Mexico 2, New Zealand 2

Mexico gave a game effort to reach the quarterfinals, but in the end it came up just short with a 2-2 tie against New Zealand. As it turned out, it wouldn't have mattered anyway, as England was well in control of their match.

New Zealand, who had come all so close against both England and Japan, managed to get two very late goals to tie this match and earn their first World Cup point ever.

New Zealand coach John Herdman inserted veteran Hayley Moorwood and young Rosie White into the starting lineup for this match. Mexican coach Leonardo Cuellar made two changes in his lineup as well from the previous match against Japan. Kenti Robles started on the back line in place of Luz Saucedo. And Guadalupe Worbis started in the midfield in place of Dinora Garza.

Knowing that to have a chance, they needed to score several goals, Mexico went on the attack early. And just over a minute into the match, they went up 1-0. Veronica Perez gained possession and threaded a pass up the middle to Maribel Dominguez. Dominguez pushed the ball out the right side for Stephany Mayor. Mayor timed her run perfectly and having beaten the defender, walked in on goal and place her hard, low shot through the legs of Ferns goalkeeper Jenny Bindon. Mexico had taken the early 1-0 lead.

In the 20th minute, Mexico nearly doubled their lead. Mayor crossed the ball into the box, but Perez's diving effort at a header missed by mere inches. A few minutes later, Bindon made a nice save on Monica Ocampo and New Zealand's defense was able to block the ensuing rebound.

New Zealand nearly equalized in the 26th minute after a collision in the penalty area, but Cecilia Santiago came out to make the save as Betsy Hassett was able to get a shot off from 12 yards out.

Mexico's second goal came in the 29th minute. Santiago's goal kick came to center with Perez heading the ball forward past the defense. Dominguez had timed it perfectly and her great speed put her well behind the defender. She made no mistake finishing with well placed shot past Bindon and inside the right post. For Dominguez, it had been a long wait. She scored in the 1999 World Cup for Mexico, the last time they appeared in the tournament.

Mexico continued to press the attack, but with England leading the other match, things looked dim for the tricolor.

New Zealand tried to get one back at the start of the second half, as Ali Riley's cross found Anna Green, but her header went wide of the net.

At the other end, Ocampo put a shot from 10 yards well over the bar in the 58th minute. Dominguez attempted a shot from distance in the 60th minute, but it also went high. With England now leading 2-0 over Japan, the task had become impossible for Mexico as far as the quarterfinals go.

New Zealand began to knock on the door and came close in the 72nd minute as Mexico almost helped them out. A New Zealand corner kick found the head of Dinora Garza, who almost put it in her own net. Santiago made a reflex save to tip the ball just wide.

Charlyn Corral hit a free kick onto the top of the goal in the 88th minute, nearly putting Mexico up 3-0.

With time winding down, New Zealand was able to score two late goals. As had been giving them problems throughout the tournament, it was a set piece that led to the first goal against Mexico. Rebecca Smith rose easily above the defense and headed home a corner kick in the 90th minute.

Two minutes of time was added on and it was nearly that far into to stoppage when Hannah Wilkinson went down with an injury. The game continued on yet another minute as Wilkinson re-entered the game. She received a cross into the box, settled the ball and finished past Santiago to tie the match 2-2 on the last play of the match.

Mexico made a very good account of themselves, playing two strong matches against England and New Zealand. They earned two points and it could have easily been four. New Zealand was thrilled to have earned their first World Cup point.

World Cup: Day 10

There will be four matches played on Tuesday, the final group stage matches in both Group A and Group B. In Group A, the only thing left to be decided is placement. Germany and France have already booked their quarterfinal berths, while Canada and Nigeria have been eliminated. France had the goal differential advantage, so a win or a tie for the French and they will take Group A

In Group B, things are a bit more interesting. Japan has clinched a quarterfinal spot, but not the top spot. England could finish anywhere from first to third in the group. Mexico has slim hopes of advancing to the quarterfinals, but a lot of things will have to go right for them. New Zealand will be playing for pride when they face Mexico.

Germany vs. France (2:45 pm eastern)

France is coming off an impressive 4-0 victory over Canada, while Germany had to struggle through an extremely physical 1-0 win over Nigeria. Because of those results, a tie would mean France wins Group A and Germany would finish second.

But much of the talk around the German team hasn't been about their victory over Nigeria or the upcoming match against France, but about Birgit Prinz. One of the all-time greats in women's soccer, she made a fairly early exit in the 53rd minute in Friday's match against Nigeria and appeared to be none too happy about it. She was criticized by many in the German press for her actions.

Also in question for the Germans is midfielder Melanie Behringer, who came off injured in the match against Nigeria. While this match against France isn't essential to Germany winning the Cup, it is doubtful that they would want to lose to anybody, let alone to neighboring France, a team they thrashed by a 5-1 margin the last time they played them in the 2009 Euros. There will be a certain amount of pride at stake for this match.

