High Press Pod Episode 15: European Transfers Heating Up
With the European summer transfer market finally heating up, it’s time to evaluate some of the latest deals on the High Press Pod.
Joining Chops is contributing writer Tyler Everett. Discussed deals include:
- Kieran Trippier to Atlético Madrid and if he’s a good fit for Diego Simeone?
- Matthijs de Ligt to Juventus and does this get them over the Champions League hump?
- Sebastien Haller to West Ham and does this get them into the top 6? (and why didn’t Liverpool buy him???)
Who Will Win the NWSL: Title Odds
The spotlight is on the NWSL.
With games airing on ESPN (and a thriller 4-3 debut between the Portland Thorns and Orlando Pride), it’s a good time to take a look at NWSL title odds.
NWSL Table
Let’s look at the current standings before listing the odds. The NWSL table as of 07/16/19 is:
| Club | Points | Goal Differential |
| NC Courage | 22 | +14 |
| Portland Thorns | 22 | +7 |
| Seattle Reign | 20 | +1 |
| Washington Spirit | 18 | +6 |
| Utah Royals | 17 | 0 |
| Chicago Red Stars | 17 | 0 |
| Houston Dash | 13 | -6 |
| Orlando Pride | 8 | -18 |
| Sky Blue | 8 | -6 |
For a refresher, read what NWSL club Women’s World Cup stars play on.
NWSL Title Odds
Here are the NWSL title odds as of 07/16/19. We’ll update the odds as the season progresses.
For those unfamiliar, read how to bet soccer.
| NC Courage +175 | Portland Thorns +250 | Seattle Reign +400 |
| Washington Spirit +700 | Utah Royals +750 | Chicago Red Stars +1400 |
| Chicago Red Stars +2000 | Orlando Pride +10000 | Sky Blue FC +10000 |
Best USWNT New York Victory Parade Pictures
The USWNT aren’t the life of the party right now…they are the party.
The team celebrated their 2019 Women’s World Cup win today with an estimated 1M New Yorkers. With some clear pre-noon drinking going on, they’d put many college spring breakers to shame.
It’s a big day for the team: they fly straight from the victory parade in New York to the ESPYs in LA. It’ll be fun to see what kind of shape they’re in tonight.
Here’s some of the best victory parade pictures we can find. We’ll upload more as the day goes on.
USWNT victory parade pictures
US Soccer President Carlos Cordeiro on USWNT Equal Pay: “We Can Get This Done”
The party kept rolling for the USWNT today during a victory parade in New York City.
The team was clearly in high spirits and enjoying the moment. A reported 1 million people showed up to support the team.
Once the team arrived at City Hall, chants of “equal pay” rang out.
There, at the steps of City Hall, USSF President Carlos Cordeiro addressed the elephant in the room:
“We believe all female athletes deserve fair and equitable pay. [We believe] together we can get this done.”
– USSF President Carlos Cordeiro
With Cordeiro throwing it out there, he’s put himself in a spot with little wiggle room.
Rapinoe addresses the issue
US star Megan Rapinoe, possibly a little bit inebriated, closed the rally.
After giving shout outs to everyone involved in the USWNT program, she addressed Cordeiro’s comments:
“I think he’ll make things right…He’s with us…We look forward to holding those feet to the fire.”
– Megan Rapinoe on Cordeiro’s equal pay comments
Let’s see how this plays out.
The Best Pictures of the USWNT Winning the World Cup (Photo Gallery)
Time to wrap the 2019 Women’s World Cup. What better way to bring coverage to a close than with a photo dump of then best pictures we could find of the USWNT celebrating their win.
A few notes:
- Julie Ertz is draped in an American flag and playing air guitar on the World Cup trophy? How badass is she?
- That plane ride home looks fun.
- Great photo of Kelley O’Hara sitting down and soaking it all the years of hard work.
- Jessica McDonald and her son ❤
USWNT celebrating World Cup photos
High Press Pod Episode 14: A Tale of Two National Teams
What a week of soccer!
The latest High Press Pod discusses the USWNT historic World Cup run as well as the state of the USMNT after their Gold Cup performance.
How far ahead are the USWNT from the rest of the world? And how far behind are the men? Give it a listen.
Listen to “High Press Pod Episode 14: A Tale of Two National Teams” on Spreaker.2019-20 Premier League Matchday 1 Odds
The 2019-20 Premier League schedule kicks off one month from today!
With that in mind, let’s take a look at matchday 1 betting odds.
