Albion), Alessia Russo (Manchester United).

Haiti’s Team Profile

Frenchman Nicolas Delepine, 44, managed numerous clubs in his home country before being appointed Haiti’s head coach in 2022. He guided them through their first World Cup qualification a year after joining Haiti.

Star player Melchie Dumornay, 19, a midfielder for Reims, is widely considered one of the world’s most talented young players. She was raised in Haiti and started playing football with older boys on the streets. She has since impressed at Reims and will join European giants Lyon on a three-year deal this summer.

Haiti squad to be confirmed.

Women’s World Group E

Defending world champions the United States feature in Group E, along with the Netherlands and debutants Vietnam and Portugal. Here’s a detailed look at the teams in this group.

Netherlands’ Team Profile

Andries Jonker, 60, who has worked at Barcelona and Bayern Munich as assistant to Louis van Gaal and managed Wolfsburg’s men’s team in the Bundesliga, is the Netherlands women’s side manager. He returned in August 2022 after Mark Parsons’ exit following defeat in the quarter-finals at Euro 2022.

Star player Jill Roord, 26, is closing in on 100 caps for her country and is trusted by Jonker. The former Arsenal midfielder was a substitute in the 2019 final, but Roord is expected to play a crucial role for her country in New Zealand.

Goalkeepers: Daphne van Domselaar (FC Twente), Lize Kop (Ajax), Jacintha Weimar (Feyenoord).

Defenders: Kerstin Casparij (Manchester City), Caitlin Dijkstra (Twente), Merel van Dongen (Atletico Madrid), Stefanie van der Gragt (Inter Milan), Dominique Janssen (Wolfsburg), Aniek Nouwen (AC Milan), Lynn Wilms (Wolfsburg).

Midfielders: Jill Baijings (Bayer Leverkusen), Danielle van de Donk (Lyon), Damaris Egurrola (Lyon), Jackie Groenen (PSG), Wieke Kaptein (FC Twente) Victoria Pelova (Arsenal), Jill Roord (Wolfsburg), Sherida Spitse (Ajax).

Forwards: Lineth Beerensteyn (Juventus), Esmee Brugts (PSV), Renate Jansen (FC Twente), Lieke Martens (PSG), Katja Snoeijs (Everton).

Portugal’s Team Profile

Francisco Neto’s achievements in guiding Portugal to its first World Cup have not gone unnoticed. Reaching the World Cup is the culmination of nine years of progress under Neto, whose side are the highest-ranked of the eight debutants at this tournament.

Star player Jessica Silva, 28, a Benfica forward, helped Lyon win the Champions League in 2020. Silva was 12 when she watched Brazil legend Marta on television at the 2007 World Cup.

Goalkeepers: Rute Costa (Benfica), Ines Pereira (Servette), Patricia Morais (Braga).

Defenders: Ana Seica (Benfica), Carole da Silva Costa (Benfica), Catarina Amado (Benfica), Diana Gomes (Sevilla), Joana Marchao (Parma), Lucia Alves (Benfica), Silvia Rebelo (Benfica).

Midfielders: Ana Rute (Braga), Andreia Norton (Benfica), Andreia Jacinto (Real Sociedad), Dolores Silva (Braga), Fatima Pinto (Deportivo Alaves), Kika Nazareth (Benfica), Tatiana Pinto (Levante).

Forwards: Ana Borges (Sporting CP), Ana Capeta (Sporting CP), Carolina Mendes (Braga), Diana Silva (Sporting CP), Jessica Silva (Benfica), Telma Encarnacao (CS Maritimo).

United States Team Profile

Vlatko Andonovski, 46, takes charge of the four-time world champions on the World Cup stage for the first time after the former defender from North Macedonia was appointed soon after the 2019 triumph in France.

4 years ago today, USWNT 🇺🇸defeats England🏴󠁧󠁢󠁥󠁮󠁧󠁿in the Women’s World Cup semi final to advance to the final. #USWNT

🇺🇸Christen Press⚽️ 🇺🇸Alex Morgan⚽️ pic.twitter.com/wSWXlgDMb8

— Jahir (@ValenciaJahir10) July 2, 2023

Star player Alex Morgan, who turns 34 on 2 July, is a two-time World Cup winner, a three-time Olympian and a United States living legend with connections in high places.

Goalkeepers: Aubrey Kingsbury (Washington Spirit), Casey Murphy (North Carolina Courage), Alyssa Naeher (Chicago Red Stars).