France is coming off one of their most dominating performances in recent memory, maybe ever against a team as good as Canada. Normally, the Germans have a midfield advantage against every team they play, but France can put a strong midfield group on the field as well. Louisa Necib has to be considered one of the top players in the tournament so far. After a rather average first match, Camille Abily looked very good against Canada.

Germany probably has the edge in attacking players, mostly because they have so many good ones. Even with Prinz struggling and Grings not starting, German has a potent attack. Young Okoyino da Mbabi came to the forefront in the first two matches for Germany. Midfielder Kerstin Garefrekes is one of the best in the world in the air. Young midfielders Simone Laudehr, the goal scorer against Nigeria, and Kim Kulig make Germany as strong as any in the center.

Two of the best young forwards in women's soccer will probably have a lot to say about who wins this match. Alexandra Popp for Germany and Marie-Laure Delie for France will be among the next wave of great attacking players in the world. Gaetane Thiney is a dangerous scoring threat for France as well.

Both teams have solid, veteran back lines. Germany is led by Linda Bresonik and Babett Peter at the outside back positions, with Saskia Bartusiak and Annike Krahn in the middle. The French have the great veteran Sonia Bompastor at one outside position and Laure LePailleur got the start at the other outside position after Wendie Renard was injured in the opener. Laura Georges will definitely be one of France's central defenders, with the other being between Ophelie Meilleroux and Sabrina Viguier.

Germany has one of the best keepers in the world in Nadine Angerer. She has given up only one goal in eight World Cup matches. Berangere Sapowicz will be the French goalkeeper and it may well come down to her play if France is to win.

In spite of the injury to Behringer and the distraction regarding Prinz, one has to think that the Germans have the most depth of any team in this tournament. Angerer gives them an extra edge in goal. I expect this to be a close match, but I think Germany will want to send a message.

My Prediction: Germany 2, France 0

Canada vs. Nigeria (2:45 pm eastern)

This game has very little meaning except that both teams would like to end this World Cup on a positive note and come away with a win here.

Canada will be looking for some measure of redemption after a poor outing against a very good French squad. It was just one of those days when they were outmatched and nothing seemed to go right.

Considering the physical nature of the Germany-Nigeria match on Friday, one wonders whether Carolina Morace will want to play Christine Sinclair, who is suffering from a broken nose and also appeared to get cut near her eye in the second match against France.

It will be interesting to see whether Morace will make many changes to her lineup, given the performance against France and the relative unimportance of this match. And she might want to get some of her younger players experience in a World Cup match, although it must be said that the Canadian squad is one of the oldest in Germany.

Nigeria will be looking for their first World Cup victory since 1999, when they qualified for the quarterfinals with two group stage wins. They are led by great veterans in Stella Mbachu, Perpetua Nkwocha, Precious Dede, and talented young players like Desire Oparanozie and Ebere Orji.

It will be a hard match to predict, because it is uncertain how each coach will approach the match and the lineup.

My Prediction: Canada 1, Nigeria 1.

Japan vs. England (12:15 pm eastern)

Japan has already clinched a spot in the quarterfinals, but England has a little work yet to be done. A tie gets England into the quarterfinals and a victory gives them Group B. In the event of a loss, the result of the Mexico-New Zealand match will decide if they qualify for the quarterfinals and it could come down to goal differential, where England has a healthy advantage.

Certainly, this will be a contrast in styles. Japan will rely on technicals skills, using their passing game to break down England's defense and Aya Miyama's set pieces to given them scoring opportunities. But England will not be so easy to score on as Mexico was on set pieces. England has a tall physical squad and it is doubtbul that Homare Sawa will get uncontested headers in this match.

The Japanese have a great midfield, led by Sawa and Miyama. They also have both speed and creativeness up front with the likes of Shinobu Ohno, Yuki Nagasato, and Mana Iwabuchi. They play a patient game, waiting for opportunities to exploit their opponent's defenses. But four goal outbursts like the one against Mexico have been the exception, rather than the rule. Most often, Japan plays low scoring matches decided by one goal.

On defense, the Japanese start Yukari Kinga, Saki Kumagai, Azusa Iwashimizu, and Aya Sameshima. Kinga is a great veteran defender who also gets involved in the offense. It was her hard work that set up one of Sawa's goals against Mexico. Ayumi Kaihori has been the keeper in both matches for Japan.

Japan have given up only one goal so far. However, that one goal was on a header, which brings us to Japan's weakness on their back line, their size. Tall striker Amber Hearn from New Zealand was able to score on a header against Japan and the Nadeshiko can be exploited on set pieces, something that England, particularly Jill Scott, are very adept at.

Indeed, Scott headed in a goal against New Zealand and is the prime target player on set pieces for England. Another English midfielder, Fara Williams may not quite be as good as Miyama on placing free kicks, but she's darn close.

However, Kelly Smith will be the center of attention for England and rightfully so. Smith is still one of the best in the world and she draws multiple defenders every time she touches the ball. As for English forwards, Jess Clarke came off the bench to get the game winner against New Zealand and it wouldn't be a surprise to see her start this match. Eni Aluko, who got the starting assignment in the first two matches, has been unable to find the scoring touch as of late. Ellen White is another possibility at forward for England.