Premier League Matchday 1 Odds
For a refresher, read how to bet soccer or how to bet Premier League. Home team is listed first.
| Friday, Aug 09, 3pm ET | Liverpool -670 | Draw +700 | Norwich City +1900 |
| Saturday, Aug 10, 7:30am ET | West Ham +900 | Draw +480 | Manchester City -345 |
| Saturday, Aug 10, 10am ET | Bournemouth -112 | Draw +275 | Sheffield United +295 |
| Saturday, Aug 10, 10am ET | Burnley +160 | Draw +225 | Southampton +285 |
| Saturday, Aug 10, 10am ET | Crystal Palace +170 | Draw +225 | Everton +175 |
| Saturday, Aug 10, 10am ET | Leicester +135 | Draw +225 | Wolves +220 |
| Saturday, Aug 10, 10am ET | Watford -110 | Draw +235 | Brighton +340 |
| Saturday, Aug 10, 12:30pm ET | Tottenham -385 | Draw +460 | Aston Villa +1200 |
| Sunday, Aug 11, 9am ET | Newcastle +265 | Draw +265 | Arsenal +100 |
| Sunday, Aug 11, 11:30am ET | Manchester United +125 | Draw +230 | Chelsea +230 |
Odds & Ends
Note, this post was written on July 09, 2019. There are still summer transfers to come that may impact these lines. We’ll update this portion of the article closer towards matchday 1.
- Champions League winner Liverpool ushers in the new season at home against promoted Norwich City. With the game at Anfield, they’re the heaviest favorite of the week. The 3-0 correct score prop bet (+525) and 4-0 (+750) are worth looking at more closely.
- The next couple of bullets have the caveat of “let’s see how transfers impact these lines,” but we’re high on teams looking to punch through the Big 6 this season. So Everton (+175) as the slightest of underdogs away at Palace is interesting.
- Same for Wolves (+220) at Leicester City.
- Southampton feels like a mid-table team this campaign. That +285 away against Burnley is appealing.
- This may change depending on the manager selection but Newcastle at home (+265) could catch an Arsenal squad (+100) that is potentially on the decline.
USMNT Has the Heart, not the Talent to Overcome Mexico in Gold Cup Final
Today was a contrast of United States national soccer programs.
In France, the USWNT won back-to-back World Cup titles, defeating Netherlands 2-0. The game was a testament to the absurd wealth of talent the USWNT program has at its disposal. Yes, they play with heart and unmatched charisma. At the end of the day though, they just have better players than everyone else.
That’s not necessarily the case with the USMNT.
As discussed in our preview post of the Gold Cup Final against Mexico, some think El Tri have a positional advantage at each line-up spot over the Americans.
At a minimum, Christian Pulisc showed that’s definitely not the case tonight. However, despite a spirited and gutty effort, the USMNT simply couldn’t overcome the talent disparity against Mexico, losing the Gold Cup Final 1-0.
Both teams had big chances early
This game saw both sides create big chances early on.
Christian Pulisic, who often looked like the best player on the field, and Jonathan dos Santos both had near misses in the opening minutes.
Jozy Altidore, who earned the start over beleaguered striker Gyasi Zardes, will rue a missed opportunity in the 8th minute. Altidore received a headed pass from Paul Arriola that left him with a clear shot to put the US ahead. He muffed it off his right foot, sending the shot wide.
Almost immediately thereafter, Raúl Jiménez’s header was denied by US keeper Zack Steffen.
VERY physical, open, hyper-charged play continued until the half. The US and Mexico went into the tunnels tied 0-0.
Scoring opportunities continued, Mexico converted one of theirs
The second verse was same as the first, as both sides came out physical.
Mexico was lucky not to earn a red card, as Jozy Altidore was cheap-shotted in the 47th minute.
Temperatures are rising at Soldier Field! 😬 #GoldCup2019 pic.twitter.com/uFYFRb6QO1
— FOX Soccer (@FOXSoccer) July 8, 2019
Big scoring chances continued as well. The US almost took the lead in the 51st minute. Christian Pulisic delivered a corner that Jordan Morris headed from close range. Morris beat Mexico goalkeeper Guillermo Ochoa, but Jesus Guardado was perfectly positioned to head the ball away before it crossed the line. It was a brilliant and ultimately game-changing block.
What a save by Guardado! 😱
— FOX Soccer (@FOXSoccer) July 8, 2019
Ochoa is beat by the header but El Principito is there to head it off the line! #GoldCup2019 pic.twitter.com/8P4ox6h1AR
Mexico broke through in the 79th minute as Jonathan dos Santos finished a dirty little flick from Jiménez.
WHAT A GOAL! QUE GOLAZO! 🔥🔥🔥
— FOX Soccer (@FOXSoccer) July 8, 2019
Jonathan dos Santos finishes off a beautiful team goal to give Mexico the lead late in this #GoldCup2019 final 🇲🇽 pic.twitter.com/gr18Y5GDok
The US dug in and fought to create more chances until the very end. Ultimately, the dos Santos goal was the difference in the game.