Defenders: Alana Cook (OL Reign), Crystal Dunn (Portland Thorns), Emily Fox (North Carolina Courage), Naomi Girma (San Diego Wave), Sofia Huerta (OL Reign), Kelley O’Hara (NJ/NY Gotham FC), Emily Sonnett (OL Reign).

Midfielders: Savannah DeMelo (Racing Louisville), Julie Ertz (Angel City), Lindsey Horan (Lyon), Rose Lavelle (OL Reign), Kristie Mewis (NJ/NY Gotham), Ashley Sanchez (Washington Spirit), Andi Sullivan (Washington Spirit).

Forwards: Alex Morgan (San Diego Wave), Megan Rapinoe (OL Reign), Trinity Rodman (Washington Spirit), Sophia Smith (Portland Thorns), Alyssa Thompson (Angel City), Lynn Williams (NJ/NY Gotham).

Vietnam’s Team Profile

Mai Duc Chung, 72, is a national treasure back home. When Vietnam walk out to face defending world champions the United States at Eden Park, Auckland, on 22 July, it will be the first time a Vietnamese men’s or women’s team has competed at a World Cup.

Star player Tran Thi Thuy Trang, 34, will captain Vietnam at their maiden World Cup. The midfielder’s experience and leadership skills will be crucial as Vietnam negotiates a group featuring 2019 runners-up the Netherlands, and the defending world champions.

Women’s World Cup Group F

Group F features former finalists Brazil and 2019 hosts France, Jamaica, and debutants Panama. Here’s a detailed look at the teams in this group.

Brazil’s Team Profile

Pia Sundhage, 63, previously coached both Sweden and the United States, winning Olympic gold with the latter in 2008 and 2012 and taking them to the 2011 World Cup final. As a player, she scored the winning penalty against England as Sweden won the inaugural European Championship in 1984 at Luton’s Kenilworth Road.

Star player Marta, 37, should be fit for the tournament after an injury-hit 12 months, which saw her miss the Finalissima defeat to England in March. She is Brazil’s all-time leading scorer, with 115 goals in 175 games, and was part of the side that reached the 2007 World Cup final. Marta unsurprisingly tops the Women’s World Cup top scorers list.

Goalkeepers: Tran Thị Kim Thanh (Ho Chi Minh), Khong Thị Hang (Than KSVN), Doan Thị Ngọc Phuong (Ho Chi Minh), Dao Thị Kieu Oanh (Hanoi).

Defenders: Ha Thị Ngọc Uyen (Ha Nam), Chuong Thị Kieu (Ho Chi Minh), Tran Thị Thu Thao (Ho Chi Minh), Tran Thị Thu (Ho Chi Minh), Hoang Thị Loan (Hanoi), Tran Thị Hai Linh (Hanoi), Le Thi Diem My (Than KSVN), Luong Thị Thu Thuong (Than KSVN), Nguyen Thị My Anh (Thai Nguyen), Tran Thị Thuy Nga (Thai Nguyen).

Midfielders: Nguyen Thị Tuyet Dung (Ha Nam), Nguyen Thị Bcch Thuy (Ho Chi Minh), Tran Thị Thuy Trang (Ho Chi Minh), Tran Nguyen Bao Chau (Ho Chi Minh), Ngan Thị Vạn Su (Hanoi), Nguyen Thị Thanh Nha (Hanoi), Thai Thị Thao (Hanoi), Duong Thị Van (Than KSVN), Nguyen Thị Truc Huong (Than KSVN).

Forwards: Nguyen Thị Tuyet Ngan (Ho Chi Minh), Phạm Hai Yen (Hanoi), Vu Thi Hoa (Ho Chi Minh), Nguyen Thị Thuy Hang (Than KSVN), Huynh Nhu (Lank Vilaverdense).

France’s Team Profile

Herve Renard, 54, was named France manager in March following Corinne Diacre’s sacking after several players said they would no longer represent the country under her leadership. He had never coached in women’s football before but was in charge of the Saudi Arabia side, which stunned Argentina at Qatar 2022.

You’re not taking Wendie Renard on a football pitch over Millie Bright in 2023. With respect to what Wendie has achieved. It’s not a Chelsea thing either it’s a “having a clue about football” thing. https://twitter.com/WEURO/status/1673255528779362306

— Rob Gooderham (@LowbrowTakes) June 26, 2023

Star Player Wendie Renard, 32, was a crucial driver in Diacre’s departure after saying she would miss this summer’s World Cup “to preserve my mental health”. She returned to the squad under Herve Renard and looks set to drive France from centre-back as she has done for 144 caps previously.