Karen Bardsley has good height and has been the starting English keeper over the past few months. She is generally very solid, but was caught off guard by Monica Ocampo's strike in the match against Mexico. The English defense may be suspect. They have given up two goals at the World Cup, certainly not bad, but the Japanese team will be the most skilled passing team they will face in Group B. Alex Scott is an excellent attacking player from the outside back position and she assisted on Jill Scott's goal against New Zealand.

Because of the goal differential, I believe England will go through to the quarterfinals, no matter what happens here. While they have posted a win and a tie, they have played rather lackluster soccer at times. After a tough first match, Japan put on quite a show against Mexico.

My Prediction: Japan 1, England 1

Mexico vs. New Zealand (12:15 pm eastern)

In many ways, it was disappointing to see New Zealand mathematically eliminated because they had played two close matches against two quality opponents. The Ferns would really like to get a victory in their last match in Germany. Mexico is still clinging to thin hopes of advancing, but they will have to score a lot of goals to make up the huge goal differential deficit after their 4-0 defeat at the hands of Japan.

The last time these two teams met was at the Cyprus Cup in March with Mexico winning by a surprising 5-0 margin. New Zealand will surely remember that as well and want to make amends.

Mexico will need to throw everything into the attack in this match. It is unrealistic to believe that England will lose to Japan by anything more than a goal, so Mexico will need to score at least four to have any chance.

That means their will be a lot of pressure on their best scoring options Maribel Dominguez, Monica Ocampo, Veronica Perez, Dinora Garza, and Stephany Mayor, to create offensive opportunities. Will young Charlyn Corral get a chance for action in this match?

Defensively, Mexico had a rough outing against the Japanese and were quite frankly horrible on defending set pieces. That has to improve against New Zealand or they will be in for another long day. Another question is whether or not Mexico will stay with their young keeper, Cecilia Santiago, or might they go to a more veteran option in either Erika Vanegas or Pam Tajonar.

New Zealand will try to use Amber Hearn's size to duplicate Homare Sawa's efforts against Mexico. Look for the Ferns to test the Mexican back line with balls over the defense, using speedy Sarah Gregorius as a target. Note that New Zealand has scored on both opponents so far.

The back line for New Zealand has held up fairly well so far. Ali Riley is very talented at outside back and look for her to attack frequently in this match. Rebecca Smith is the experience on the back line, while Anna Green usually is their set piece specialist. Jenny Bindon is very experienced in the goal for New Zealand.

Second halves have not been kind to the Ferns. They were even to Japan and one up on England at halftime of their two matches, only to lose both. Meanwhile, Mexico appeared to wear England down somewhat in the second half of their match. New Zealand has very little pressure on them, while Mexico will be the desperate team. I could see this match having a lot of scoring.

My Prediction: Mexico 2, New Zealand 2

Japan 4, Mexico 0

Homare Sawa turned in the first truly great performance of the 2011 World Cup as Japan defeated Mexico 4-0. Sawa scored three goals, two of them on headers no less. But it wasn't just the goals, but Sawa's superb overall play that led Japan to victory.

This is Sawa's fifth World Cup. She played in her first at age 16 in 1995. But in all those years and all those World Cup games, she had never turned in one quite like this.

The first goal came in the 13th minute. Japan won a free kick on the left wing, about 28 yards from the goal. Aya Miyama's serve was absolutely perfect into the box. Sawa was able to get space between herself and Nayeli Rangel and rise to easily head the ball inside the right post from six yards out.

In the 15th minute, the ball was played to Yuki Nagasato at the edge of the penalty area. She worked her way back to the right, touching the ball over to Shinobu Ohno. Ohno cut between Mexican defenders Alina Garciamendez and Luz Saucedo, then drove the ball into the upper part of the net just inside the right post from about 15 yards out. In a matter of just a couple of minutes, Japan had struck like lightning and the match was already slipping away from Mexico.

Mexico's first shot came in the 19th minute as Dinora Garza tested Japanese keeper Ayumi Kaihori from 25 yards, but the ball one-hopped right to Kaihori and she had no trouble with it.

Sawa nearly got her second in the 28th minute, but her header went just wide. Japan was putting on quite a show with their skill and precision passing.

Mexico's nightmare on set pieces continued in the 39th minute. Aya Miyama's corner this time went to the near post, with Sawa making a perfect run in that direction. Sawa flicked the header past Cecilia Santiago's right hip and into the net and it was 3-0 for Japan.

Mexico came close to getting one back early in the second half. Stephany Mayor's strike from 25 yards was headed toward the left post, but Kaihori was able to dive and knock the ball wide. The ball was probably going to go just wide anyhow, but the Japanese keeper was taking no chances.

Yuki Nagasato almost had a goal in the 56th minute, but Natalie Vinti was able to deflect the ball just enough that it hit the post instead of going into the net and Mexico had dodged a bullet.

Sawa made it a hat trick in the 80th minute, but Yukari Kinga must get a lot of credit for this one as well. Kinga worked a give and go with Mana Iwabuchi on the right side, with Kinga taking the ball to near the end line. She then crossed it back across the middle where Sawa found open space and finished from nine yards inside the left post.

