FIFA Women’s World Cup 2011: England Vs. Japan, Mexico Vs. New Zealand, Group B

Group B kicked off their play after Group A in the 2011 FIFA Women’s World Cup, as one might expect, but they’re playing the early games on Tuesday. This is thanks to the July 4 break that the competition took, causing Group B and Group A’s final games to be played on the same day. The competition organizers want to get Germany’s big game against France on in primetime, so Group B is relegated to the early slot. This group’s spots are close to squared away, but there’s still a chance that things could change.

In a game between the group’s top two teams, Japan takes on England. Japan looked spectacular in their last match as they demolished Mexico, while England just barely squeaked out a win against New Zealand as they looked unimpressive for the second straight game. However, that win meant that England controlled their own destiny, and they will win the group if they defeat Japan. A draw guarantees them a spot in the quarterfinals.

The only way that Mexico can get through to the next round is if they win and England loses while they make up a five goal margin in goal differential. This sounds like a nearly impossible task, but after Japan’s 4-0 demolition of New Zealand, it would be silly to completely discount the possibility of a three goal win by Japan and a two goal win by Mexico. It’s not terribly plausible, but it’s also far from impossible.

Japan look like the best team in this group, but England certainly have the talent to challenge them. Their battle for first place in the group should be an excellent one.