USMNT can build on this
Two things were clear from this match:
- The US doesn’t have the quality of talent to match Mexico just yet. Outside of Pulisic and Weston McKennie, there’s a striking talent and tactical disparity.
- However, if they can play with this level of intensity moving forward, they will gut out some surprising wins.
This is not a game the US should leave discouraged. They fought hard and were a bit unlucky not to convert. It was their best overall display of the tournament, even though it ended in a loss.
The US can — and should — build on this.
Bradley Wright-Phillips Delivers Stoppage Time Goal as New York Red Bulls Draw Atlanta United 3-3
Bradley Wright-Phillips took advantage of an(other) Atlanta United defensive breakdown in the 93rd minute, helping the New York Red Bulls secure a road point with a 3-3 draw.
With the exception of a thrilling final five minutes that also saw Josef Martinez put Atlanta ahead in the 91st, this was a sloppy, physical, frustrating mess of a game.
Atlanta starts fast then disappears
The home team started strong, controlling possession and the overall tempo of the game. Playing on their front foot, Atlanta got on the board first after Pity Martinez threaded a perfect ball to Justin Meram, which he neatly tucked away past Luis Robles.
Atlanta slowed the pace down but looked in control until the 29th minute. Then center-back Florentin Pogba — who had looked among the best on the pitch up until that point — went out with an injury. The entire tone of the game quickly changed.
New York leveled the game eight minutes after Pogba’s departure as Daniel Royer capitalized on poor Atlanta defending to knock a left-footed shot into the top corner past Brad Guzan. The game went to half-time tied 1-1.
New York takes over in the second half
Whether it was the Red Bulls stepping up their game or Atlanta simply looking disorganized and disinterested, New York took command in the second half.
The Red Bulls took a 2-1 lead in the 60th minute when Brian White was left unchecked by a sloppy Atlanta defensive, easily burying a feed from Alex Muyl.
Another Pity-ful performance
Just as Pogba’s injury departure changed the game, so did a timely substitution in the 63rd minute by Atlanta coach Frank de Boer.
The micro Pity Martinez Experience is the perfect encapsulation of the macro experience of this game in general. Pity is capable of fleeting moments of brilliance, like his pass to Meram leading to the opener.
Mostly though, he’s sloppy, careless, lackadaisical and temperamental. He’s a frustrating and miserable player to watch.
Fortunately for Atlanta fans in Mercedes-Benz Stadium, they didn’t have to deal with the Pity Martinez Experience past the 63rd minute. He was subbed off to absolutely no pattering of applause as Brandon Vázquez took his place.
Atlanta looked immediately improved.
They broke through in the 79th minute, as Josef Martinez drew a penalty in the box. Moments later, he leveled the game from the spot 2-2.
Five minutes of fury
Even in more turnover prone and careless stretches of play, the game had been chippy and physical throughout.
Everything amped up the final five minutes in stoppage time.
Josef Martinez netted a brace in the 91st minute, heading home a goal to give Atlanta a 3-2 lead.
Just two minutes later, BWP, who subbed on in the 77th minute for Brian White, tied the game 3-3 when Atlanta forgot the general concepts of defending yet again.
The Atlanta crowd went utterly silent at that point.
The players, however, did not.
The chippy play that had been building all game reached a boiling point in the 95th minute. A couple of on-field scrums nearly broke out, and the refs just decided to end the game, leaving the home crowd stunned.
Megan Rapinoe Penalty, Rose Lavelle Rocket Delivers USWNT Back-to-Back World Cup Titles
In Megan Rapinoe We Trust.
And VAR.
And Rose Freaking Lavelle.
Overcoming an elite performance from Netherlands goalkeeper Sari van Veenendaal, the USWNT won back-to-back World Cup titles.
But claiming the 2019 Women’s World Cup title wasn’t easy.
Scoreless first half as van Veenendaal comes up big
The US had opportunities to get on the board in the first half, but we’re denied time and time again by van Veenendaal.
Van Veenendaal is putting on a show! 🇳🇱
— FOX Soccer (@FOXSoccer) July 7, 2019
The Netherlands goalkeeper makes another fine save on Morgan, and this #FIFAWWC final is goalless going into halftime. pic.twitter.com/5DDVyVjZQH
In all, van Veenendaal made four on target saves, many of which were revandedonkulous.
The US controlled possession and outshot the Netherlands, but couldn’t breakthrough in a physical, scrappy half.
Rapinoe, Lavelle bring the title home
The game was all square until VAR reared its ugly head again in the second half.
In the 58th minute, Stafanie van de Gragt high kicked Alex Morgan in the box. The US was lining up to take a corner, but the ref was called to check on VAR. After review, a penalty was awarded.
Up stepped Megan Rapinoe.