Indeed, Japan had played one of the best matches of the tournament. They controlled the midfield and were able to create chance after chance, often methodically working the ball up the field with sharp, short passes.

It was the second straight disastrous day for Concacaf teams. Canada was blitzed by France by the identical score on Thursday. In Mexico's defense, not many teams would have beaten Japan on this day, but their marking on set pieces was substandard at best. Maribel Dominguez, Mexico's best offensive option, was held in check by the Japanese and rarely threatened.

Japan secured a spot in the quarterfinals with the victory and they will meet England with a chance to win Group B on Tuesday. Mexico put themselves in a very precarious position because of the size of the defeat. They now have to defeat New Zealand, probably by a fairly large margin and hope England loses to Japan. Even defeating New Zealand, a team that played both Japan and England to one goal, will not be an easy task.

World Cup: Day 6

Japan vs. Mexico (9 am eastern)

This promises to be a truly interesting matchup, as the young Mexico squad will take on the technically strong Japanese team. A victory for Japan would put them into the quarterfinals. If Mexico should win, things could get very complicated in Group B heading into their final matches next Tuesday.

Mexico has to be riding a wave of confidence following their draw against the world's 10th ranked team, England, in their opener. Meanwhile, Aya Miyama's free kick saved the day for Japan in their win over New Zealand.

One might note that Group B is the only one where all four teams scored in their first match. This game has no shortage of good attacking players.

For Mexico, Maribel Dominguez is a very clever and experienced forward that can get behind opposing defenses that take their eye off her for a split second. Monica Ocampo's stunning strike from over 30 yards gave Mexico a tie in their opener. Dinora Garza is also dangerous out of the Mexican midfield. And Mexico will have Veronica Perez back, who missed the match against England, serving her one game suspension for a red card in the Concacaf final.

Japan is also dangerous in the attack. Their midfield is very skilled with Homare Sawa and Aya Miyama. Their targets will be speedy Shinobu Ohno, young Mana Iwabuchi, and Yuki Nagasato, who scored in the match against New Zealand. Karina Maruyama and Megumi Takase provide excellent depth.

The midfield battle will be one of the highlights of this match, with Sawa, Miyama, and Kozue Ando matching against Nayeli Rangel, Guadalupe Worbis, and Garza. Japan has a big edge in experience and probably an edge in technical ability as well, but the Mexicans are playing spirited football right now.

Defensively, Japanese size, or lack thereof, on their back line can be a liability and New Zealand scored their low goal against Japan on a header by tall striker Amber Hearn. Whether or not Mexico can take advantage of this is yet to be seen. Yukari Kinga and Azusa Iwashimizu are probably Japan's most experienced backs.

Mexico has a couple of veterans, Rubi Sandoval and Luz Saucedo, joined by a couple of American college stars, Alina Garciamendez and Natalie Vinti. They played solid soccer against England in the opener.

In goal, Mexico will likely stay with the hot hand and that is 16 year old Cecilia Santiago. It will be interesting to see if Japan stays with Ayumi Kaihori or if they opt for the 36 year old veteran Nozomi Yamago.

Japan is very dangerous on set pieces, as Miyama left no doubt about on Monday. Defensively, set pieces can also be Japan's vulnerability, although that isn't necessarily one of Mexico's strong points. Japan will probably have the possession edge for the day, but the important thing is by how much. If Mexico can hold their own, they might be able to wear down Japan as it appeared they were doing to England late in that match.

The younger Mexican team will need to avoid mistakes and try to be patient. Japan will want to get into a rhythm early on with precise passing. They will also try to force the Mexican defense into situations where they have to foul, giving Japan exactly what they want, set pieces in the offensive end.

My Prediction: Japan 2, Mexico 1.

England vs. New Zealand (12:15 pm eastern)

The last time these two teams met was back in October at the Peace Cup, a game that ended in a scoreless draw. New Zealand had to be pretty pleased in holding England without a goal.

It will be hard for New Zealand to repeat that feat on Friday. England has a lot of attacking options. Kelly Smith is definitely the first option. The great international scorer draws multiple defenders and while that could make things tough on her, it will open up space for her teammates.

As for who will be England's other forward, that's hard to say. Eni Aluko had a frustrating match against Mexico and Hope Powell might go with Jess Clarke or Ellen White instead.

For New Zealand, one would think Amber Hearn would continue to be their main target. She has over 20 career strikes, including a game tying goal against Japan on Monday. Interestingly, John Herdman went with Sarah Gregorius, who has had very few starts, in Monday's match. One wonders if Hannah Wilkinson might be given a shot against England.

England certainly has a strong midfield led by Fara Williams, the scorer of England's goal against Mexico. She is joined by Jill Scott, who is often Williams target on set pieces along with Kelly Smith. Karen Carney and Rachel Yankey played the outside midfield positions on Monday and both can be dangerous.

