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It's the final set of opening games in the Women's World Cup, and there are still some big stars that haven't graced the field in Canada just yet. The first game of the day is likely going to be the best, as old enemies France and England renew hostilities in Moncton. The French were basically unplayable in qualifying, but England will be looking for revenge after Les Bleus knocked them out in the 2011 quarterfinals. Still, you can't help but think Louisa Necib and the wide range of attacking talent around her have a big advantage.
Speaking of attacking midfielders whose side are heavy favorites, Vero Boquete and Spain should have no issues with Costa Rica in the second match. Both teams are making their WWC debuts, but the Spanish squad is far more deep (Costa Rica, for example, has brought 15 year old Gloriana Villalobos along for the ride). Kicking off at the same time, Colombia and Mexico don't have the skill that Spain can call on, but their game may be the better one to watch as it's kinda-sorta a win-or-go-home contest. Both sides will see this as their clearest shot at three points, and it's hard to get to the knockout round without a win at some point.
Finally, Brazil - they have Marta, you know - will take on the same South Korean side that held the USWNT to a 0-0 draw last week. Brazil might not be quite the juggernaut they used to be, but they should still be up to the challenge of breaking down an organized Korean side.
France vs. England
Kickoff time: 1:00pm EST
TV/Streaming: Fox, Fox Soccer 2Go, NBC Deportes En Vivo Extra
Venue: Moncton Stadium (Moncton)
Spain vs. Costa Rica
Kickoff time: 4:00pm EST
TV/Streaming: Fox Sports 1, Fox Sports Go, Fox Soccer 2Go, NBC Universo, NBC Universo Now, NBC Deportes En Vivo Extra
Venue: Stade Olympique (Montreal)
Colombia vs. Mexico
Kickoff time: 4:00pm EST
TV/Streaming: Fox, Telemundo, Fox Soccer 2Go, NBC Deportes En Vivo Extra
Venue: Moncton Stadium (Moncton)
Brazil vs. Korea Republic
Kickoff time: 7:00pm EST
TV/Streaming: Fox Sports 1, Fox Sports Go, Fox Soccer 2Go, NBC Universo, NBC Universo Now, NBC Deportes En Vivo Extra
Venue: BC Place (Vancouver)
What are you drinking?: Given the time of day of these games, probably water or maybe a cup of coffee. Sorry, it's boring I know.
As always, this is your place for pre-game, in-game, and post-game chatter.
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