The contenders for final victory will definitely not have it easy during these first two days of the World Cup. After Norway’s surprise defeat against New Zealand and Australia’s narrow victory against Ireland on Thursday, Canada lost potentially valuable points on Friday (July 21) in its first match of the competition. No problem for Switzerland and even less for Spain, which is particularly attractive.

Spain out of category for Costa Rica

La Roja imposes it. The Spanish selection made short work of Costa Rica (3-0) for the last match of the day, delivering the most accomplished collective performance of these first two days of the World Cup. The modest Costa Ricans, present for the second time at this level, tried to defend very low to block access to their goal. But Spain made its offensive strike force speak for itself (45 strikes) and the talent of players like Aitana Bonmati or Salma Paralluelo, sparkling. The affair was resolved in six minutes flat with three goals between the 21st and 27th minutes of play.

The score could have been much heavier without a good performance from goalkeeper Daniela Solera in the Costa Rican goal. Spain ideally launches Group C before the match between Zambia and Japan on Saturday, to follow France 3 and France.tv.

Successful debut for Switzerland

In a similar match, Switzerland also showed logic. Facing a Philippines team which mainly tried not to concede too many goals, the Nati won 2-0. Controlling the first 45 minutes despite numerous chances, the Swiss team forced the decision with the help of VAR and a penalty converted by PSG’s Ramona Bachmann. Seraina Piubel confirmed the Swiss domination and put it aside in the second half (64th). With New Zealand’s unexpected victory over Norway on Thursday, the Swiss did not miss the opportunity to regain the lead of Group A in the battle for the round of 16.

The frustrated Canadian Olympic champion

Canada missed such an opportunity. Reigning Olympic champions after being crowned in Tokyo, the Canadians could not do better than a draw against Nigeria (0-0) in Melbourne. If they were almost never put in danger, they were hardly more convincing in front of the opposing goal. And Christine Sinclair, top scorer in the history of the national team, missed the opportunity to sign a 191st feat by seeing her penalty refused by Super Falcons and Paris FC goalkeeper Chiamaka Nnadozie.

Team Canada burned a wild card for the first two qualifying places for the round of 16, following Australia’s victory against Ireland (1-0) on Thursday. The Olympic champions could need to qualify for a “final” in the third group match against the Australians, who should reinstate their leader Sam Kerr for this meeting.