New Zealand decided not to start veteran Hayley Moorwood in the midfield, instead bringing her in as a 2nd half substitution. We will see if that might change for this match against England. Ria Percival set up Hearn's goal and showed good speed running down the ball in the corner.

Defensively, New Zealand has a lot of experience in the middle with Abby Erceg and Rebecca Smith. England's central defense has even more experience with Casey Stoney and Faye White.

This game features two excellent outside defenders in Alex Scott for England and Ali Riley for New Zealand. Both have good speed and are particularly adept at overlapping runs. Because England will put more pressure on, Scott will likely have more opportunities. New Zealand's success may depend on Riley's chances of getting forward into the attack.

Karen Bardsley started Monday's match and has been the starter for England over the past few months. I doubt that Hope Powell would change at this point. Jenny Bindon is probably the only starting choice for New Zealand. Both are capable of having great games.

This is an important match for both teams, New Zealand pretty much must get points in this match to stay alive in Group B. The tie against Mexico increases the pressure on England in this match. I see England as having too much experience and too many offensive weapons for New Zealand.

My Prediction: England 3, New Zealand 0

England 1, Mexico 1

England and Mexico battled for 90 minutes to a hard-fought draw in Wolfsburg. The match was well contested throughout, with both sides having several good chances to score, but the match ended in a 1-1 tie.

This is a much improved side we are seeing from Mexico these days and they stayed with the tough English team blow for blow in this match. They nearly went on top in the opening minutes as Maribel Dominguez was given a nice through-ball that put her temporarily behind the English defense, but veteran defender Faye White made a nice recovery and Dominguez was unable to get a shot off.

For England, early on, it was shots from distance that seemed to be the order of the day. Kelly Smith's near miss just past the right post was the first of many that England would try in the first half. Apparently, the English were trying to test 16-year old Mexican keeper Cecilia Santiago early and often.

With no score in the 21st minute, England gained a corner kick on the right side. Karen Carney took the kick with the ball going high to the right side of the box, about 15 yards away. English midfielder Fara Williams was able to get height over the Mexican defender and headed the ball into the upper right corner of the net, while Santiago watched helplessly. England led 1-0.

Santiago appeared unfazed just a few minutes later as she was able to make a diving stop on Williams' attempt from 22 yards and smother it without rebound.

Then, what appeared to be a very innocuous play from Mexico resulted in a goal. The Mexicans gained possession in the midfield and after a couple of passes the ball came to Monica Ocampo, a good 35 yards away from the goal.

Ocampo touched the ball to the center of the field and then ripped a shot that curled under the bar and beyond a very stunned Karen Bardsley to tie the match at one. Bardsley appeared to be deceived by both the pace and spin on the shot and attempted to catch it two-handed instead of punching the ball away. As it turned out, it was just out of her reach and the match went into intermission tied at one.

Although they didn't score, the two great strikers in this match, Kelly Smith and Maribel Dominguez did not disappoint anyone with their play. Dominguez seemed to be perpetually on the run and menacing the English back line. Smith, as usual, controlled the center of the field, distributing well to teammates and taking a shot or two herself when the opportunity presented itself. Dominguez eventual developed a cramp late in the contest and was substituted out, but not before she threw a few scares into the English team.

While England had the better of chances and possession in the first half, Mexico gained confidence after Ocampo's goal. They nearly took the lead in the 49th minute as Dominguez struck her free kick from 22 yards just wide of the left post.

England took their turn just five minutes later as Rachel Yankey's cross to the back post was headed to the middle by Karen Carney, but Eni Aluko's swing at the ball from directly in front of the net produced nothing.

The English might have been a tad lucky in the 60th minute as Rachel Unitt's late challenge on Alina Garciamendez in the penalty area did not result in a call and the English defense were able to clear.

In the closing minutes of the game, both teams were presented with golden chances on free kicks. Smith's attempt from 25 yards went over the bar, while Ocampo's try from similar distance was even closer, just inches over the crossbar.

It appeared that Mexico had plenty of energy in the last few minutes, while England appeared to be worn out. Two minutes into stoppage, Mexico pressured inside England's penalty area, but Stephany Mayor's blast was blocked by Ellen White just yards in front of the goal to avert disaster.

While the result was a tie, the young Mexican squad had to be very happy with their performance and should gain confidence for the road ahead. They were able to strike back within minutes of falling behind in the match and showed more energy and greater possession as the match wore on.

Perhaps, a disappointing result for England, but their task against a very tough Mexican team was not that easy. England next faces New Zealand, a team that tied them in the Peace Cup last fall. Mexico will now face Group B leaders Japan. A victory against the Japanese would put Mexico in very good shape to advance to the quarterfinals.

World Cup: Day 2

Japan vs. New Zealand (9 am eastern)

These two teams met at the group stage of the 2008 Olympics with the match ending in a 2-2 tie. All four goal scorers from that match will be playing on Monday, Aya Miyama and Homare Sawa for Japan and Amber Hearn and Kirsty Yallop for New Zealand.