Rapinoe cooly waited for van Veenendaal to show then slid the ball in the opposite direction, giving the US a 1-0 lead in the 61st minute.
It was Rapinoe’s third penalty conversion of the tournament and 50th international goal. At 34, she became the oldest player to score in Women’s World Cup history.
NERVES OF STEEL 💪🇺🇸
— FOX Soccer (@FOXSoccer) July 7, 2019
Megan Rapinoe scores her 50th international goal from the penalty spot and gives USA the lead in the #FIFAWWC final! pic.twitter.com/gjPpYOrcyl
The US went on the attack from there.
In the 69th minute, Rose Lavelle drove the ball from halfway unchallenged and fired a rocket to put the US up 2-0 and the game out of reach.
ROSE. LAVELLE. 🌹🇺🇸
— FOX Soccer (@FOXSoccer) July 7, 2019
A beautiful solo effort doubles the @USWNT's lead in the #FIFAWWC final! pic.twitter.com/ToznvQiuxb
As the US is expert at doing, they bled the clock out to secure the win. Coach Jill Ellis was able to Carli Lloyd on the field at the end, giving the US legend an appearance in each game this World Cup.
Back-to-back and four in all
The win gives the US back-to-back World Cup titles and four in all. The four titles are two more than Germany.
Rapinoe secured the Golden Boot for the tournament and player of the match honors for the championship. She was also awarded the Golden Ball for the tournament.
2019 Women’s World Cup Final: USWNT vs Netherlands Odds, Game Time and Probabilities (UPDATED)
The 2019 Women’s World Cup final is set!
The USWNT defeated England 2-1 in a thriller on Tuesday to advance.
After 120+ opposite-of-thrilling minutes, the Netherlands topped Sweden 1-0 on Wednesday to punch their ticket to the finals.
This is the 8th time the US will face the Netherlands internationally. The Orange Army reach their first ever World Cup final in only their second ever tournament appearance.
Here’s what you need to know heading into the final game of this year’s World cup.
Women’s World Cup Finals Game Time
The 2019 Women’s World Cup final will take place between the US and Netherlands on Sunday, July 7th at 11am ET.
In the US, the game will air on FOX.
Women’s World Cup Finals Odds
For a refresher, read how to bet soccer.
Most of the money is coming in on the US to win the game. They’ve moved from -400 to -435. Netherlands has gone longer from +300 to +320.
Title futures though are as follows:
| USA -435 | Netherlands +320 |
Women’s World Cup Finals Probabilities
FiveThirtyEight gives the US a 66% chance to repeat as champs.
Third Place Match
England will play Sweden for third place on Saturday the 6th at 11am ET. The game will be aired on FOX.
High Press Pod Episode 13: The USWNT Advance to the World Cup Final and Way Too Much Discussion About Tanguy Ndomele
New High Press Pod is up!
Joining Chops again is site contributor Tyler Everett. This one is pretty straight-forward. The first half is a full-on discussion about the USWNT’s 2-1 win over England and their chances to repeat as World Cup champs.
The second half is a way too lengthy discussion about Tottenham record-transfer Tanguy Ndomele.
Listen to “High Press Pod Episode 13: The USWNT Advance to the World Cup Final and Way Too Much Discussion About Tanguy Ndomele” on Spreaker.USWNT Defeat England 2-1 in a Thriller
What. A. Game.
England heard for days how the USWNT vs France was “the real World Cup final.”
The Lionesses heard those pundits and said, “Hold my Guinness.”
In an open, physical, controversial thriller, the USWNT defeated England 2-1. The win sends the US to the 2019 Women’s World Cup final.
Press starts for Rapinoe, makes her presence felt early
The pre-match shocker was Christen Press getting the start over Megan Rapinoe.
While early reports indicated that Rapinoe was not injured, she didn’t warm up with the team and didn’t sub in. It later came out that she was nursing a possible hamstring injury.
The pressure was on Press to deliver, and she wasted no time. In the 10th minute, Kelley O’Hara delivered a beautiful service to Press who buried home a header, giving the US a 1-0 lead.
CHRISTEN PRESS! 🇺🇸🇺🇸
— FOX Soccer (@FOXSoccer) July 2, 2019
No Rapinoe, no problem! The USWNT takes the early lead again and has now scored in the first 15 minutes in every single game this #FIFAWWC pic.twitter.com/Xqu3u0m56V
England wasted little time to respond. Ellen White leveled the game in the 19th minute. The goal was her sixth of the tournament, giving her the Golden Boot lead over Alex Morgan.
What a goal!
