Women’s World Cup Group E Preview

Netherlands - Women's World Cup 2023
Photo by Icon Sport

As the anticipation builds for the upcoming FIFA Women's World Cup, Group E emerges as a battleground of contrasting fortunes, where established powerhouses collide with spirited underdogs. Defending champions United States and 2019 finalists Netherlands dominate this group, while Portugal and Vietnam seek to make their mark on the grandest stage of women's football.

With a mix of seasoned veterans and rising talents, Group E promises thrilling encounters and a captivating display of skill, determination, and footballing prowess. Let's delve into the detailed preview of each team, their history, and what to expect from this enthralling group.

Who is in Group E?

The four teams in Group E are:

  • United States
  • Vietnam
  • Netherlands
  • Portugal

What are the Group E fixtures?

  • 22/07/2023 – United States vs Vietnam
  • 22/07/2023 – Netherlands vs Portugal
  • 27/07/2023 – United States vs Netherlands
  • 27/07/2023 – Portugal vs Vietnam
  • 01/08/2023 – Portugal vs United States
  • 01/08/2023 – Vietnam vs Netherlands

2023 World Cup Group E preview

Ranked number one in the world, the United States enters the tournament as defending champions, having lifted the trophy in 2015 and 2019. Their storied history in women's football includes dominance at the international level, boasting a formidable lineup of talented players.

Despite undergoing a transition phase, the United States remains a formidable force, blending experience with emerging stars. With a relentless attacking style and unparalleled depth, they will be determined to continue their reign as the team to beat. They will be pitted alongside the Netherlands, runners-up in the 2019 edition.

The Dutch enter the tournament seeking redemption and vying to dethrone the United States. Building on their impressive rise in recent years, they possess a rich footballing heritage and a squad filled with technically gifted players. Known for their attacking prowess and tactical astuteness, they will be eager to avenge their loss in the previous final and claim their maiden World Cup title.

While the US and the Netherlands are established powerhouses, Portugal are making their tournament debut, representing a new era of growth and development in women's football. While they may lack the international pedigree of their group rivals, the likes of Ana Capeta and Andreia Jacinto bring a passionate and determined spirit to the field.

Vietnam are the debutant in the tournament and carry the hopes and dreams of a nation passionate about football. While they face a daunting task against strong opponents, their tenacity and fighting spirit cannot be underestimated. They have shown progress in their domestic women's league, and this World Cup presents a chance to display their growth and resilience against higher-ranked teams.

Group E odds

  • United States to win Group A – 1/4 (1.25)
  • Netherlands to win Group A – 5/2 (3.50)
  • Portugal to win Group A – 50/1 (51.00)
  • Vietnam to win Group A – 500/1 (501.00)

Group E prediction

Group E promises an intriguing blend of established footballing powers and rising challengers, each with their own story to tell. The United States and the Netherlands bring a history of success and competitiveness, while Portugal and Vietnam seek to leave a lasting impression and defy expectations.

As the world watches, Group E is poised to deliver exhilarating matches, showcasing the beauty and diversity of women's football. With pride and glory at stake, this group embodies the essence of the Women's World Cup – a celebration of talent, passion, and the enduring spirit of the game.

Even without Mega Rapione leading their ranks, the USWNT are favourites and with good reason. They are the defending champions and should not have much bother to get past the likes of Portugal and Vietnam. The Dutch women can cause them problems and it is here that the fate of the group will be decided. Based on the gulf between the two, we are backing the Americans to claim pole position with the Netherlands being the other team to get out of the group.

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