Japan played sluggish soccer in two matches against the United States in May. An early sign in this game will be how well they are passing the ball and maintaining possession. If they are on, especially Miyama and Sawa, it will be hard for New Zealand to beat them. Japan may also test the Ferns' back line early on as well. The speedy Shinobu Ohno could pose problems for New Zealand's defense, as could Megumi Takase.

Miyama is very accurate on free kicks and corners, so the Ferns will want to surrender as few of those chances as possible. It will also be interesting if young Mana Iwabuchi makes an appearance in this match.

Japan has a rather smallish back line, so New Zealand might want to try a few balls in the air, particularly with a pair of their tall forwards, Hannah Wilkinson and Hearn. New Zealand also needs to make the most of their set pieces.

New Zealand will need to keep their mistakes to a minimum and rely on the leadership of their more experienced players such as Hayley Moorwood and Rebecca Smith. Jenny Bindon is a solid keeper and she might give an edge to the Ferns in the goalkeeping department. Ali Riley is a world class defender and can be a threat to get into the attack as well.

I think this match comes down to technical ability and possession which will give an edge to Japan. If New Zealand has to spend the day chasing Japan, they will eventually wear down.

My Prediction: Japan 3, New Zealand 1

England vs. Mexico (12 pm eastern)

This could be a truly interesting match, with the young squad from Mexico challenging the strong English side. There is no doubt that the English have more weapons in their arsenal, but Mexico will seize on opportunities as they proved against the United States last November.

The game features two very good forwards. Kelly Smith is one of the best in the world and combines strength, ability, and brains to menace opposing defenses. She can draw the defense toward her and then release a pass to an open teammate. But any one of several other English forwards can be handful as well, including Jess Clarke, Eni Aluko, and Rachel Yankey.

Maribel Dominguez is also very talented and quick. She will probably have a more difficult task, because the English defense can concentrate on her, while England has several players that can score on the offensive end. Dinora Garza and Stephany Mayor will have to help their teammate carry the load. Nayeli Rangel will be an important figure in the Mexican midfield.

England is a big team with Smith, Jill Scott, and Faye White. Mexico will be better with the ball on the ground and must avoid giving up set pieces in their own end of the field, because Fara Williams is excellent in such situations and if within range, Kelly Smith can score off free kicks as well.

Watch to see how Mexico's back line, including Alina Garciamendez, Luz Saucedo, and Natalie Vinti hold up under pressure. Mexico needs to keep possession and the ball at their feet, where they can do the most damage.

The goalkeeping matchup should be an interesting contrast as well, with Karen Bardsley going for England and probably Cecilia Santiago going for Mexico.

England will be more used to the World Cup atmosphere than the young Mexican team and that should give them an advantage. I believe England has too many weapons and Mexico will have trouble dealing with English set pieces.

My Prediction: England 3, Mexico 1

Canada Wins the Cyprus Cup

They needed overtime to do it, but Canada won the Cyprus Cup championship by a 2-1 margin over Holland. Just three months ago, Canada had easily defeated Holland 5-0 in a match played in Brazil. This time proved to be much tougher.

The match was played in harsh weather, with rain and very windy conditions. The weather played a part in an early defensive error by the Dutch and Jonelle Filigno, the goal scoring hero against Italy last Friday, once again scored to make it 1-0 for Canada.

Holland was able to tie the match late in the first half. Claudia van den Heiligenberg scored to make it 1-1.

Late in regulation, Erin McLeod suffered a minor injury and had to be replaced by Stephanie Labbé. She was able to keep Holland from scoring any further goals.

Emily Zurrer scored the game winner off of a Diana Matheson corner kick in the 99th minute. Canada completed a solid tournament in which they defeated four strong European sides in the process.

3rd Place: France 3, Scotland 0

Marie-Laure Delie made it her second hat trick of the tournament as she scored all three goals in France's 3-0 victory over Scotland. Bérangèr Sapowicz recorded the shutout for France.

5th Place: England 2, South Korea 0

Sue Smith's brace led England to a 2-0 win over South Korea. After a disappointing run in the group stage of the tournament, England finished strong in taking fifth place.

Karen Bardsley and Siobhan Chamberlain shared the shutout for England.

7th Place: Mexico 5, New Zealand 0

After a scoreless first half, Mexico scored five times in the closing stanza to defeat New Zealand in the 7th place match. Stephany Mayor scored a hat trick to lead the way for Mexico, who finished the tournament unbeaten with two wins and two ties. Dinora Garza added a goal and the fifth was an own goal by New Zealand.

9th Place: Italy 2, Russia 0

Italy won 2-0 over Russia on goals by Patrizia Panico and Giulia Domenichetti.

11th Place: Switzerland 2, Northern Ireland 1

In a match between two teams searching for their first win at the Cyprus Cup, Switzerland edged Northern Ireland 2-1. Lara Dickenmann scored a first half goal to give Switzerland the lead. Northern Ireland tied the match early in the 2nd half, but Martina Moser scored the game winner in the 65th minute.

Canada and England Open with Cyprus Cup Victories

Canada won their Cyprus Cup opener over Scotland on the strength of an Emily Zurrer goal in the 70th minute. The University of Illinois product scored her first international goal on the senior level.