— FOX Soccer (@FOXSoccer) July 2, 2019
Ellen White takes the lead in the Golden Boot race with her 6th goal of the #FIFAWWC. Great cross from Mead, clinical finish from White. 1-1! pic.twitter.com/U5GoaxbIRv
With the game all square at 1-1 in the 31st minute, Morgan reclaimed the Golden Boot lead. Press found Lindsey Horan who delivered a laser perfect pass to Morgan’s head. Morgan became the first player to score a goal on her birthday (30th) in Women’s World Cup history.
Alex Morgan scores her first goal since the opening game and retakes the lead in the Golden Boot race (6 goals, 3 assists)
— FOX Soccer (@FOXSoccer) July 2, 2019
She's the first player in #FIFAWWC history to score on her birthday 🎂 pic.twitter.com/EGWBNIyaxI
Scrappy and controversial second half
The intensity leveled up in the second half, as both squads got scrappy.
The intense play was over-shadowed by more frustrating VAR controversy.
First, Ellen White’s second goal of the game was called back on an inexplicable VAR off-side ruling.
OFFSIDE!
— FOX Soccer (@FOXSoccer) July 2, 2019
VAR rules out what would have been Ellen White's second goal and second equalizer of the game! #FIFAWWC pic.twitter.com/a1aCGeas4R
Then White was awarded a penalty in the box off a phantom contact call. It felt almost like a make-good by the ref.
PENALTY TO ENGLAND!
— FOX Soccer (@FOXSoccer) July 2, 2019
Ellen White couldn't get a foot on Stokes' cross, VAR took a look, and a penalty is called on Sauerbrunn! #FIFAWWC pic.twitter.com/I7kqxCMLeW
England has struggled on penalties all tournament. Once again, the penalty opportunity was all for naught as US keeper Alyssa Naeher saved Steph Houghton’s shot from the spot. This was England’s third pk miss of the World Cup, the first time that’s happened.
NAEHER SAVES!!!!!!!!!! pic.twitter.com/h4JqFFLylY
— FOX Soccer (@FOXSoccer) July 2, 2019
The save secured the US’ victory, moving them into the World Cup finals. They await the winner of Netherlands vs Sweden on Wednesday.
Updated title odds
Having now vanquished FIFA’s #2 (France) and #3 (England) teams, the US are heavy favorites to repeat as World Cup champs. The latest odds:
- USA -455
- Netherlands +600
- Sweden +900
2019 Women’s World Cup Semifinals: USWNT vs England, Netherlands vs Sweden Odds and Game Times
The 2019 Women’s World Cup semifinals are set.
One side of the bracket went as expected as top-seeded USWNT face off against FIFA #3 England.
The other half of the bracket had more volatility.
We identified the Netherlands (FIFA #7) as a darkhorse candidate to reach the finals at the start of knockout round play, and that’s a strong possibility now. They defeated Japan (FIFA #7) in the Round of 16. They caught a break by getting Italy (FIFA #15) instead of Australia (FIFA #6) in the quarters.
Now, they’ll face a surprising Sweden (FIFA #9) instead of Germany (FIFA #2) in the semifinals.
Women’s World Cup Semifinal Game Times
The Women’s World Cup semifinal games take place on Tuesday, July 2nd and Wednesday, July 3rd.
- Tuesday, July 2nd at 3pm ET: USWNT vs England (FOX)
- Wednesday, July 3rd at 3pm ET: Netherlands vs Sweden (FOX)
Women’s World Cup Semifinal Odds
The latest odds for the Women’s World Cup semifinals at DraftKings Sportsbook are:
| England +330 | Draw +225 | USA -112 |
| Netherlands TBD | Draw TBD | Sweden TBD |
These should both be close, competitive match-ups. FiveThirtyEight has more favorable probabilities of the US winning than oddsmakers, and Netherlands vs Sweden as a virtual coin-flip:
Women’s World Cup Title Odds
Visit: 2019 Women’s World Cup title odds for updated pricing.
At the completion of the quarterfinal games, title futures are:
- USA – 120
- England +380
- Netherlands +450
- Sweden +650
Women’s World Cup Title Probabilities
Over at FiveThirtyEight, the US are essentially 50/50 to win the World Cup now. If England were to pull an upset in the semis, they’d be prohibitive favorites against Netherlands or Sweden.
2019 Women’s World Cup Title Odds (UPDATED)
UPDATE: The following post will be updated after each round of games throughout the tournament.
The 2019 FIFA Women’s World Cup takes place June 07 – July 07 in France.
Defending champs and top overall seed the USWNT are part of a 24-team field. They’ll face strong competition from perennial contenders Germany, France, and Japan, as well as surging England.
Chile, Jamaica, Scotland, and South Africa are made their World Cup debuts.
The knockout round stage of the World Cup begins Saturday, June 22nd. Here are updated odds and props for the tournament.
Women’s World Cup Title Odds
07/07/19 Update: After the USWNT defeated France and England, the Americans find themselves as heavy favorites to win.