Goalkeepers: Mylene Chavas (Bordeaux), Solene Durand (Guingamp), Pauline Peyraud-Magnin (Juventus), Constance Picaud (PSG).

Defenders: Selma Bacha (Lyon), Estelle Cascarino (Manchester United), Elisa De Almeida (PSG), Sakina Karchaoui (PSG), Maelle Lakrar (Montpellier), Eve Perisset (Chelsea), Wendie Renard (Lyon), Aissatou Tounkara (Manchester United).

Midfielders: Kenza Dali (Aston Villa), Laurina Fazer (PSG), Grace Geyoro (PSG), Amandine Henry (Angel City), Oriane Jean-Francois (PSG), Lea Le Garrec (FC Fleury), Amel Majri (Lyon), Sandie Toletti (Real Madrid).

Forwards: Viviane Asseyi (West Ham), Vicki Becho (Lyon), Kadidiatou Diani (PSG), Naomie Feller (Real Madrid), Eugenie Le Sommer (Lyon), Clara Mateo (Paris FC).

Jamaica’s Team Profile

Lorne Donaldson was not well known even within Jamaican football when he was named coach of the Reggae Girlz in June 2022. However, he guided them to World Cup qualification through the Concacaf Championship at the expense of hosts Mexico.

Star player Khadija Shaw, 26, emerged as one of the best forwards in the Women’s Super League for Manchester City last season, scoring 31 goals in 30 matches across all competitions. Shaw – nicknamed Bunny – is the one truly world-class player in the Jamaica team and is crucial to their chances.

Goalkeepers: Mylene Chavas (Bordeaux), Solene Durand (Guingamp), Pauline Peyraud-Magnin (Juventus), Constance Picaud (PSG).

Defenders: Selma Bacha (Lyon), Estelle Cascarino (Manchester United), Elisa De Almeida (PSG), Sakina Karchaoui (PSG), Maelle Lakrar (Montpellier), Eve Perisset (Chelsea), Wendie Renard (Lyon), Aissatou Tounkara (Manchester United).

Midfielders: Kenza Dali (Aston Villa), Laurina Fazer (PSG), Grace Geyoro (PSG), Amandine Henry (Angel City), Oriane Jean-Francois (PSG), Lea Le Garrec (FC Fleury), Amel Majri (Lyon), Sandie Toletti (Real Madrid).

Forwards: Viviane Asseyi (West Ham), Vicki Becho (Lyon), Kadidiatou Diani (PSG), Naomie Feller (Real Madrid), Eugenie Le Sommer (Lyon), Clara Mateo (Paris FC).

Panama’s Team Profile

This job may be Mexican coach Ignacio Quintana’s first senior role; however, he had experience in women’s international football as Nicaragua’s assistant manager. He was appointed to Panama in 2021, guiding them through the World Cup play-offs earlier this year.

¡QUE ZURDAZO!💥

Marta Cox🇵🇦 anotó en el empate de @TuzosFemenil 4-4 frente a Chivas.

El Pachuca ocupa la 5ta posición y ya está clasificado a Cuartos de Final.pic.twitter.com/2P3sYbWijZ

— Carlos Solé (@carlossole__) May 9, 2023

Star Player Marta Cox, 25, made her international debut at 14 and is a critical cog in the Panamanian midfield. In February, she scored the winning goal against Trinidad and Tobago, securing Panama’s place at the Intercontinental play-offs in New Zealand.

Goalkeepers: Yenith Bailey (Tauro), Farissa Cordoba (Nanas), Sasha Fabrega (Independiente).

Defenders: Carina Baltrip Reyes (Maritimo), Katherine Castillo (Tauro), Rebeca Espinosa (Sporting SM), Hilary Jaen (Jones College), Wendy Natis (America de Cali), Yomira Pinzon (Saprissa), Nicole de Obaldia (Herediano), Rosario Vargas (Rayo Vallecano).

Midfielders: Laurie Batista (Tauro), Emily Cedeno (Tauro), Marta Cox (Pachuca), Schiandra Gonzalez (Tauro), Erika Hernandez (Plaza Amador), Natalia Mills (Alajuelense), Carmen Montenegro (Sporting SM), Aldrith Quintero (Alhama), Deysire Salazar (Tauro).

Forwards: Lineth Cedeno (Sporting SM), Karla Riley (Sporting), Riley Tanner (Washington Spirit).

The Women’s World Cup starts on Thursday, July 20, with co-hosts New Zealand facing Norway in the first fixture.