Zurrer headed in a Diana Matheson corner kick for the game winner. Erin McLeod earned the shutout for Canada.

England 2, Italy 0

Hope Powell's team got off to promising start with a 2-0 victory over Italy in their Cyprus Cup opener. Goals by Ellen White and Kelly Smith led England to victory.

White took advantage of a defensive error by the Italians early on. Smith's goal was on a penalty after Jess Clarke had been tripped up in the box by Elisabetta Tona.

Holland 4, New Zealand 1

Holland scored three first half goals and coasted their way to a 4-1 victory over New Zealand. Sherida Spitse opened the scoring in the 20th minute and was followed by a Manon Melis brace before intermission.

Sara Gregorius was able to get New Zealand on the board in the 75th minute, before Renee Slegers finished the scoring in the 83rd minute.

France 2, Switzerland 0

Gaëtane Thiney and Camille Abily netted goals as France defeated Switzerland 2-0. Bérangère Sapowicz posted the shutout for the French.

South Korea 3, Northern Ireland 1

South Korea opened Cyprus Cup play with a 3-1 win over Northern Ireland.

Mexico 0, Russia 0

Mexico and Russia played to a scoreless draw on Wednesday, with Erika Vanegas earning the shutout for Mexico.

Cyprus Cup - Group C Preview

While Group C doesn't have any of the world's top 15 teams in it, it should be an interesting group to watch. It features a talented, emerging team in Mexico, a solid veteran team in Russia, a young, exciting side in the Korea Republic, and an improving squad from Northern Ireland.

Mexico
Coach: Leonardo Cuellar
World Rank: #22
World Cup: Qualified by finishing second in CONCACAF after defeating the United States 2-1 in the semifinal.

Latest Results:
Torneia Internacional Cidade de Sao Paulo: Lost to Brazil 3-0, Lost to Canada 1-0, Lost to Holland 3-1, Lost to Holland 2-1.
CONCACAF WC Qualifiers: Defeated Guyana 7-2, Defeated Trinidad & Tobago 2-0, Lost to Canada 0-3, Defeated USA 2-1, Lost to Canada 0-1.

Preliminary Roster (final Cyprus Cup roster was not available at press time):
Goalkeepers: Erika Vanegas, Pamela Tajonar, Cecilia Santiago.
Defenders: Kenti Robles, Marlene Sandoval, Rosario Saucedo, Maria Castillo, Leticia Villalpando, Natalie Vinti, Monica Alvarado.
Midfielders: Nayeli Rangel, Monica Vergara, Tania Morales, Evelyn Lopez, Guadalupe Worbis, Liliana Mercado, Teresa Noyola,.
Forwards: Charlyn Corral, Stephany Mayor, Dinora Garza, Maribel Dominguez, Veronica Perez.

The Cyprus Cup will be a major test for the Mexicans leading up to the 2011 World Cup. On one hand, they have a victory over the world’s number one ranked team under their belts and have played some very good teams close, including a pair of 1-0 losses to Canada. On the other hand, their record stands at just 4-11 over the past 15 matches, with the only win of any substance being the 2-1 upset over the United States in CONCACAF qualifying. To be sure, the Mexicans are a young talented team, but will they be ready to take on the world’s best in June?

One player that is essential to their World Cup plans is Maribel Dominguez, Mexico’s leading scorer who plays club soccer in Spain. Dominguez has good speed and uses well-timed runs to get in behind opposing defenses. Other top offensive players include Charlyn Corral, Stephany Mayor, Veronica Perez, and Dinora Garza.

Mexico is led in the midfield by Nayeli Rangel and Guadalupe Worbis. Kenti Robles, who also plays club soccer in Spain, is a top defender. American college star Teresa Noyola, who recently made the decision to play for Mexico, will be vying for a midfield spot on the roster. The goalkeeper battle appears to be between Erika Vanegas and Pam Tajonar, with Vanegas getting the bulk of the minutes over the past year. Monica Ocampo, Natalie Garcia, and Renae Cuellar may not make the trip to Cyprus because of injuries.

Group C will be a solid test for Mexico. With Russia and South Korea being ranked in the top 20, coach Leonardo Cuellar should be able to get some measure of his team’s progress in this tournament.

Northern Ireland
Coach: Alfie Wylie
World Rank: #64
World Cup: Failed to qualify after finishing third in UEFA Group 1 behind France and Iceland.

Latest Results:
UEFA WC Qualifying (Since July, 2010): Defeated Estonia 3-0, Tied Serbia 0-0, Defeated Croatia 3-1.

Cyprus Cup Roster:
Goalkeepers: Emma Higgins, Ciara McCoy.
Defenders: Kelly Bailie, Lyndsay Corry, Ashley Hutton, Julie Nelson.
Midfielders: Nadene Caldwell, Danielle McDowell, Kirsty McGuiness, Nicola McWilliams, Kim Turner, Demi Vance.
Forwards: Rachel Furness, Trudy Harbinson, Simone Magill, Sarah McFadden, Helen McKenna, Alison Smyth.