Sweden’s surprise upset of Germany boosted the Netherlands’ odds the most. They originally jumped from +900 to +450. However, after the US defeated England, the Netherlands fell back to +600.
Here are odds for the consensus title contenders. If you’re unfamiliar with soccer betting, read our how to bet soccer.
 |  |
 |  Eliminated |
2019 Women’s World Cup Prop Bets
With England (and Ellen White) eliminated, the Golden Boot is all Alex Morgan’s to lose. Golden Boot odds are:
- Alex Morgan -250
- Megan Rapinoe +650
- Vivianne Miedema +6000
- Stina Blackstenius +25000
It would take a herculean effort for Miedema to capture the Golden Boot, as she’s at 3 goals. However, $10 at +6000 is worth a flier.
Megan Rapinoe Scores Twice as USWNT Advance to World Cup Semifinal
So much for Megan Rapinoe’s war of words with President Donald Trump being a distraction.
The USWNT defeated France 2-1 Friday as Megan Rapinoe netted another brace sending the Americans to the 2019 Women’s World Cup semifinal.
Rapinoe has scored four straight goals for the USWNT, the first time that’s happened in the squad’s history. She’s also the first women’s national player to ever score two goals in consecutive World Cup knockout games.
Rapinoe delivers bigly again
The US got off to yet another fast start in this one.
In the fifth minute, Rapinoe converted a free kick (thanks in part to a great shield and leave by Julie Ertz) to give the US a 1-0 lead.
DREAM START FOR THE USA! 🇺🇸@mpinoe's free kick gets past everyone as the @USWNT takes an early lead once again! #FIFAWWC pic.twitter.com/K5oHYnCyvD
— FOX Soccer (@FOXSoccer) June 28, 2019
Both teams created a number of opportunities but neither could break through.
That changed and escalated quickly beginning in the 65th minute.
Tobin Heath drove forward and found Rapinoe on a cross, giving the US a 2-0 lead.
MORGAN ➡️ HEATH ➡️ RAPINOE
— FOX Soccer (@FOXSoccer) June 28, 2019
A wonderful team goal doubles the @USWNT's lead! #FIFAWWC 🇺🇸 pic.twitter.com/B9OGQIKzSP
Heath almost scored one of her own in the 76th minute, but it was called back after a questionable off-sides call.
France got one back on yet another Wendie Renard set piece header in the 81st minute.
GAME ON! 😳
— FOX Soccer (@FOXSoccer) June 28, 2019
Stop us if you've heard this before. Renard with the header off a set piece. France are back in it. #FIFAWWC pic.twitter.com/DGdOzfDNLZ
Both teams played on their front foot the rest of the game, but time expired with the US holding on to a 2-1 win.
With her two goals today, Rapinoe ties teammate Alex Morgan for the Golden Boot lead.
US now odds-on favorites
The US advance to the semifinals of the World Cup for the eight straight time. They’ll play England on Tuesday, July 2nd.
With the win, the US find themselves as odds-on favorites to repeat as champs. England will be the second consecutive game against the #2 favorite they’ll play. Here are the latest Women’s World Cup title odds:
| USA -120 | England +400 | Germany +420 |
| Netherlands +900 | Sweden +2100 | Italy +2300 |
Women’s World Cup Quarterfinal Daily Fantasy Picks
It’s the game everyone has been waiting for: the USWNT play France on Friday. At stake? Most likely the 2019 Women’s World Cup title.
The US and France are strong favorites to win the World Cup. Whoever advances will see their World Cup title odds spike.
With a variety of daily fantasy contests covering today and tomorrow’s quarterfinal match-ups, we’re going to take a different approach to selections in this post. The focus today will just be on players (not pricing). DraftKings has a number of different contests with varying player values. We’ll isolate and discuss players (or teams) we believe will get you points regardless of their price tag.
Women’s World Cup Quarterfinal Games
As we’ve been doing, before getting to recommended selections, we’ll review lines for each game as well as goal scoring props.
For a refresher, read up on how to bet soccer. The home team is listed first. The “-” means that team is favored.
Quarterfinal games for selection on DraftKings are:
| Friday, 3pm ET | USA +128 | Draw +225 | France +225 |
| Saturday, 9am ET | Italy +260 | Draw +215 | Netherlands +118 |
| Saturday, 12:30pm ET | Germany -134 | Draw +255 | Sweden +390 |
From an odds perspective, only Germany are what we’d consider heavy favorites to win. However, according to FiveThirtyEight probabilities, that honor should go to the Netherlands.
The Netherlands are 79% to advance. Germany (63%) and the US (54%) are slighter favorites. If you’re in a legal sportsbetting state, that +118 on the Netherlands looks like a strong play.
For daily fantasy, none of the three above games are favored to go over 2.5 goals. There are some goal scoring props though we’ll discuss in the following section.
Our WWC Quarterfinal DFS Picks
For a refresher: Typically, contests have 8 position selections. You have $50,000 to spend with a $6,250 average salary.
Given the way contests are split over the next two days, there are Showdown entries where the salary varies from Classic games.
Double-check line-ups an hour before game time for any player rotations / non-starters.
- FW: Vivianne Miedema, Netherlands. In Classic contests including today’s US vs France game, she’s only the 9th most expensive forward. However, she’s the second lowest odds (behind only Alexandra Popp) to score the first goal in her respective game.
- FW: Alexandra Popp, Germany. Speaking of Popp, Germany is the most likely team to win according to bookmakers. She’s the most likely to score. Don’t overthink this one.
- MID: Sara Däbritz, Germany. She’s been awesome. Over the last three games, she’s averaging over 20 FPPs. She’s had a goal in each of the last three, and fills up the box score even if she’s not finding the net. In Classic contests, she’s the 8th (!!!) most expensive midfielder.
- MID: Lindsey Horan and Rose Lavelle, USWNT. Neither are among the most expensive mids, and both have looked consistently like the US’ best player(s). Selecting either one is a good play.
- DEF: Magelena Eriksson, Sweden. Low cost. Gets double digit points. Will be active against Germany.
- GK: Almuth Schult, Germany. For your keeper, focus on who has the best shot at winning the game. Over the next two days, that’s Schult.
Notes:
- Alex Morgan has seen her price go down since her ridiculous five-goal out-burst against Thailand. We’ve advised staying away since then given her cost. Her price has course corrected now and she’s worth a look.
- If you like France, midfielder Amandine Henry is second on her squad in FPP. And she’s not even priced in the top 15 midfielders. An absolute must start if you think France is winning this game.
- Wendie Renard has been an every-other-game performer. After tallying zero points against Brazil, she could be in line for another double-digit showing against the US.
- Megan Rapinoe tends to show up in the biggest games. She’s always a threat when the stakes are highest.
England Rip Norway 3-0, Await Winner of USWNT vs France
England played their most complete game of the 2019 Women’s World Cup, dominating Norway 3-0.
The win puts the Lionesses into the semifinals. They await the winner of tomorrow’s match-up between the USWNT and France.
England waste no time
The Lionesses made a statement early. Just 2:07 into the game, Ellen White dummied a Lucy Bronze cross, giving Jill Scott a clean shot for the opener.
PERFECT START FOR ENGLAND! Jill Scott gives the @Lionesses the lead after a great run from Lucy Bronze. 🏴🏴🏴
— FOX Soccer (@FOXSoccer) June 27, 2019
And check out Ellen White with the perfect 'dummy' 😅 pic.twitter.com/jPwfwj9m0k
The game was never in doubt from there. The trust and teamwork displayed in that opening goal was evident throughout the match. And White and Bronze both eventually got theirs too.
In the 40th minute, Ellen White put England up 2 off of a great build-up and feed from Nikita Parris.
ELLEN WHITE MAKES IT ✌️ FOR ENGLAND
— FOX Soccer (@FOXSoccer) June 27, 2019
Nikita Parris sets her up perfectly to tap it home and make it 2-0 in the first half. #FIFAWWC pic.twitter.com/RPtcH8fi8X
The goal made White the all time leading World Cup scorer for England.
In the 57th minute, Lucy Bronze drilled a blistering strike to ice the game for England. The strike will definitely be up for the running as “Goal of the Tournament.”
LUCY BRONZE! WHAT A HIT! 🚀
— FOX Soccer (@FOXSoccer) June 27, 2019
England lead 3-0 after a perfectly executed set piece. And Beckham approves! 🏴 #FIFAWWC pic.twitter.com/HCyjmczgqH
And it could’ve been worse
England could’ve won this by 5.
Parris missed a close-range shot in the 21st minute. Ten minutes after that, Ellen White popped the post from just a few yards out.
Then in the 83rd minute, Parris missed one from the spot. It’s Parris’ second penalty miss of the World Cup. If there’s any negatives from the game, it’s that England may need to assign a new penalty taker.
PENALTY SAVE! Parris has a chance to make it 4-0 but Hjelmseth makes a great diving stop.
— FOX Soccer (@FOXSoccer) June 27, 2019
Parris is now 1/3 on penalties at this #FIFAWWC pic.twitter.com/1zj4q3gjCA
371 minutes and counting…
England has now gone 371 minutes without giving up a goal. They are certainly firing on all cylinders at the right time.
England will sit and wait to see who their semifinal opponent is. The Lionesses will draw the winner of Friday’s US vs France showdown.
England see title odds jump
With the impressive win, England sees their title odds improve from +650 to +475.