The lowest ranked team in the tournament at number 64, Northern Ireland sees this tournament as an opportunity for improvement and growth. They are a very young team, looking toward the future. They have shown progress lately. After losing five straight qualifying matches, they finished group play with two wins and two draws, surrendering just one goal over those four matches.

Defensively, they are a tough unit. With the exception of the 10 goals they gave up in the two matches against France, they played sound defense in qualifying matches. The defense is led by team captain Ashley Hutton. Hutton, Kim Turner, and Sarah McFadden all played college soccer at Southern Mississippi here in the States. Emma Higgins is the number one keeper.

Scoring has been the biggest problem for Northern Ireland. Rachel Furness was their biggest scorer in World Cup qualifying matches with four goals. But two talented young players from the U-17 team may be the key to the future for this team. Simone Magill and Kirsty McGuiness appear to have a bright future ahead of them.

Russia
Coach: Igor Shalimov
World Rank: #20
World Cup: Failed to qualify after finishing second to Switzerland in UEFA Group 6.

Latest Results:
Friendlies: Lost to Finland 4-5.
UEFA WC Qualifying (since July, 2010): Defeated Kazakhstan 8-0, Tied Republic of Ireland 1-1.

Preliminary Roster (final Cyprus Cup roster was not available at press time):
Goalkeepers: Elvira Todua, Elena Kochneva.
Defenders: Anna Kozhnikova, Nadezhda Myskiv, Natalia Pertseva, Daria Makarenko, Elena Semenchenko, Elena Suslov, Oksana Shmachkova, Ksenia Tsybutovich.
Midfielders: Elena Fomina, Nadezhda Kharchenko, Elena Morozova, Olga Petrova, Alla Rogova, Tatiana Skotnikova, Ekaterina Sochneva, Svetlana Tsydikova.
Forwards: Anna Cholovyaga, Elena Danilova, Olesya Kurochkina, Elena Terekhova.

The Russians fell two points short of making the UEFA WC Playoff round, after a disappointing 3-0 loss to Switzerland at home last June. They must now look to build toward the 2013 Euro tournament.

Russia’s most talented offensive player is Elena Danilova. Danilova scored five goals in just five qualifying matches. Still just 23 years old, Danilova scored a goal against Germany in the World Cup quarterfinals back in 2003 at age 16. Olesya Kurochkina led all Russian scorers with six goals in qualification.

Tatiana Skotnikova is a top player in the Russian midfield. The long-time veteran gives the Russians a great amount of experience in the midfield. Anna Kozhnikova is a threat to score out of the back line. Goalkeeping duties are held down by two relative youngsters in Elvira Todua and Elena Kochneva.

After just missing the playoff round for World Cup qualification, Russia will be looking to put together a good tournament and possibly win Group C.

South Korea (Korea Republic)
Coach: Choi In-Cheul
World Rank: #18
World Cup: Failed to qualify after finishing third in the group stage of the 2010 Asian Cup.

Latest Results:
Asian Games: Defeated Vietnam 6-1, Defeated Jordan 5-0, Defeated China 0-0 on penalty kicks, Lost to Korea DPR 1-3, Defeated China 2-0.
Peace Cup: Tied New Zealand 0-0, Tied England 0-0, Defeated Australia 2-0.

Cypress Cup Roster:
Goalkeepers: Jun Min-Kyung, Moon So-Ri.
Defenders: Lim Seon-Joo, Jung Young-A, Lee Jin-Hwa, Yu Ji-Eun, Hwang Bo-Ram, Shim Seo-Yeon, Lee Eun-Mi, Kim Hye-Ri.
Midfielders: Kim Na-Rae, Jung Won-Jung, Lee Hyun-Young, Jeon Ga-Eul, Kim Soo-Yun, Kwon Hah-Nul, Lee Sea-Eun, Kwon Eun-Som.
Forwards: Yeo Min-Ji, Ji So-Yun, Park Hee-Young, Yoo Young-A.

After a disappointing finish in the Asian Cup, Korea redeemed themselves in the Peace Cup, managing a win and two ties against three World Cup bound teams. They followed that with a strong third place finish at the Asian Games, losing only to Korea DPR.

Two things about this team…they are improving and they are young….very, very young. Seventeen of the 22 players they are sending to the Cyprus Cup are 22 years old or younger. They have only one player on their roster that is older than 26, that being Yu Ji-Eun. The future looks very bright for this team.

While Park Hee-Young is their leading scorer, Ji So-Yun and Yoo Young-A have been lighting up the scoreboard lately. Ji, who just turned 20, has been quite the sensation. She scored five goals in the Asian Games, including a hat trick against Jordan.

Korea boasts a talented group of young midfielders in Jeon Ga-Eul, Kim Soo-Yun, and Kwon Hah-Nul. They are led on defense by their most experienced player, Yu Ji-Eun, and Lee Eun-Mi, who has 11 goals in just 31 international matches. Goalkeeping duties belong to Jun Min-Kyung. This team should be one of the most exciting teams to watch at the Cyprus Cup.