Ellen White also moves up to second favorite in the Golden Boot race. She goes to +300, trailing odds on favorite Alex Morgan (-286).
President Donald Trump Invites USWNT to White House; Megan Rapinoe: Not Going “to the f*cking White House”
Well, that escalated quickly.
Although it went almost exactly as we called it.
In an interview with The Hill two days ago, President Donald Trump said he did not agree with Megan Rapinoe’s national anthem protest. However, he spoke highly of the USWNT in an uncharacteristic, bordering on thoughtful take.
We speculated reasons as to why he would be so complimentary of them. The #1 reason? They’re winners.
We also closed by saying the most likely scenario moving forward would be a tweet storm by Trump walking back all of his compliments.
Trump’s USWNT Tweet Storm
So…
Rapinoe gives in interview in response to Trump saying she absolutely would not go to “the fucking White House.”
Trump being Trump extends an invitation to the White House. Then, well…
Trump’s tiny hands pounded out a Twitter storm on the USWNT. His focus, obviously, is on their need to win. And Criminal Justice Reform. And the poverty index. Obv.
Women’s soccer player, @mPinoe, just stated that she is “not going to the F…ing White House if we win.” Other than the NBA, which now refuses to call owners, owners (please explain that I just got Criminal Justice Reform passed, Black unemployment is at the lowest level…
— Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) June 26, 2019
….in our Country’s history, and the poverty index is also best number EVER), leagues and teams love coming to the White House. I am a big fan of the American Team, and Women’s Soccer, but Megan should WIN first before she TALKS! Finish the job! We haven’t yet….
— Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) June 26, 2019
….invited Megan or the team, but I am now inviting the TEAM, win or lose. Megan should never disrespect our Country, the White House, or our Flag, especially since so much has been done for her & the team. Be proud of the Flag that you wear. The USA is doing GREAT!
— Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) June 26, 2019
🤦♂️🤦♂️🤦♂️
There’s a lot to unpack there. Just note that telling Rapinoe she needs to win before she talks is an interesting strategy since she’s one of the most decorated winners in US soccer history.
Where this will likely go from here…
This is all so predictable. It will go one of two ways:
- The US lose to France on Friday (or England or Germany in later rounds) and Trump rubs it in their face.
- The USWNT win, refuse to visit the White House, and Trump makes some sort of gender degrading comments about them.
Also, 🤦♂️.
2019 Women’s World Cup Quarterfinal Bracket: Odds & Game Times
The 2019 Women’s World Cup quarterfinal bracket is set.
Italy put on a impressive display to defeat China 2-0 today. Norway topped China 2-1 on two Lieke Martens goals. China was the better team overall, but thanks to a handball in the box, Norway came away with a 90th minute winner:
MARTENS SCORES FROM THE SPOT!
— FOX Soccer (@FOXSoccer) June 25, 2019
Is that the game-winner for the Netherlands? Martens gets her brace after a handball penalty is called and upheld by VAR. 2-1! #FIFAWWC pic.twitter.com/KYF4trKyX9
Here’s a look at the quarterfinal bracket, odds, and probabilities.
Women’s World Cup Quarterfinal Bracket
For the first time in Women’s World Cup history, no Asian teams advanced to the quarters. The field is dominated by European countries. Of the 8 teams in the quarterfinals SEVEN (!!!) come from Europe.
Credit to European nations for investing in the growth of women’s soccer.
Women’s World Cup Quarterfinal Match-Ups and Times
- Thursday, June 27th 3pm ET: Norway vs England on FOX
- Friday, June 28th 3pm ET: France vs USA on FOX
- Saturday, June 29th 9am ET: Italy vs Netherlands on FS1
- Saturday, June 39th, 12:30pm ET: Germany vs Sweden on FOX
Women’s World Cup Quarterfinal Odds
Here are the quarterfinal odds and probabilities for each match.
| Norway +260 | Draw +240 | England +108 |
| France +225 | Draw +225 | USA +128 |
| Germany -134 | Draw +225 | Sweden +390 |
| Italy +340 | Draw +245 | Netherlands -118 |
The only odds-on favorites to advance are the Netherlands and Germany.
Women’s World Cup Title Odds
Heading into the quarterfinals, only the Netherlands have seen their title odds jump. Drawing Italy for the quarterfinals, the Netherlands have gone from +1200 to +900 in the past 24 hours.
| USA +150 | France +350 | Germany +500 | England +750 |
| Netherlands +900 | Sweden +1900 | Norway +2300 | Italy +2500 |
Women’s World Cup Probabilities
The USWNT are still seen as probability favorites on FiveThirtyEigtht. Like with betting odds (and in spite of arguably a lucky win against China), the Netherlands have seen the biggest jump, leap-frogging England as the 4th favorite.
